Habitat for Humanity Okanagan Names Parry as New CEO
April 14, 2026 – Central Okanagan, BC – Habitat for Humanity Okanagan is pleased to announce the appointment of Lenetta Parry as its incoming Chief Executive Officer. Parry joins the organization on April 14, 2026 and will work alongside outgoing CEO Andrea Manifold during a transition period, before formally assuming the role on June 1, 2026.
With over two decades of senior leadership in the non-profit sector, Parry brings a proven track record of addressing the root causes of poverty in the Central Okanagan.
Parry has served in key leadership roles with The Central Okanagan Food Bank and most recently with The Salvation Army Okanagan Central, where she led initiatives focused on housing and food security. Her career is defined by a unique ability to combine compassionate advocacy with strategic vision, growth, and community impact.
“Parry’s collaborative leadership style and deep-rooted commitment to our community make her uniquely qualified to lead Habitat Okanagan into its next chapter,” said Lee Ann McEllister, Chair of the Habitat Okanagan Board of Directors. “Our Board is confident that, under Parry’s leadership, we will build on our strong foundation and continue to expand access to safe, affordable homeownership for families across the region.”
Parry succeeds Andrea Manifold, who is retiring at the end of May after years of dedicated service.
“The Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to outgoing CEO Andrea Manifold for her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and lasting contributions to the growth and impact of Habitat for Humanity Okanagan. During her tenure, she strengthened our capacity and advanced our mission considerably. Her leadership has left a strong and enduring foundation setting the organization up for continued success” added McEllister.
“Serving this community alongside our volunteers, partners, and families has been an incredible privilege,” said Manifold. “The transformation of Habitat Okanagan in recent years has been profound; I am proud of what we have accomplished and look forward to working with Lenetta over the next six weeks to ensure a smooth and successful transition.”
Parry joins the organization at a critical time, as housing instability continues to be a primary driver of poverty across the Okanagan and beyond. Her leadership will focus on the long-term structural impact of safe and stable housing.
“Habitat for Humanity Okanagan doesn’t just address a symptom, it helps break the cycle of poverty at its root,” said Parry. “Research shows that when families have a safe, stable home, everything changes. Health improves, educational outcomes rise, and families are better able to plan for the future. Every affordable home sparks wider change, reducing reliance on emergency supports and services and strengthening our community’s overall economic stability. It all starts with a home.”
“I am honoured to join this important organization and contribute to lasting housing solutions for families.”
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Okanagan’s mission, upcoming projects, or to make a donation safely and securely online please visit www.HabitatForHumanityOkanagan.ca
