Randolph County Housing Authority Announces Leadership Changes

Search underway for new executive director to lead the non-profit’s multiple programs.

ELKINS, WV – The Randolph County Housing Authority (RCHA) has announced changes to its leadership team and the resumption of the First Step Heavy Equipment Training (FSHET) program.

Graham Godwin has resigned as RCHA’s Executive Director due to health reasons. Godwin had been in the role since 2022. Heather Croson has been promoted from Operations Manager to Chief Operating Officer and is also serving as interim Executive Director.

“We want to thank Graham for his dedication and contributions to the organization,” said Michael Bell, chairman of RCHA’s Board of Commissioners. “We also look ahead to the future and to filling the Executive Director role with a strong leader who can help us build on our commitment to providing impactful programs across our service area.”

A nationwide search is underway for RCHA’s next Executive Director. The job is posted on the Indeed job site, where those interested in the position can learn more and apply.

The Executive Director is a critical leadership role within RCHA, which provides an array of services to the region including those related to housing assistance, job training and development.

About RCHA’s many community programs.

RCHA provides Section 8 rental assistance, with federal funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, as well as a program that helps participants transition out of the Section 8 program and into home ownership. RCHA’s Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program provides support to families so they can obtain employment on their path to economic independence. Working with multiple nonprofit housing partners, RCHA manages nearly 170 properties including mixed-income residential rental, commercial, and mixed-use properties.

Through the YouthBuild North Central program, RCHA serves individuals between the ages of 16 and 24 living in Randolph, Tucker, Upshur and Barbour counties. Participants in this workforce readiness program learn marketable job skills and leadership skills while building assets that benefit our communities. Participants can also earn a high school equivalency diploma.

RCHA’s Supportive Services division, led by Lexi Taylor, who was recently named Supportive Services Manager, addresses the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness by promoting rapid re-housing and helping affected individuals become financially self-sufficient through job training and other assistance. In addition, Supportive Services addresses the housing and vocational needs of those who are in recovery or transitioning out of the criminal justice system.

RCHA serves the six-county region of Randolph, Barbour, Tucker, Lewis, Upshur and Pendleton counties. Its mission is to build strong communities by investing in housing solutions, youth and workforce development and supportive services to improve the quality of life of individuals and families living in the West Virginia Highlands.