News photo by Darby Hinkley Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan Executive Director Ted Fines stands at the counter at Habitat ReStore in Alpena. Fines will begin his term as Affiliate Representative on the Michigan Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors beginning in January 2023.
ALPENA — Ted Fines “hopes to shake things up” in Lansing and bring more attention to northeast Michigan in the process.
The Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan has been nominated, accepted and approved to sit as Affiliate Representative on the Habitat for Humanity of Michigan Board of Directors effective January 1, 2023. The Board meets quarterly in Lansing.
“We can do a lot with other organizations, with other people, there is so much we can accomplish here,” Fines said. “That’s why I’ve been pushing for six years to be on the board in Lansing.”
Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan currently covers Alcona, Alpena, Presque Isle, and Oscoda counties, but they are adding Montmorency and working in other nearby counties as well. And there is a lot of work to be done, Fines said.
“I’ve been trying to move on … because I thought I could make a difference,” Fines said. “In my opinion, we are the forgotten part of the state, sometimes… I always felt like we needed representation here.”
He said he sees Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan as a collaborative team with many valuable members.
“We are a team here,” Fines said. “I try not to have the spotlight just on me. It’s in everyone here. We really strive to be impactful and make a difference… I think we’re making an impact, especially with the repairs.”
Refers to the Critical Home Repair program.
“I’m always writing grants, trying to see how we can help the community,” he added.
Fines is eager to serve on the state board. He has been Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan since May 2016. His duties will continue in that role. Being on the state board is an additional task that he is ready to tackle.
“I feel lucky,” Fines said. “I like to think of myself as a voice for Northeast Michigan.”
Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan is always looking for volunteers. For more information, visit habitatnemi.org or call 989-354-5555.
