A New Leader with a Heart for Service:
Jo’Ann Montana Steps Into the Executive Director Role at Wickenburg Area Habitat for Humanity
Wickenburg Area Habitat for Humanity has a new Executive Director – and she’s someone who jumped in fast, served deeply, and now steps into leadership with a clear sense of purpose. Jo’Ann Montana, who moved to Wickenburg from Missouri in 2020, has accepted the role after years of board service and a long career dedicated to helping people build more secure futures.
Montana retired from the financial industry after 35 years, but giving back was never going to be optional. “I have served on many boards and love giving back to the community where I live and work,” she shared.
When the board president asked if she would consider leading Habitat locally, Montana said yes – a decision she describes as faith-led and mission-driven.
“I accepted, as I felt that the Lord had asked me to serve in this matter,” Montana said. “In both the banking world and Habitat’s world, I can make dreams come true and change someone’s life for the better… We are here to give a hand up and not a handout. The lives that we can impact are powerful.”
Quick Q&A with Jo’Ann Montana
What is Habitat for Humanity’s mission – and how does the ReStore support it?
Habitat’s mission is “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope,” along with the vision of “A world where everyone has a decent place to live.”
Montana added that the ReStore is a major way the community helps make that mission possible locally. “The ReStore is one revenue stream that helps us accomplish those goals. By donating or purchasing at the ReStore, the community is helping its neighbors and making the Wickenburg Area a better place for everyone.”
What are your priorities for the ReStore over the next 6–12 months?
Montana emphasized that Rodney Maxon is the Store Manager and that her role is to support the team. Looking ahead, she sees big potential – and a major need.
“The ReStore stands at a pivotal juncture,” she said. “The ReStore has outgrown the current building and I want to find another location that we can continue to grow.”
What kinds of donations are most helpful right now – and what can’t you accept?
The ReStore is currently looking for “gently used items, furniture, lawn art, lawn furniture, tools, etc.”
Items the ReStore cannot accept include: mattresses, box springs, chemicals, paint, and glass with no frames. If you’re unsure, Montana encourages donors to call first to confirm. The ReStore also offers pick-ups and deliveries.
How can local contractors, builders, or real estate agents help?
Montana hopes more contractors doing remodels will reach out before disposing of usable materials. “I would love our local contractors, who is doing a remodel, to see if we could use the cabinets or any other items we might be able to sell.”
She added that contractors and builders are “a huge help” during home builds, and real estate agents can be helpful when Habitat is looking for land or a property that may need significant renovation. If a major remodel or property opportunity is in play, she encourages professionals to connect directly.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
Volunteers are needed inside the ReStore to assist customers, stock shelves, help with pricing, and support online updates. Montana also shared there is a strong need for volunteers for repairs and construction – helping seniors, veterans, and low-income neighbors stay safely in their homes.
What’s one misconception you’d like to clear up?
Montana says one misconception is that the ReStore is expensive. “We try to keep the prices about 40% to 60% of the actual cost,” she said, noting the funds raised support Habitat programs and stay within the Wickenburg Area. Sales and specials run regularly, and feedback is welcome.
Another misconception is about Habitat homes themselves. “Everyone thinks that we give the houses to the families for free. We do not give the houses away for free,” Montana explained. Habitat provides 0% interest mortgages, but families must meet criteria, complete sweat equity hours, and attend homeownership and budgeting classes, then are asked to give back on future builds.
Thank you to Jo’Ann for taking the time to answer our questions and share more about the mission of Wickenburg Area Habitat for Humanity and the ReStore. We appreciate your heart for service and look forward to seeing the impact ahead.
Visit, Shop, Donate, or Volunteer
Wickenburg Area Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Address: 370 W Center St., Wickenburg, AZ 85390
Phone: (928) 684-2220
Email: [email protected]
Website: habitatwickenburg.org
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Closed Sunday
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