Project Manager Brings Personal Experience, Professional Knowledge to the St. Johns Housing Partnership

By Carole Hawkins

Then, the workers asked Ray if he’d like a job. Ray found himself on familiar ground. His stepfather had run a local paint contracting company for years and they’d always volunteered for SJHP’s annual Make a Difference Day. This year it’s Saturday, Oct. 25.

So, Ray joined the Partnership’s weatherization team, eventually working his way up to project manager. He’s been with the Partnership for eight years.

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps low-income households reduce energy costs by improving the energy efficiency of their homes, providing services at no direct cost to eligible participants. SJHP works in St. Johns and Clay Counties.

“It’s always a plus when someone can bring personal experience and professional knowledge and skills to helping our clients. Rick is a perfect example of how we need to invest in our future with our younger employees. Earning his license not only increases his prospects, but it raises the bar on the quality of our SJHP capacity,” noted SJHP Executive Director Bill Lazar.

Recently, he passed his Florid Certified Residential Contractor exams. It means Ray will be able to help even more as a licensed contractor.

Being on the rehab and low-income side of construction has its challenges, he said. Every home is completely different, some are 100 years old, and many aren’t in very good shape.

“But we’re also helping people who likely couldn’t do this any other way,” he said. “That’s awesome, that does it for me.”