Laura Lane McKinnon

About Laura Lane McKinnon

A strategic and skilled non-profit leader with a passion for developing meaningful and…

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Housing Forward Georgia

   Oct 2022 — Present · Savannah, GA, US

   As the Executive Director of Housing Savannah, I lead the organization’s efforts to improve and expand affordable housing opportunities in the greater-Savannah area through collaboration, advocacy, education, and strategic action. We work to convene a diverse range of stakeholders—including citizens, housing practitioners, non-profits, municipal staff, elected officials, housing and social advocates, and civic and business leaders—to foster collaborative partnerships that drive meaningful change in our region\'s housing ecosystem.I oversee our marketing, education, and outreach efforts, as we educate the public and policymakers about the complexities of housing issues and opportunities. We work to dispel myths and misconceptions, clarify the correlations and causes behind housing challenges, and promote smart growth and pro-housing initiatives that advance housing equity, expand supply, and provide common-sense solutions with actionable steps.I also lead fundraising efforts for the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund (SAHF), a vital resource that provides flexible, non-federal funding to support affordable housing initiatives. Through SAHF, we help low-income homeowners with critical repairs, assist first-time buyers with down payment and closing costs, and fund the development of affordable rental and for-sale housing. Beyond funding, I cultivate grassroots support for small-scale developers and spearhead transformative initiatives like the region’s first YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) group and the Women in Affordable Housing Network (WAHN) chapter.At Housing Savannah, we’re not just advocating for change—we’re building it. Through bold leadership, strong partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to housing equity, I work every day to create a more inclusive, thriving, and affordable Savannah for all.

Education

• Savannah College of Art and Design

  Bachelor of Fine Arts

  1989 — 2004

Skills

• Nonprofits
• Project Planning
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Time Management
• Public Speaking
• Corporate Development
• Program Development
• Management
• Public Relations
• Event Planning
• Fundraising
• Higher Education
• Event Management
• Community Outreach
• Community Development
• Volunteer Management
• Community Relations
• Editing
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Customer Relations
• Relationship Management
• Non-Profits
• Strategic Planning
• Customer Service
• Writing