IMPACT
First Stop for the Community
For many in our community, First Stop serves as the initial point of contact when seeking to support the homeless population. As a central hub of compassion and assistance, individuals often turn to First Stop as their first step in making a difference.
Whether it’s donating a warm meal, volunteering your time, or donating critical supplies, First Stop provides a welcoming environment where community members can begin their journey of giving back. By reaching out to First Stop, individuals can ensure that their efforts are aligned with best practices and contribute to the collective mission of helping individuals out of homelessness.
Together with the City of Huntsville and other local organizations, First Stop facilitates meaningful pathways out of homelessness, making it the ideal starting point for anyone looking to make a positive impact in our community.
EMPOWERING CHANGE TOGETHER
Our Vision
To create pathways for homeless individuals to achieve independence and stability by providing essential resources, education, and wrap-around services that enhance their chances for long-term success.
Board of Directors
Tim Davis
Tim Davis, our Board President, brings decades of experience supporting the homeless. A USAF veteran, Tim has been with First Stop since 2016 and guides our team with vision and true servant leadership.
Craig Sumner
Craig Sumner is our Board of Directors Vice-President and a regular fixture at First Stop. A USAF veteran and former NASA engineer and director, Craig is deeply committed to the mission at First Stop and constantly helps it to succeed
Jacob Bridges
Jacob serves as our Board of Directors Treasurer, while active as Vice President of a local bank. All while building a family with his wife and young children. Jacob is not just a treasurer, but a treasure to First Stop
Paul Freeman
Paul Freeman is our Board of Directors' Secretary and has been on the board since 2016. He retired from several management and technical support jobs supporting the US Missile Defense programs. Paul continues to seek opportunities where First Stop can grow and expand its support through other significant initiatives.
Gena Hamilton
Gena Hamilton is Senior Vice President at Premier Bank of the South in Huntsville, Alabama. Gena is deeply engaged in the Huntsville community and has served in numerous leadership and volunteer roles with organizations including United Way of Madison County, Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville, and First Stop Inc.. Originally from Central Illinois, she enjoys spending time with her husband and four dogs, attending local Havoc hockey games, reading, Bible study, and running.
Michael Shipley
Michael brings his dedication to community outreach and service to his role on the Board of Directors, supporting the organization’s work with individuals experiencing homelessness. He is actively involved in local ministry efforts, including outreach coordination through the Episcopal Church of the Nativity that partners with First Stop on programs benefiting those in need
Chris Tatum
Chris Tatum serves on the Board of Directors, bringing his community insight and support to advancing services for individuals experiencing homelessness. In addition to his board role, Chris is a well-known Huntsville broadcast journalist and media personality, actively engaging audiences across North Alabama with local news and stories.
William Messervy
William Messervy is an attorney at Timberlake, League & Brooks. A native of Huntsville, he serves on the Board of Directors for First Stop, has held leadership roles with the Madison County Volunteer Lawyers Program, and teaches Torts at the Birmingham School of Law, reflecting his commitment to both legal excellence and community service.
Bob Harwell
First Stop board member Bob Harwell served as Treasurer on the organization’s Board of Directors, helping guide the financial stewardship of the nonprofit’s mission to support individuals experiencing homelessness.