Fairhope, AL, February 5, 2025 – Hope Community, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is pleased to announce officers and board members for the 2025-2026 term. Susan Godwin has been elected as the new President of Hope Community. Godwin is a retired music business owner who has an MS in Education/Counseling. She has been an adjunct professor at the University of Mobile. Godwin previously served as Secretary on Hope Community’s Board of Directors. “I am deeply honored to serve alongside such dedicated individuals who share a passion for Hope Community,” said Godwin.
Godwin succeeds Shawn Graham whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s impact and mission of “nurturing unity and relationships through food, healing, and education.” While stepping down as President, Graham will continue to provide valuable guidance in an advisory role. Hope Community is also very thankful for the service of departing board member, Irene Wegner.
Hope Community’s current Treasurer, John Fitzgerald, will remain in his role while also taking on the responsibilities of Vice President. Clarice Hall-Black, a dedicated board member, has been elected as Secretary.
The Board of Directors will continue to benefit from the experience and leadership of Pamela Williams and Vickie Graham, who will be joined by newly appointed directors, Ann Lemis and Gil Wright. This dynamic team will help guide Hope Community’s ongoing efforts to serve and uplift the community.
Reflecting on the organization’s legacy, Graham shared, “The memory of those who made great sacrifices over the past 118 years will be reignited and revitalized through the shared efforts of Hope Community. The new board and all the many volunteers active on our committees are now woven into the fabric of Fairhope South’s rich legacy.”
Under Graham’s leadership, Hope Community has achieved significant milestones, strengthened its impact and expanded its reach. Graham and the Board of Directors have developed strategic plans, implemented policies, and forged partnerships with civic organizations. Recent accomplishments include support for residents in securing home renovations through Baldwin County’s Home Recovery Alabama Program, the creation of the FoodRx to promote nutrition and wellness through whole foods interactive cooking workshops, and donation of thousands of health essentials to the Mobile Area Interfaith Conference whose work supports currently and formerly incarcerated individuals.
During his tenure, over 500 members joined the organization, and Hope Community secured the lease for the historic Anna T. Jeanes (ATJ) School property, paving the way for its long-term vision to develop a teaching farm, nature trails, teaching kitchen, and community center. Hope Community is actively engaged in building raised garden beds, maintaining the ATJ property, hosting guest speakers, organizing its annual 5K run, and continuing monthly FoodRx workshops.
