For David Terveen, Habitat for Humanity’s mission is deeply personal. As a longtime New Yorker, he has witnessed firsthand how stable housing transforms not just individual families, but entire communities. At the center of that transformation, he believes, is the simple yet powerful concept of “heart and home,” creating spaces where families can build stability, opportunity, and a lasting future.
This year marks an exciting new chapter for Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County, as David steps into the role of Chair of the organization’s first-ever Advisory Cabinet. The inaugural cabinet brings together dedicated supporters and leaders to serve as ambassadors for Habitat’s mission, expanding awareness, strengthening community partnerships, and helping advance critical fundraising efforts that make affordable homeownership possible.
The Advisory Cabinet was created to engage Habitat’s most passionate supporters in a meaningful and strategic way, offering an opportunity to contribute expertise, advocacy, and leadership outside of the formal Board of Directors structure. Under David’s leadership, the cabinet will serve as a vital conduit for fundraising and relationship-building, connecting new supporters to Habitat’s work and helping grow the resources needed to expand its impact.
As a longtime supporter of Habitat for Humanity, David Terveen knows well the importance and impact of giving. David’s relationship with Habitat spans nearly three decades. He was first introduced to the organization by former Executive Director, Josh Lockwood and quickly became a dedicated advocate. Over the years, he served on Habitat’s Board of Directors for more than a decade, helping guide the organization through periods of growth and transition. During his tenure, he was among Habitat’s most committed supporters and played a key role in strengthening programs designed to ensure long-term homeowner success.
“The real goal of the Advisory Cabinet is to help members serve as ambassadors,” David explains. “It’s about sharing Habitat’s story, engaging others, and creating opportunities to bring more people into the mission of building homes and communities.”
One of his most impactful contributions was helping establish initiatives to support Habitat homeowners beyond the initial purchase, providing education in financial management, co-op governance, and home maintenance. These efforts ensured that first-time homeowners had the tools and knowledge needed not only to purchase a home, but to thrive as homeowners for years to come.
David remains passionate about Habitat’s unique model, which emphasizes partnership and empowerment. Homeowners contribute “sweat equity,” invest financially in their homes, and receive education in budgeting and homeownership responsibilities. As David often notes, “Habitat’s work is crucial because it helps families build independence, confidence, and long-term stability.”
For David, the impact of Habitat’s work extends far beyond individual homes. Stable housing strengthens neighborhoods, supports local schools and businesses, and helps create healthier, more resilient communities. Research consistently shows that children in stable homes experience better educational outcomes, stronger attendance, and improved overall wellbeing.
“Homeownership breaks cycles,” David says. “It creates stability not just for families today, but for their children and grandchildren.”
He recalls one particularly powerful moment at a Habitat event, where a child spoke about having his own room and his own door for the first time. It was a reminder of how something many take for granted can represent security, dignity, and hope.
David is especially excited about Habitat’s expanding reach across New York City and Westchester County, which has created new opportunities to develop single-family homes and deepen community impact. He also supports Habitat’s growing focus on aging-in-place and home repair programs, which help longtime residents remain safely in their homes while preserving neighborhood stability.
Beyond construction, David recognizes Habitat’s important role as an advocate working to advance policies and programs that expand access to affordable homeownership and strengthen communities across the region.
As Chair of the inaugural Advisory Cabinet, David brings not only experience and leadership, but also deep gratitude and passion for the city he calls home. He views his involvement as an opportunity to give back and help ensure that more families have access to the stability and opportunity that homeownership provides.
For David, the mission remains simple and powerful: creating heart and home for families across New York today and for generations to come.