#USA #Denver #Build Change #Resilient Housing #Juan Caballero

Build Change Enters a New Era of Leadership

Build Change is celebrating a significant milestone—20 years of dedicated efforts in enhancing disaster-resilient housing worldwide. As part of this commemoration, the organization announces an important leadership transition that aims to strengthen its impact globally. With a renewed focus on building safer homes and fostering resilient communities, Build Change is well-positioned to tackle future challenges in housing.

Elizabeth Hausler Steps Down After 20 Years

After an incredible two-decade journey, Elizabeth Hausler, who has been the visionary founder and CEO, is stepping down from her leadership role. Under her guidance, Build Change has made substantial strides. The organization has completed projects that have helped secure the homes of countless families across various countries. Hausler has not only set ambitious goals but also successfully turned those goals into tangible results, instilling resilience into the fabric of communities most vulnerable to natural disasters.

"We owe a debt of gratitude to Elizabeth for her unwavering commitment and forward-thinking leadership during these formative years," expressed Susie Berg, a board member at Build Change. "Her vision has transformed and saved innumerable lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire future efforts in creating sustainable housing solutions."

Even as she steps aside, she’ll remain involved as a consultant through 2025, ensuring the organization continues to benefit from her expertise.

New Leadership Takes the Helm

The mantle of leadership is now passed to Juan Caballero, previously Chief of Programs at Build Change. With an impressive track record of over 12 years with the organization, Caballero is remarkably well-equipped to lead Build Change into the future. He has been instrumental in expanding Build Change's footprint into new territories like Africa and the Middle East and has been pivotal in establishing innovative financing mechanisms to empower families in the Philippines and Indonesia.

"I am honored to take on this responsibility and to continue the important work initiated by Elizabeth," Juan said. "We are entering a transformative phase, and I am eager to expand our efforts for resilient housing that stands strong against the challenges that families face around the world."

Expanding the Management Team

In addition to the CEO appointment, Build Change is also bolstering its senior management team with two new roles aimed at enhancing its operational capabilities. Manuela Pinilla Rodriguez has been promoted to Vice President of Programs for Latin America. With extensive experience in disaster risk assessment and management, Rodriguez will bring her expertise to address housing accessibility and resource allocation in the region effectively.

Jim Mellott joins the organization as Vice President of Finance and Administration. He brings over three decades of experience in financial leadership within non-profit organizations, including a significant tenure at Habitat for Humanity International. His role will ensure that Build Change can align its financial strategies with the organizational mission, facilitating growth and sustainable impact.

Two Decades of Impactful Work

Since its inception in 2004, Build Change has raised nearly $70 million and catalyzed housing investments worth hundreds of millions worldwide. The organization has positively influenced and improved the lives of over 1.4 million individuals by building new homes or retrofitting over 282,000 existing structures, proving that resilience is achievable for disaster-prone areas.

Build Change continues to push the envelope as a global leader in resilient housing systems. By equipping communities with the tools they need to thrive, the organization shifts power to families and communities, ensuring safer living conditions for generations. Interested individuals can learn more or get involved by visiting Build Change's website.