New Executive Director Announced at Dubuque & Jackson County Habitat for Humanity

Exciting times are ahead for Habitat for Humanity Dubuque and Jackson Counties! On June 1st, the organization welcomed Hilary Dalton as their new Executive Director. With over a decade of nonprofit management experience, Dalton is poised to bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the role.

Dalton’s impressive background includes an MFA in arts administration from Southern Utah University, where she completed her graduate capstone internship at the National Endowment for the Arts. There, she was recognized as the Michael O. Leavitt scholar in public service. Her research on the effects of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) on the nation’s arts organizations has equipped her with unique insights. These insights will be invaluable as she steers Habitat for Humanity DJC through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) granting process.

Shortly after moving to the Tri-State region, Dalton immersed herself in the local nonprofit sector. She joined the Board of Directors of Crescent Community Health Center and, as Board vice chairman, led the 2015-2016 strategic planning process that spurred the organization’s growth and expansion. Dalton then took on the role of Crescent’s first development director, setting industry best practices and standards.

But Dalton’s dedication to service goes back even further. Growing up in a family committed to helping others, she served a full-time mission for her church in Switzerland. Locally, she’s been a vital part of the community, serving on the Housing and Community Advisory commissions, the Neighborhood Leadership Association Board, and as the Washington Neighborhood Resource Coordinator since 2017. Dalton is also a core volunteer with the Washington Neighborhood Community Garden and the Master Gardeners of Dubuque County.

The timing of Dalton’s arrival is perfect, as Habitat for Humanity Dubuque and Jackson Counties embarks on an exciting new project—their first Planned Unit Development (PUD) in the Dubuque area. This multi-phase development will feature up to sixteen new homes in the Wood Street/Mount Pleasant neighborhood. Groundbreaking for the first phase is set for August, with completion anticipated by December 2025 and the remaining phases by the end of 2026.

For those unfamiliar with Habitat for Humanity’s mission, it’s all about bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope. The organization envisions a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Despite being a Christian ministry, Habitat for Humanity is committed to a non-proselytizing policy. This means they offer assistance without any conditions related to faith, ensuring everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

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Volunteers play a crucial role in Habitat for Humanity’s work. The organization relies on volunteers to help build homes and strengthen communities. Whether you’re a first-time volunteer or a seasoned pro, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in Dubuque and Jackson Counties. The Building Committee and Construction Manager provide expert guidance and supervision on-site, ensuring that everyone, regardless of skill level, can contribute meaningfully.

“I am deeply thankful to be associated with an organization dedicated to the greater good for the greatest number of people. I am also humbled by the outpouring of support from the community for me personally, and for this historic undertaking.”

-Hilary Dalton, Executive Director Habitat For Humanity Dubuque & Jackosn Counties

With Hilary Dalton at the helm, Habitat for Humanity Dubuque and Jackson Counties is set to make significant strides in their mission to provide decent housing for all. Her leadership and experience promise to usher in a new era of growth and impact for the organization.