The Habitat for Humanity® of Greater Nashville held its State Impact Awards last night at the upscale event venue The View at Fountains in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Jack Fleischer of Hermitage Design Center in Nashville was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Fleischer was celebrated for initiating a partnership with Habitat for Humanity that has transformed lives by generously donating 700+ lighting packages to Habitat homes, “brightening the futures of countless families and underscoring his commitment to making a lasting difference,” the event’s speaker said, adding, “In 2010, he undertook a remarkable effort, participating in an Ironman competition to raise $10,000 for Habitat. His passion for our mission is rooted in a deep belief in Habitat’s power to change lives and communities for the better.”
When the original brick-and-mortar showroom for Hermitage closed in 2022 and switched to an online business model, Fleischer “in an act of unparalleled generosity, donated lighting displays and fixtures valued at $600,000 to the ReStores, ensuring that his legacy of giving continues to impact Habitat’s work. Throughout his tenure, he has not only served as a dedicated board member and advisor, but he has also inspired others with his leadership and advocacy,” the speaker stated, adding, “Tonight we celebrate his extraordinary contributions to building homes, communities, and hope.”
Accepting the award, Fleischer told the crowd, “My journey with Habitat has been a special one. It started with me attending the grand opening of the ReStore on Division Street. I became educated for the first time on what Habitat for Humanity was and did, and its mission quite simply aligned with my heart. I’ve always had the belief that you can change a person’s life by giving them a roof over their head that is theirs. I knew I wanted to contribute to this worthwhile endeavor, and it made perfect sense to me to contribute a lighting package to each new build, as a way I could help. It was evident to me that Habitat was changing lives in a great way. I’m pleased to play a small part in the success of this incredible non-profit,” he said.
“I’ll never forget listening to Jimmy Carter glow about Habitat for Humanity at the opening ceremony in Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium. [In 2019, Nashville was the destination for the Presidential couple’s 36th year of the Carter Work Project with Habitat Humanity.] For any of you who were there, it was incredible and such an inspiration. I cannot say enough positive comments about the quality of people I have had the honor of meeting through Habitat for Humanity,” he remarked.
Fleischer thanked all of the Habitat professionals and volunteers who have helped Habitat grow and thrive. “I’m so pleased and blessed to be part of this mission. I give thanks to my family for their support and love in my life. My hope and prayer is that Habitat continues to grow and thrive while it continues to impact and change people’s lives, and that we continue striving for the basic right for all to own and have shelter over their heads,” he said. “I feel so honored by this recognition. Thank you so much for this Lifetime Achievement Award and may God bless us all.”
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