Bart Cochran

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

Founder and CEO. I am accountable for strategic and operational responsibilities for LEAP Housing staff, programs, expansion and execution of its mission. I have a deep knowledge of real estate along with an education in finance which has made it possible to co-create innovative affordable housing programs and projects that have gained national media attention. In addition to my role as CEO at LEAP, I am also a licensed realtor with Silvercreek Realty Group and co-founder of Property People, a full service real estate company and property manager.

When I’m not working I am…

Hiking, running, biking, swimming, traveling and working with my family on our tiny farm in Boise.

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

I was heartbroken. By 2016, I had seen enough and couldn’t take it anymore. My career in real estate was more than a decade long by that point, and I had seen too many good people unable to access safe, stable and affordable housing. I invested time, money and knowledge to co-create what we know today as LEAP Housing. I am inspired by the many people who have joined LEAP with a shared vision that all Idahoans would have an opportunity to access affordable housing. I am even more inspired as I listen and learn from those we have worked with. I consider it an honor to work alongside so many in our community.

____________________

bart@leaphousing.org 

Brian Woodward

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are…

Making order out of chaos. I have spent all of my career trying to make complicated things more simple. As Chief of Staff, I do this at LEAP primarily by creating better organizational design and addressing operational inefficiency through different systems, collaboration venues and communication. Sometimes that looks like helping with an audit, re-designing the org chart, improving our ability to track successes. Other times it looks like leading a special project like branding, press events and site inspections.

When I’m not working I am…

Taking long walks on the beach, coming up with dad jokes and otherwise uncelebrated humor. And then I hike, walk and cook. Give me a glass of wine, a good kitchen and some great music and you’ll see me in my happy zone.

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

We’re building a bigger table. I stole that line from my co-worker, Tracy. It’s so good. More and more folks don’t have a seat at the table in the Treasure Valley, and I kinda think it's my responsibility to make it possible for more people to get to the “table.” What better way to do that than working on the state’s single biggest crisis - housing affordability.

____________________

brian@leaphousing.org 

Douglas Peterson

My main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

As LEAP’s senior housing development advisor, I offer my knowledge and experience in the affordable housing sector to consult LEAP on how to manage its housing development operations. With decades of experience working in the nonprofit sector, I have been a part of LEAP’s journey since its beginning back in ‘08.

My dedication to developing affordable housing has allowed me to serve as the executive director of The Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, as a member of the Virginia Affordable Advisory Counsel at the Office of Housing Development, and as the Director of The Housing Company, an affiliate to the Idaho Housing and Finance Association in 2002.

When I’m not working I am…

Spending time with my grandkids, building, and traveling.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

If my experience has taught me anything, is that there are so many creative solutions that can be deployed to create affordable housing opportunities. And quite frankly, there are many “everyday” solutions that can be executed. I have always been a dreamer and it's my joy to serve the Gem State community as a contractor with LEAP and see them flourish and create a legacy that begins with the work we accomplish today.

____________________

Becca Mathias

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

My daily tasks at LEAP Housing are rarely the same, which keeps things exciting and new! Being the Asset Manager allows me to work with homeowners and renters, while working as the Operations Manager allows me to continue to hone my financial wrangling skills. After working in banks and libraries throughout college, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Boise State University and found my way to LEAP Housing in 2020.

When I’m not working I am…

Dancing - I have been a competitive Irish dancer / teacher for over 20 years and have always loved trying new styles, especially country two-step and swing. I also enjoy reading, playing guitar, skiing, and figure skating.

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

I love being able to make a tangible difference in someone else's life. Being a native Idahoan, I enjoy seeing my neighbors achieve homeownership in our beautiful state.

____________________

becca@leaphousing.org

Johnny O'Donnell

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

Development Analyst: I maintain timelines and project tasks to ensure projects stay on track. I process permits, funding draws and other required development documentation.

I Graduated from Chico State with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on Project Management. In my past work as a Project Manager I oversaw multiple campaigns ensuring their timely completion, sourced and negotiated vendor bids and forecasted project expenses.

When I’m not working I am…

Playing trivia, reading and exploring the area on my bicycle.

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

The housing crisis is one of the biggest issues facing our community and at LEAP I can help drive solutions that can make a positive difference to people who need it the most.

___________________

johnny@leaphousing.org

Ben Rees

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

My scope is to narrow the funnel of potential projects by identifying the ones that will be most successful, and to usher those through to development.  The part of the filtering I am involved in is determining if the project is constructible, fundable and has community support. My desire is to increase the capacity of LEAP to serve the community and their stakeholders. On a granular level, this means optimizing processes, streamlining workflows, building information management and creating team efficiencies.

When I’m not working I am…

When I have the time I am out cycling, trying to hone my cooking skills, or satisfying my curiosity by researching something more deeply than I ought to.

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…? 

LEAP provides an avenue to leverage my unique skills, talent, compassion and industry knowledge in order to positively affect the lives of individuals and families by creating  hope, stability and a launchpad for their future.

____________________

ben@leaphousing.org

Gabrielle Buzan

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

HR & Community Manager. I oversee leasing, tenant relations, maintenance coordination, and daily operations. Creating a welcoming and supportive community for our residents is my priority and passion. With over 10 years of experience in senior living and property management, I've learned how to build trust and foster a positive environment for our seniors to thrive.

When I’m not working I am…

I enjoy volunteering for causes within my community that are near to my heart. I also serve on Jesse Tree's Neighborhood Council Advisory Committee, am a member of Boise Young Professionals, and am studying for my Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exams. I also enjoy biking the greenbelt and playing board games with friends.

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

LEAP’s mission to create housing opportunities for individuals and families in need deeply resonates with me. I grew up in a low-income household and understand the challenges of finding stable, affordable housing. As a child, I often wished there were more resources and support for families like mine. Now, through LEAP, I have the opportunity to help provide those solutions. It’s inspiring to be part of an organization making a real difference in people’s lives and helping to build a stronger, more supportive community.

____________________

gabrielle@leaphousing.org

Christine Hummer

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

As Director of Communities my work is focused on building relationships within the LEAP owned communities to understand their needs above and beyond safe, secure housing.  My role acts as an integrator of services and resources available to them to help them build and maintain healthy lives and I do my best to be warm, supportive and connective in that role.    

When I’m not working I am…

I love to spend time in nature and in my gardens.  My husband and I are officially bird launchers and have no more kiddos in the home nest so we’re enjoying new adventures outdoors with our two dogs.  I am a bird nerd. I love exploring, traveling, camping and anything near flowing water (including hot springs) and we always love visits from our grown up children.  

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

I measure my gratification at work with how well I am improving the lives of others around me.  My love language is helping and solving problems. My superpower is building bridges and making connections. These gifts come pretty easy and naturally from my roles of being a mom, caregiver and lover of life. I love that the folks at LEAP all do drastically different things but we are all superheroes with our own individual talents and this team is so awesome at what we do.  Working for LEAP has been a career changing breath of fresh air. 

christine@leaphousing.org

Maile Lombard

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

With more than a decade of highly relevant experience as an Executive Administrative Assistant, my well-rounded expertise allows me to provide an array of strong support in managing critical and time-sensitive responsibilities on behalf of LEAP CEO, Bart Cochran. Always striving for excellence in this fast-paced environment, some of my many duties include: overseeing multiple calendars and scheduling numerous meetings and appointments; solving problems or juggling unexpected tasks; and managing a variety of complex and detailed support services promoting the LEAP mission. I also happily assist in maintaining mutually beneficial partnerships with city, county and community leaders in an effort to help create affordable housing for Idahoans statewide.

When I’m not working I am…

Riding my bike along the beltway of the Boise River with my husband, Steve, or walking our Yellow Lab, Duke.  Spending time with my adult children, as well as my two grandchildren, fills my heart with joy.  In the summer, my husband and I enjoy making our annual trip to my hometown, Kailua, on the beautiful island of Oahu.  This yearly venture entails hanging out with my parents, other family and lifelong friends, and hours of lounging on our favorite beach, Lanikai. 

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

After years of working in both the public and private sectors, I have found my true calling by joining one of, if not the finest non-profit organization in Idaho.  The joy of helping others and making a positive difference is nothing short of a daily experience as part of the LEAP team.  As Bernie Marcus, co-founder of Home Depot once said, “Do the most good with the best people to have the biggest impact.”  That’s LEAP Housing!

____________________

maile@leaphousing.org 

Jared Slyter

My main responsibilities as CMO at leap housing are… 

As the Chief Marketing Officer at LEAP Housing, I am responsible for promoting LEAP’s mission of Creating Homefullness and raising awareness for affordable housing across the state. My work at LEAP is varied and vast, including managing our social platforms, building maketing campaigns to promote new properties, volunteer opportunities, and year-end giving. I provide marketing consulting for our property managers, and handle all things design.

When I’m not working I am…

I love spending time in nature; hiking, camping, and kayaking. I’m an artist, musician and avid reader. I also love rock climbing to work on my fear of heights - anything that pushes me out of my comfort zone is where I thrive.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

Housing is a basic need we should all have access to. Our current system struggles (at best) and fails (at worst) to provide hard-working individuals and families opportunities to take part in homeownership, let alone find affordable housing. Working with and for LEAP Housing is a great way to use my skills and talents as a designer, communicator, and consultant to bridge the gap and bring our mission to center-stage in Idaho. Affordable housing should never be limited to your tax bracket. We can do better. We can change the way we approach this growing problem. The team at LEAP is full of people smarter than me, and I’m grateful to empower their great ideas through visual storytelling and marketing.

Mary Overstreet

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

As LEAP’s Construction Manager, I collaborate with the development team through the design process and manage all Leap properties including the Leap Housing Trust. I have a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from the University of Idaho; I am a Certified Master Gardener through the University of Idaho, and I am also a Licensed Real Estate agent in Ada County.  I have worked as an architect and landscape designer for more than 30 years while building a parallel property and asset management career. 

When I’m not working I am…

Cooking, gardening, snow skiing, mountain biking, camping, and traveling! What else would you expect from a Boise native?!

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…

I gain such satisfaction with the idea of helping people. I recognize the extreme need for affordable housing and want to do what I can to help with the solution.

___________________

mary@leaphousing.org

Karen Christianson

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

As Cooperative + Community Housing Specialist I get to work directly with LEAP’s Resident Owned Communities (ROC).  We support residents of mobile home parks in organizing resident cooperatives to purchase their communities.  I support cooperatives who have successfully purchased their communities.  I also work with LEAP’s Community Land Trust by supporting thriving communities in our neighborhoods throughout the Valley. My background of both construction & ministry are being put to full use here at LEAP.   

When I’m not working I am…

I love the outdoors, rafting, camping, and people! Volunteering is a true-heart passion and constant in my life.  Gathering and connecting people is in my DNA.  

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…? 

I love helping people thrive and achieve their goals.  I have worked with people that face many difficulties daily that most of us don’t face.  Not having a stable place to live amplifies these in unimaginable ways.   By providing stable, safe, secure housing, that is the foundation that allows change to begin and lives to thrive.   Our current housing economic market is working against people thriving.  I am so excited to work with amazing people and we get to see people achieve home ownership that otherwise wouldn’t.  

____________________

karen@leaphousing.org

Chrystle Cornett

My main responsibilities as Development Analyst at leap housing are… 

My work focuses on supporting the development of affordable housing opportunities throughout North Idaho. I assist with evaluating new housing projects, project coordination and due diligence, community outreach, and helping guide developments from early planning through completion. I also work closely with community partners, lenders, realtors, and prospective homeowners to support sustainable homeownership opportunities and strengthen local housing resources. A large part of my role involves collaboration, relationship-building, and helping create long-term housing solutions that serve local families and communities.

When I’m not working I am…

Spending time with my kids, writing, and enjoying everything North Idaho has to offer. I love being outdoors and learning about the many plants and natural resources that surround us here. Music is also a big part of my life — I’m a musician and play in a local band several times a month around town.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

I believe stable housing creates opportunity, security, and dignity for individuals and families. Affordable homeownership has become increasingly out of reach for many hardworking people, and I’m passionate about helping create pathways that allow local families to continue living and thriving in the communities they call home. 

What inspires me most about nonprofit housing is the collaboration it requires — bringing together partners, resources, and community support to create something lasting and meaningful for future generations.

Randy Forster

MY MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES AS FACILITIES MANAGER ARE…

Coming soon.

WHEN I’M NOT WORKING I AM…

Coming soon.

I’M IN NONPROFIT, AND SPECIFICALLY INSPIRED BY LEAP BECAUSE…

Coming soon.

Joe Bankard

My position and main responsibilities at LEAP are… 

As the YIGBY (Yes in God's Backyard) program coordinator, my work is focused on churches interested in partnering with LEAP to help create affordable housing. Many churches own underused land, but are unsure how best to use it.  A large part of my work is helping churches discern if affordable housing might be a faithful use of their land.  The hope is to create a partnership with churches in order to develop and support affordable housing.  

In addition to working with LEAP, I am a philosophy professor at Northwest Nazarene University.  I also served as pastor at Collister UMC from 2016-2023.  

When I’m not working I am…

I love snow skiing, golfing and watching professional sports.  

I’m in nonprofit work, and specifically inspired by LEAP, because…? 

The church I pastored (Collister UMC) partnered with LEAP to build two units of affordable housing on church land.  The project was a smashing success and LEAP was great to work with.  Seeing the transformative power stable housing had on two families was wonderful to experience.  I want other churches to experience this as well. 

____________________

joe@leaphousing.org

Tyler Ross

My main responsibilities as Housing & Development Lead / Feasibility Specialist at leap housing are… 

In my role as Housing & Development Lead / Feasibility Specialist I oversee the Housing and Development Team in guiding residential projects from initial feasibility through successful completion. This role directs comprehensive analyses including financial modeling, site evaluation, market research, and regulatory compliance while managing team workflows, coordinating stakeholder collaboration, and identifying strategic development opportunities. I also lead and mentor team members to deliver innovative housing solutions that balance fiscal responsibility with meaningful community impact.

When I’m not working I am…

I enjoy fishing, hiking, golfing, traveling, playing music, and spending time with family and friends.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

As an Idaho native, it has been disheartening to watch my home state transform from an affordable place to live into what it has become today. I have worked in numerous cities and states across the U.S. and Canada, but the Treasure Valley will always be my home, a place I want to preserve and share with my family and future generations.

Finding a vocation that speaks to more than simply a means to pay the bills is very important to me. At LEAP Housing, I have been afforded the tremendous opportunity to do both simultaneously.

Thea Stemple

My main responsibilities as the LEAP Impact Fund Administrator at leap housing are… 

LEAP Housing Impact Fund Administrator, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), created to help develop and preserve affordable housing throughout the state of Idaho by deploying capital to the communities and projects that we serve. My responsibilities are to ensure compliance with program guidelines, maintain metrics, based on outcomes, co-develop a pipeline of deployment opportunities as well as support fundraising efforts and resource growth through grant applications and other types of CDFI funding opportunities.

When I’m not working I am…

Enjoying the outdoors. Spending time with my two sons, and our two dogs. Listening to all kinds of music. I also love watching documentaries.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

One of my dearest dreams, in my early twenties, was to own my own home. I wanted to reach this goal by the age of thirty. In 2011 I purchased my first home, at the age of 29, for $145,000. It was a five bedroom, three bath house. My mortgage was $750 per month. I felt incredibly blessed. Today, in our local market, a home of this nature would cost close to $500,000, which is unattainable for most young households in the state of Idaho. My oldest son, who is now 21 years old, will not have the same housing opportunities that were available to me. LEAP not only creates affordable housing communities, they also assist individuals with realizing the dream of home ownership through down payment assistance programs, and low interest loans. This is something that is absolutely dear to me.

Kat Lange

My main responsibilities as senior accountant at leap housing are… 

As the Senior Accountant at LEAP Housing, my responsibilities are to manage the daily finances of the organization and help strengthen the financial foundation that supports our long term impact.

As a team we work hard to ensure funds received are managed responsibly, legally and ethically, so we can help as many people as possible find an affordable space they can call home.

When I’m not working I am…

When I am not at work, I am either outside on the greenbelt, hiking, or snowboarding. I also love building friendships in international communities.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

LEAP is changing the narrative. As a young professional, I have seen the hurdles of home ownership and the paralysis effect of high rental prices. LEAP provides a breakthrough which starts with the individual but trickles down to the neighborhood, community, and city. A one time investment with lasting effects. As a math girl, this is a favorable equation to me!

Tami Romine

My main responsibilities at leap housing are… 

I am a Community Manager at LEAP, responsible for maintaining single-family rental homes while supporting tenants as they transition toward homeownership. I bring more than thirty years of experience in operations, training, compliance, and property management for both conventional and program housing. My background in social communications, psychology, and education reflects my belief that when we take care of people first, success naturally follows. Maslow had it right.

When I’m not working I am…

Outside of work, I spend time with family and grandkids, volunteer in the community, read, write, watch football, and build LEGO creations. I look forward to returning to pool tournaments, whitewater fishing, and living in McCall someday. Most importantly, I start each day grateful to God for every opportunity.

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

I understand firsthand the challenges of financial and housing instability. That experience drives my passion for working at LEAP — an organization that turns compassion into practical solutions. I believe meeting basic needs is essential to helping people build stable, successful lives.

Shawn Hill

My main responsibilities as a workforce housing specialist are…

Shawn is an urban planner with more than two decades of experience in community planning, affordable housing policy, and conservation. He holds an MPA from the University of Wyoming and a BS in Urban Planning from the University of Utah. Shawn has served as Principal of Frontier Forward, where he focused on housing policy and public space planning, and he previously chaired the Teton County, Idaho Joint Housing Authority. His background includes work as a workforce housing consultant, Executive Director roles at various NGOs in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and municipal planning positions in Jackson, Wyoming and Summit County, Utah. Shawn is also the convener of the Mountain and Resort Town Planners Summit, an annual forum for resort towns in the Western US and Canada.

When I’m not working I am…

I’m in nonprofit, and specifically inspired by LEAP because…

____________________