Jillian Wood-Panton, Board President
Director of Marketing and Sales, PricewaterhouseCooper

“When I was exploring volunteer opportunities in Richmond, my focus was making a difference in the lives of others and working with an organization that is delivering real results. Freedom House does both. From my first experience serving a meal at the Conrad Center to my role on the board, I continue to be inspired by the passion and commitment of the staff and the life changing stories of the clients who have been helped. I'm not only able to see real results, I’m able to be part of them.”

Mark Cipolletti, Board Vice President
Mondial USA, VP of Communications USA

"Freedom House has an excellent track record of helping their clients regain their independence and break the cycle of homelessness. They treat everyone like family and are always ready to say “how can we help?” I can’t think of an organization that is more worthy of my time and treasure."

David Wade, Board Treasurer
David Wade Dominion Analytics, Consultant

“Vital to our city’s safety net, extremely inspirational clients, a dedicated and talented staff… a very rewarding and important way to serve our community”

Brandon Walter Davis, Board Secretary
Communication Specialist, WellPoint Health Management

“Freedom House has a proven track record of helping to reduce hunger and homelessness in Richmond. You need only talk to a graduate of its programs, or someone who’s benefitted from meals at the Conrad Center to see why. Freedom House is the starting point to self sufficiency. Thanks to the leadership of Melba and the commitment of the staff and board, Freedom House is serving Greater Richmond in meaningful ways that make a difference today and in the future.”

Jane Conrad
Community Volunteer

“Freedom House not only changes the lives of the homeless and individuals in crisis, but it also changes the lives of volunteers and staff.”

Lennart Freeman
CEO Swedish Match, Retired

“As the former CEO of a large international corporation, I have always focused on applying strategies that have the most cost effective solutions to today’s challenges. Freedom House’s benefits to our community not only far out weigh their costs in financial terms; they actually produce savings by reducing public corrections and social services costs. And, most importantly, they change people’s lives for the better!”

Carrie Grady
Assistant Federal Public Defender

“I support Freedom House because I believe that it is important to serve those less fortunate than I as, “but for Grace of God, there go I”.

Dick Guilmart
Retired US Army Civilian

“When you hear the sound of success in someone’s voice; whether it is from getting a job, moving into their own residence, or reuniting with loved ones, then you know in your heart that Freedom House works.”

Stephen Hayes
President & General Manager, WTVR-TV, CBS 6

“I get excited and energized as I witness members of the Freedom House staff who, as former clients, now serve as mentors, motivators and leaders for those in our community who are enduring tough times.”

Anne Hines
Owner, Thomas-Hines Antiques-Interiors

“I believe everyone deserves 3 meals a day and a warm place to live. I hope to see homelessness and lack of food in the Richmond area ended in my lifetime. I know this is probably impossible, but I want to do all I can to help achieve this goal. That is why I believe in and support Freedom House!”

Fletcher Johnson
Martin's Supermarket

Lynn Lancaster
Operations Manager, City of Richmond

Sue Ann Messmer
VCU Vice President, Retired

Ella Baker, a great human rights advocate, said “Give light and people will find the way.” It is an honor to serve on the Board of Freedom House, which has been giving light to people in crisis in Richmond for nearly 30 years.

Evan Silverstein, C.D.M.
IMPAK Marketing

"Working on the board of FREEDOM House has been very meaningful and gratifying. FREEDOM House provides housing, counseling, and support which has enabled men and women to regain their lives. As many people turn their heads away from the social issues that plague our community, it takes active leaders to address and create solutions to help people transition back to their independence. With an 83% success rate for persons staying six months or longer, I feel I have helped make a positive difference for our city."

Gary Smith
Client Services, Altria

“All of us have experienced difficulty in our lives and fortunately for most of us, a family member, friend, or colleague has been there to lift us up and help us through. For many in our community who are in crisis need, Freedom House is that face of hope and inspiration. Through Freedom House, doors are opened and opportunities are provided where love and grace are shared in many ways – connecting and changing the lives of those who give with those who receive.”

Jamie Stefan
Performance Food Group, Retired

“Some men see things as they are and say ‘Why?’ I dream things that never were and say “Why Not?” Anonymous

Nancy L. Warman
Social Worker and Director of Servant Ministry, St. James’s Episcopal Church

“I serve on the board of Freedom House in hopes of being one of many who help Freedom House be the best it can be in its efforts to embrace and serve those in need. I believe that in making a difference in one life, we enrich the lives of all of us. Freedom House is a champion of making a difference and I am proud to serve with it.”