Chicago, IL (February 26, 2026) — The GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment is proud to announce the appointment of Joel Williams and Henry Gomez to its Board of Directors. Their extensive experience in community development, affordable housing, and financial empowerment will advance the Foundation’s mission to promote equitable access to financial resources and pathways to homeownership.
Joel Williams currently serves as the President and CEO of Lake McHenry Habitat for Humanity, a role he assumed in 2021. Throughout his career, he has led mission-driven nonprofit organizations committed to strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for families in need.
Williams was drawn to Habitat for Humanity because of its dual impact on both individual households and broader communities, and he has remained deeply committed to advancing access to safe, decent, and affordable housing.
In 2024, Lake McHenry Habitat for Humanity and the GLCU Foundation began exploring new lending opportunities and innovative affordable mortgage structure, laying the groundwork for a strong, mission‑aligned partnership. Williams brings valuable expertise in affordable housing, strategic nonprofit leadership, and community collaboration.
Henry Gomez, Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Rate, joins the GLCU Foundation’s Board as a long-standing advocate for community-based housing initiatives and financial counseling programs. His professional expertise, paired with his lived experience, fuels his dedication to promoting financial stability and expanding pathways to homeownership for underserved communities.
Gomez brings a meaningful and personal perspective to the GLCU Foundation’s work as an individual deeply connected to the Hispanic community. His commitment aligns strongly with GLCU’s Juntos Avanzamos initiative, which supports financial inclusion for Hispanic and immigrant families. Gomez is passionate about elevating awareness of the GLCU Foundation’s mission and fostering cross-sector partnerships to address growing needs for accessible housing solutions.
Rooted in his family’s own story — where every member has achieved homeownership — Gomez believes firmly in the transformative power of the GLCU Foundation’s work and is dedicated to championing it.
“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Joel and Henry to the GLCU Foundation Board,” said Matthew Rizzie, Executive Director of the GLCU Foundation. “The experience and dedication they bring to the organization will further bolster our mission of financially empowering our communities.”
About the GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment
The GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, committed to enhancing the financial wellbeing of its members, employees, and the community at large. It strives to enact positive change through financial literacy programs, donations, grants, sponsorships, and volunteer initiatives. To learn more about the Foundation, visit https://www.glcufoundation.org