And The 2025 Rebuilding Together Celebration of Excellence Awards Go To…
Rebuilding Together affiliates, partners and leaders gathered in Long Beach, CA, for an evening dedicated to recognition, gratitude and inspiration. The Celebration of Excellence Awards, marking 37 years of repairing homes, revitalizing communities and rebuilding lives, honored the individuals and affiliates whose creativity, leadership and collaboration embody the very best of our mission.
Excellence in Community Programming Award
Recipient: Rebuilding Together of South Alabama
Though only in their second year as a nonprofit, Rebuilding Together of South Alabama has already become a trusted partner in their community. Their innovative rain barrel initiative reduces flooding risks in disaster-prone areas while engaging local students as volunteers. In partnership with area schools, they’ve also launched a program where students build tiny homes, expanding affordable housing options and developing workforce skills for young people. Their creativity, responsiveness and deep community connection earned them this year’s Excellence in Community Programming Award.
Excellence in Collaboration Award
Recipient: Rebuilding Together East Bay Network
Rebuilding Together East Bay Network has made collaboration the foundation of everything they do. Their partnerships, from operating a thrift store with the Dorothy Day House to running a year-long construction class for high school students through their Big Skills program, demonstrate how collective effort builds stronger, more sustainable communities. Their spirit of cooperation and innovation makes them a model of local partnership done right.
Excellence in Overall Leadership Award
Recipient: Drake Cunningham and Rebuilding Together Petaluma
Under the leadership of Executive Director Drake Cunningham, Rebuilding Together Petaluma has grown from a $450,000 organization into a $2.2 million powerhouse with 27 staff members. His strategic vision, courage and partnership-building have dramatically expanded the affiliate’s capacity to serve neighbors and inspired others throughout our network. His example sets a high bar for leadership and impact.
Housing Access Leadership Award
Recipient: Rebuilding Together St. Louis
Rebuilding Together St. Louis exemplifies what it means to listen first, act collaboratively and lead with integrity. Their client-centered approach, rooted in honesty, trust and respect, ensures that every project advances equitable access to safe and healthy housing. By embracing diverse perspectives and celebrating community voices, they are shaping a more inclusive future for housing access in their region.
Commitment to Collective Impact Award
Recipient: Katharine Dixon and Rebuilding Together DC - Alexandria
A dedicated leader and mentor across the Rebuilding Together network, Katharine Dixon has consistently gone above and beyond to support affiliates and share valuable resources. Her outreach, generosity and collaborative spirit have strengthened the entire network. As a member of the National Affiliate Council, she brings creativity, compassion and a problem-solving mindset that exemplifies what collective impact is all about.
President’s Award
Recipients: Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh and Rebuilding Together Sandoval County
Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh was honored for its innovative approach to addressing local housing challenges and building strong partnerships that expand their reach and impact. Their commitment to collaboration and creative problem-solving continues to set the standard for excellence across the network.
Mark Ryerson, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Sandoval County, received the second President’s Award. Since joining the affiliate in 2024, Mark has worked tirelessly to strengthen community relationships and secure new funding sources, putting the organization on track to quadruple its budget by 2026. His energy, determination and leadership are transforming the affiliate and community alike.
Patty R. Johnson Community Builder Award
Recipient: Mary Herche
Named after Rebuilding Together’s founding president and CEO, this award honors leaders whose lifelong commitment to affordable housing and community redevelopment continues to shape our movement. This year’s recipient, Mary Herche, worked alongside Patty Johnson to help launch Rebuilding Together Seattle and went on to establish six more affiliates. A former national board member, Mary remains deeply dedicated to our mission and the communities we serve. Her legacy of service and leadership continues to inspire us all.
Congratulations to all our 2025 award recipients. Your leadership and creativity drive Rebuilding Together’s mission forward every day and remind us what’s possible when we work together.