Habitat for Humanity executive stepping down

Dean Illingworth will step down as executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Indianapolis at the end of the year, the organization announced Monday morning.

An architect and former partner at Schmidt & Associates, Illingworth has led Indy Habitat since 2005. The search for his replacement is under way.

Illingworth was not immediately available for comment Monday. In a news release, board Chairman Ben Houle credited Illingworth for bringing financial stability and professionalism to the organization, which makes zero-interest loans and builds new homes for low-income families.

In the past five years, Houle said, Indy Habitat has gained new corporate partners and created relationships with neigborhood groups. The local Habitat for Humanity affiliate also recently unveiled its first LEED-certified home in the Cottage Home neighborhood east of downtown.

Before becoming executive director, Illingworth served on the board. He will continue to be involved with the organization.

In 2008, the last year for which tax-return information is available, Indy Habitat had revenue of $4.4 million and a $500,000 surplus. Illingworth earned $99,190.

Indy Habitat, which began in 1987, is one of the largest chapters of Atlanta-based Habitat for Humanity International in terms of construction activity. Last year, the local chapter built 22 homes and rehabbed three, making it 28th out of 1,041 affiliates reporting their activities.