Building More Than Homes: Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity

For Maerine "Mimi" Mitchell, the moment a family receives the keys to their new home never gets old. "Seeing their smiles—and often tears—as they walk through the front door for the first time is incredibly powerful," she says. "At that moment, they're not just entering a house—they're stepping into a future filled with possibility for themselves and their children."

Mimi officially stepped into the role of Executive Director of Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity on February 1, 2026, after transitioning into the position over the summer of 2025. But her connection to Habitat's mission runs much deeper than her start date. She spent nearly a decade with another Habitat affiliate before coming to Fredericksburg—long enough, she jokes, to catch what she and her colleagues call "Habitat-itis." "Once you have it, it stays with you," she says.

Her path into affordable housing work began during a stint as an AmeriCorps VISTA, where she first volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. The experience resonated on a personal level: she was navigating her own housing struggles after graduating college into the 2008 economic crisis. That collision of professional discovery and personal hardship set the course for her career.

A Mission Rooted in Stability

Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity serves the Fredericksburg region, including Stafford, King George, and Spotsylvania, building and rehabilitating homes for families in need of safe, affordable housing. Since its founding in 1995, the organization has built more than 32 homes and completed hundreds of critical home repairs.

The need is real and growing. Across Virginia, 1 in 8 households spends more than half their income on housing, forcing families to choose between shelter and other essentials like food or healthcare. "Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that stable, affordable housing is the foundation for a better life," Mimi explains.

Importantly, Habitat's model isn't charity in the traditional sense. "At Habitat, we don't give homes away—we partner with families," Mimi says. Homeowners invest sweat equity, contribute financially, and commit to their family's future. "It's a hand-up, not a handout, and that's what makes the impact so lasting."

A New Development Taking Shape

Currently, the organization is deep into one of its most ambitious efforts yet: a new construction development of six homes in the Mayfield area of Fredericksburg. "This project has been years in the making, and we are thrilled to bring it to life finally," Mimi says. The organization is inviting the community to follow the build's progress and is actively seeking sponsors, in-kind service providers, and volunteers to help cross the finish line. Those interested can learn more at fredhab.org/services/builds/davies-street.

Community, Connection, and a Mechanical Bull

Beyond the build sites, Mimi has embraced Fredericksburg's tight-knit community spirit. At a recent fundraiser at Stockyards Restaurant & Bar, she even climbed aboard a mechanical bull in exchange for donations. "It was definitely a memorable moment and a great way to connect with people in a lighthearted way," she recalls.

New to the area herself, Mimi says she and her 14-year-old son are happily settled. "The sense of community here is incredible," she says. "People are welcoming, supportive, and genuinely connected."

A Calling, Not Just a Job

For Mimi, the work is personal. Having faced her own housing insecurity, she brings firsthand understanding to every family Habitat serves. "This work isn't just a job for me—it's a calling," she says.

She's quick to point out that there are many ways for community members to get involved, whether it be by swinging a hammer, sponsoring a build, donating materials, or simply spreading the word. "It takes all of us working together to truly make a difference," Mimi says. "Everyone deserves a decent place to live—and together, we can make that a reality right here in our community."

To volunteer, support, or learn more about the Mayfield development, visit fredhab.org.