Staff Contacts
Denise Gathman dg@communitynhs.org
HomeOwnership Center Director 651-292-8710 ext. 214
Denise Gathman has been involved in community development, home ownership education and low-income lending for 20 years. She joined CNHS in 2002 as the education program manager and left in the winter of 2004 to become a Peace Corps Volunteer. Once finished with her volunteer service, Denise returned to CNHS to manage the home improvement loan programs and over-see the NeighborWorks Home Ownership Center. Denise is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and has completed her course work for Master of Arts in Leadership at the College of St. Catherine. Denise holds several professional certificates.
Laurence Mundt lm@communitynhs.org
Business and Portfolio Manager 651-292-8710 ext. 208
“For the past 12 years I’ve handled the finances, the loan portfolio, and the business aspects at CNHS. During this time the agency has grown both in revenues and in staff resources. Prior to coming to CNHS, I managed a Radio Shack store. Most recently I’ve changed the format of our financial reporting and solidified our loan portfolio by lowering the delinquency rate. I’m married and have two cats.”
Matt Brown mb@communitynhs.org
Home Improvement Specialist 651-292-8710 ext. 204
"I was a contractor for many years prior to the last eight years in nonprofit affordable housing, five years supervising construction of houses for Habitat for Humanity, three years at my current position as construction manager and rehab specialist here at CNHS. I maintain a contractors license and continue to take training in all aspects of the construction field. "
Jocelyn Sweet van Toor jv@communitynhs.org
HomeStretch Coordinator and Pre-purchase Counselor 651-292-8710 ext. 203
Prior to being a HomeOwnership Counselor for Community Neighborhood Housing Services, Jocelyn Sweet van Toor worked as a community organizer on Saint Paul’s West Side for three years empowering residents to improve neighborhood safety, block-by-block. She spent many years in The Netherlands as a contracts administrator and has a bachelor’s degree in English from Macalester College. She lives close to work with her family that includes two kids, three cats, a rescued bordie collie mix and a wily Italian Greyhound.
Tasha Merritt tm@communitynhs.org
651-292-8710 ext. 207
"I am happy to be a part of such a great organization working as a homeownership advisor. Prior to my current position, I served on the board for Community NHS for four years. I was a member of the loan committee and briefly held the position of board treasurer. I have more than 14 years of experience in the housing industry having worked in real estate sales, low income and market rate property management, as well as, case management for a local housing authority. I firmly believe that education creates empowerment. I feel very lucky to work in a position that allows me to do what I love, assist clients through the homeownership process."
Sandy Ajasa sa@communitynhs.org
Mortgage Loan Processor, Closer and Investor of Sales 651-292-8710 ext. 209
"I previously worked as a loan documentation specialist for a Fortune 500 Company. I was also a processor for a small mortgage company in Virginia, MN. I’ve worn many hats and held different positions over the years within several financial institutions. However, I feel that working within the mortgage industry has been the most rewarding. It’s a great feeling knowing that someone’s dreams, of becoming, a homeowner has finally been achieved. I feel that it’s a privilege to work with a community based organization such as Community NHS. The services that CNHS offers are always geared towards the needs of the homebuyer. I enjoy being active within my community. I was a previous volunteer for Meals on Wheels in Northern MN. My spare time is spent volunteering at my children’s school, spending time with friends and family."
Nancy Alvarez na@communitynhs.org
Administrative Assistant 651-292-8710 ext. 200
"Hello! My name is Nancy Alvarez born and resided in El Paso, TX, for most of my life, became an instant Minnesotan in 1995. I come from a large Hispanic family of seven, and have two sons, and five granddaughters. My background comes with intense obsession to help with-in my community. My passion is to serve and help others so that they may advance within their lives! Working with Community NHS, gives me that opportunity."
Robin Bristol rb@communitynhs.org
651-292-8710 ext. 202
"Every day is a new day for me at CNHS. I have a flexible schedule and am able to facilitate the completion of complicated projects. I've had a variety of past employment experiences so I'm able to use a number of past skills. I'm a recent grandmother with another grandchild on the way. If you need help determining what home improvement services are a priority on your house, CNHS can help. Our experienced staff can develop a scope of work for you and determine what it will cost."
