News

Open letter to Red Feather friends:

Last year, I asked Red Feather Development Group’s Board Chair to develop a strategy that would allow me to transition from my current position as Executive Director to join the Board of Directors.  A difficult decision for my wife, Anita and me, but a decision we feel is best for our family and for Red Feather.  I would like to take this opportunity to explain the leadership transition in more detail.

I also feel that it is important for me to convey my heartfelt, continued passion for Red Feather and the communities with whom we partner.  My transition purely stems from my enthusiasm for Red Feather’s housing effort and my sincere desire to see the organization grow.  A new Executive Director will bring fresh ideas, new energy and vital experience to the position and the organization.  On a personal note, after founding and directing Red Feather for the past 17 years, I also believe that it’s time to pursue other passions.

In order to provide a seamless transition, the Red Feather Board has formed a Search Committee comprised of experienced Board members in addition to the volunteer consultation of an executive recruiter.  In collaboration with Red Feather staff, the Search Committee will seek an Executive Director with established skills in fund raising and community development who will continue Red Feather’s worthy mission.

Red Feather could not have accomplished what it has without the steadfast support of so many individuals and organizations. Since 1994, Red Feather’s staff, board, members, volunteers, sponsors and tribal partners have helped complete nearly 100 construction projects in Montana, Washington, North Dakota, South Dakota and Arizona.  Our work continues with our current focus communities—the Northern Cheyenne Reservation in eastern Montana and the Hopi Reservation in northern Arizona—as we work alongside our partners to help address the housing needs within their communities.  In addition, we continue to receive inquiries from other tribes interested in Red Feather’s home construction program.

Red Feather’s select corporate partners have also played an enormous role in making homeownership more affordable for native families.  Our corporate sponsors have provided us all with the example of what it means to be a good citizen, and our members and foundation partners have helped our organization ride the swings of an unstable economy.  Because of our supporters, Red Feather is poised to continue our work alongside native communities to develop long-term strategies that create affordable housing.
The past 17 years have been an incredible journey, and one that I could have never imagined for my family or myself.  It has been a rare opportunity indeed, to work with the many extraordinary volunteers, tribal members and the Native communities with whom we partner.  I feel blessed with this experience.  The road has rarely been easy to navigate, but I have given Red Feather my all, and I have received far more than I have given.

I am confident that this is a good time for a transition in Red Feather leadership.  Over the next few months, I intend to work closely with the board search committee and the staff to find a dynamic person who can continue to direct and support Red Feather’s good work.  I look forward to staying involved and working beside you as a Board member during this new chapter in the Red Feather story.

If you have any questions or concerns, our Board Chair, Cindy Owings or I would be happy to speak with you further about the transition.

With sincere appreciation,



Robert O. Young
Founder/Executive Director