Habitat for Humanity CEO recognized at Omaha conference that drew nearly 3,000

OMAHA — Affordable housing advocate Amanda Brewer, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, received a leadership award Wednesday at the annual ICAN conference.

Representatives said nearly 3,000 people registered to attend the 32nd annual event in Omaha that focuses on women’s leadership and is organized by the Institute for Career Advancement Needs (ICAN).

The leadership award was created in 2015 by ICAN and Kiewit Corp. to recognize leaders who live and lead through collaboration, compassion, confidence and creativity.

Brewer over 28 years has risen from Habitat volunteer to CEO.

“Through her efforts to increase affordable housing and empower families to achieve homeownership, Amanda Brewer is setting the standard for how leaders can ideate, collaborate and break down barriers,” said Aileen Warren, CEO of ICAN.

Brewer’s nomination recognized her collaborative approach. Recent examples cited in a news release include a partnership with Metonic Real Estate Solutions and Apogee Professional Services to create apartments and affordable homes in northwest Omaha that will be in reach of workers. Habitat also hosts clinics on transferring deeds that helped 362 families secure nearly $77 million in generational wealth.

Through a donation from MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving fund, Brewer also is helping to establish a coalition among Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the state to address workforce and affordable housing needs.

Habitat Omaha is described as the nation’s top Habitat affiliate based on the number of people it serves. Agency goals include wealth-building, reducing the impact of out-of-state investors who buy properties in Nebraska, payday lending reform and vacant and rental property registration.

Said Brewer: “We know the need for affordable housing is great, and our commitment to making a meaningful impact is stronger than ever.”