By Tia McCoy, Atlanta Habitat Director of Neighborhood Engagement
For seven years, I’ve served as the Director of Neighborhood Engagement for Atlanta Habitat, building bridges between families, neighbors, and civic leaders in the communities where we build and preserve homes.
On paper, it might sound like community liaison work. But in my heart, I know it’s more than a job — it’s a calling.
The difference between a job and a calling is more than words. With a job, the tasks get done and the boxes are checked so the bills can be paid. Sometimes it’s just a means to an end.
But a calling? A calling is fueled by purpose and passion. It aligns with your deepest values, brings meaning to your days, and challenges you to show up fully — because you know the work matters.
This work is life changing — and sometimes the life that changes most is your own.
So whether I’m teaching a class about what it means to be a good community citizen or helping program participants choose a lot for their new home, I know we’re doing more than just building houses. We’re transforming generations through the power of homeownership.
Black Philanthropy Month reminds me that giving isn’t always about writing a check. It’s also about giving the things that are the most precious to us – like time, talent and heart. It’s about investing in people — neighbors, volunteers, partners — so they can thrive and lead in their own right.
And when purpose drives your work, every task becomes an act of service.
As a Black woman in this work, I carry the history and legacy of those who have served before me. While they may have lacked resources, I’m sure they had an abundance of faith and determination.
Every day, I lead with the question: “How can I improve this experience for the person in front of me?”
Sometimes that person is a new homeowner beaming with excitement and nerves. Other times, it’s a volunteer giving up their Saturday to swing a hammer. Or it might be a city partner committed to solving a neighborhood challenge. Whoever it is – no matter the details – I know that each interaction is an opportunity to lead with compassion, purpose, and respect.
This work is not without its challenges, but it’s always worthwhile. Because at Atlanta Habitat, we aren’t just building homes—we’re building hope. We’re building a foundation for stronger families, safer neighborhoods, and a better future for our city.
And for me, that’s not just a job. It’s my calling.
About Tia McCoy
Tia McCoy is the Director of Neighborhood Engagement with Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, leading the nonprofit organization’s efforts to be a catalyst for community building and revitalization in the City of Atlanta and South Fulton County.
As a self-motivated, inspirational leader, Tia plays an integral role shaping the lives of aspiring homeowners who must take 17 classes and complete 250 ‘sweat equity’ hours as part of their homeownership journey. With 25 years of experience administering federal housing programs and implementing community development initiatives, Tia has led teams of housing professionals, interns, and volunteers; created outcome-based performance measurements; and designed personal and professional training for managers using engaging instructional or coaching methods. She also has experience establishing and maintaining interpersonal and inter-group relationships, meeting goals and managing budgets.
Tia earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Kentucky and she is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
