As a non-profit organization whose mission is to build homes, communities and hope for local families in need of a decent and affordable place to live, we rely on the support of our Board of Directors. Board members serve for a minimum of four years and advocate for affordable housing in the community, advise our senior leadership team, and financially support Habitat’s mission on an annual basis.
Please join us in welcoming Chairman Robert Arnall, and four new members, Amanda Barritt, Mike Durkin, Jesse Purdon, and Matthew Zwack to our 2022 Board of Directors! In partnership with Habitat leadership and fellow board members, they will work to expand affordable homeownership opportunities for low-income families throughout Southwest Florida.
“At Habitat, our Board of Directors play a critical role in strategic oversight and governance,” says CEO, Becky Lucas. “These individuals’ diverse skills, knowledge, and experiences will strengthen our organization as we strive to serve more families and improve home affordability in Lee and Hendry Counties.”
Chairman Robert Arnall
Robert Arnall is a founding officer of FineMark National Bank, where he currently serves as the Executive Vice President & Chief Credit Officer. A Fort Myers resident since 1964, Robert earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida before beginning his career in Southwest Florida. Prior to joining FineMark National Bank, Robert held several prominent positions, including Second Vice President of Private Banking with Northern Trust Banking of Florida and Chief Financial Officer of a local building materials supplier.
A supporter of Habitat Lee & Hendry for more than 20 years and a Board Member since 2015, Robert has a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and the community’s needs. “Stable, affordable housing is critical to sustaining a high quality of life for all members of our community,” Robert says. “I’m excited to further Habitat’s mission as we seek to meet the needs of low-income families in Southwest Florida,” he concluded.
Amanda K. Barritt
Amanda K. Barritt is an attorney at Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, PA, serving as chair of the firm’s Condominium and Homeowner’s Associations Practice Group. Amanda received her Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University before attending law school at Florida State University, graduating with honors. Amanda has earned numerous accolades throughout her legal career, including being named one of Florida Trend Magazine’s Legal Elite and Naples Illustrated’s Top Lawyers.
As a lifelong Florida resident, Amanda is passionate about giving back to her community. She’s a Lee County Association of Women Lawyers member, a Girl Scout Troop Leader, and an allocations team member for the United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades, and Okeechobee Counties. New to the Habitat Lee & Hendry Board, Amanda looks forward to using her connections and expertise to strengthen community partnerships that support Habitat’s mission.
Michael Durkin
Michael Durkin is an experienced professional in the banking and finance industry, currently serving as the Regional President of MidWestOne Bank in Fort Myers and Naples. Michael earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Florida and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Florida State University.
Michael has been active in the Southwest Florida community for many years and brings a wealth of knowledge to the Habitat Board. As a new board member and someone who believes in giving back, he’s excited to help make the dream of homeownership a reality for families in Lee and Hendry Counties.
Jesse Purdon
Jesse Purdon is a public policy professional with years of experience directing policy strategy and advocacy for various organizations. He is a Bonita Springs City Council member and currently serves as the District Director for United States Congressman Byron Donalds. Upon graduating from Central Michigan University, Jesse has worked tirelessly to increase civic participation and community engagement in Southwest Florida.
Working with other board members, Jesse looks forward to using his unique skills and knowledge to advocate for public policies that will support Habitat’s goal of expanding affordable homeownership opportunities for families in need of a decent place to call home.
Matthew J. Zwack
Matthew J. Zwack is a Florida Licensed General Contractor with a LEED Professional Certification in Building Design and Construction. In 2005, Matthew joined Owen-Ames-Kimball Construction, where he currently serves as President. Matthew’s notable projects in Southwest Florida include the new Lehigh Acres Middle School, the FGCU Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship, and the Southwest Florida Community Foundation Collaboratory.
Matthew is an engaged community member, serving on the Lee County Horizon Council and as a Board Member for The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools and The United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades, and Okeechobee Counties. As a new member of the Habitat Lee and Hendry Board, Matthew is excited to support Habitat’s mission and vision
