Central Valley Habitat for Humanity Names Shannon Porter as New Executive Director

Harrisonburg, VA — The Board of Directors of Central Valley Habitat for Humanity (CVHFH) is proud to announce the appointment of Shannon Porter as its next Executive Director, effective August 11, 2025. Porter brings over two decades of nonprofit and public service leadership to the role, along with a deep commitment to collaborative community building and housing justice.

“We are thrilled to welcome Shannon to Central Valley Habitat,” said Dennis Rawley, Board Chair. “He embodies the servant leadership, strategic vision, and community-minded spirit that are essential for the next chapter of our mission. His depth of experience and heartfelt commitment to creating inclusive, thriving neighborhoods make him a natural fit.”

Shannon earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Wyoming and a Master of Public Administration from the University of LaVerne (California). He also holds a post-graduate certificate in Strategic Leadership from James Madison University.

Porter has held multiple senior leadership roles in both educational and nonprofit sectors, including as Executive Director of the Valley AIDS Network and Vice President of Re-Housing and Stabilization Services at HAPHousing Inc. (now Wayfinders, Inc.) in Springfield, Massachusetts. Since 2014, he has served as Executive Director of Mercy House, a leading regional nonprofit focused on housing stability and services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Under his leadership, Mercy House expanded its housing programs and strengthened regional partnerships to promote equitable access to shelter and support.

An active leader in local governance and housing policy, Shannon serves on the Executive Committee of the Western Virginia Continuum of Care and was appointed a Commissioner on the Harrisonburg City Planning Commission in 2025. He is also the recipient of the 2020 Excellence in Public Service Award from James Madison University and the 2024 Virginia Governor’s Housing Leadership Award.

As Executive Director, Shannon will oversee the strategic and day-to-day operations of CVHFH, including project development, community engagement, financial stewardship, and team leadership. His role will be central in continuing CVHFH’s mission to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

“I am honored to join Central Valley Habitat for Humanity at a time of growth and opportunity,” said Porter. “This organization has a long-standing tradition of bringing people together to create lasting change through safe, affordable housing. I’m excited to work alongside a passionate staff, dedicated volunteers, and our incredible partner families to expand our impact across Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.”

Since 1988, Central Valley Habitat for Humanity has built more than just homes—it has built lasting partnerships, neighborhood pride, and pathways to stability for families in need. Porter’s leadership will help further the organization’s long-term vision: a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

For further information you can contact: 
Dennis Rawley, Board Chair
denniswrawley@gmail.com