Greenville Honors Local Hero Monroe Free with Order of the Palmetto Ahead of Retirement

Greenville Celebrates Local Hero: Monroe Free Honored with Order of the Palmetto

In a heartwarming ceremony held on December 4, the city of Greenville came together to celebrate a shining star in their community—Monroe Free, the beloved CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County. Known for his unwavering dedication to helping others, Free received the prestigious Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in South Carolina, awarded by the governor in recognition of remarkable service to the state.

A Fond Farewell

This special recognition was presented during an emotional event marking Free’s upcoming retirement. The celebration took place at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena, a venue that has hosted countless local events and serves as a hub for community activities. Richard Hagins, the board chair for Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, proudly presented the framed, commemorative proclamation to a visibly grateful Free, surrounded by family, friends, and supporters.

Monroe Free has been at the helm of the local Habitat organization since 2009, and his impact in the community has been nothing short of profound. Under his leadership, Habitat for Humanity has flourished, becoming a beacon of hope for families in need of affordable housing in the Greenville area. Now, as Free gears up to retire in 2024, community members reflect on the indelible mark he leaves behind.

A Career of Dedication

Before taking the reins in Greenville, Free spent two decades with various nonprofit organizations in Tennessee. His wealth of experience and passion for service has equipped him with the skills to navigate the complexities of nonprofit work, addressing the challenges faced by families struggling to find safe and affordable homes. Many recognize his contributions and tireless work ethic, which has helped to build not just houses but also a sense of community and belonging.

Transitioning Leadership

Looking ahead, Free’s successor, LaTonya Phillips, is set to take over the role of CEO at Habitat for Humanity. Phillips brings a rich background in nonprofit management and a fresh perspective that will likely continue the momentum established by Free. Many in the community are excited to see how she will shape the future of the organization and further enhance its mission to provide housing solutions for those most in need.

A Grateful Community

The event not only served as a farewell to Monroe Free but also as a celebration of the lives he has touched along the way. It was a heartfelt gathering, filled with stories, laughter, and tears, as friends and supporters shared their memories of Free’s unwavering commitment to making a difference. His legacy of love and support will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.

As Free wraps up his time with Habitat for Humanity, he leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and community spirit. His work stands as a testament to what can be achieved when one person dedicates their life to helping others. For the people of Greenville, Monroe Free is more than just a leader; he is a local hero who has changed lives for the better.

The Next Chapter

In the coming months, as Monroe Free prepares for retirement, the community looks forward to honoring his contributions while also welcoming LaTonya Phillips into her new role. While the shoes Free leaves behind may be large to fill, the core mission of Habitat for Humanity will undoubtedly remain steadfast in its commitment to creating a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

For many, the moment marks the end of an era, but more importantly, it signifies the beginning of new opportunities for the future of affordable housing in Greenville.