June 2, 2026 Awards, Community, Staff News
Habitat Philadelphia Volunteer Manager Joe Tatum Named PACDC Rising Star
Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia proudly celebrates Volunteer Manager Joe Tatum, a 2026 Rising Star Award recipient from the Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations (PACDC).
The award, presented at the PACDC Gala on May 14, recognizes emerging leaders who advance community development across Philadelphia.
Volunteer Manager Joe Tatum receives the Rising Star Award at the Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations 2026 Gala. From left: Jamila Harris-Morrison, PACDC Board President; Joe Tatum; Amarynth Ruch, Tacony CDC; Joanie Straussman-Brandon, NeighborWorks America; Rick Sauer, PACDC Executive Director. | Photo by Isaac Swartz Photography
At Habitat, Joe leads the organization’s volunteer program, connecting individuals, companies, and community partners to hands-on service that supports affordable homeownership. His approach centers on building meaningful connections—between volunteers, future homeowners, and the broader mission.
In 2025 alone, Joe and his team coordinated 76 volunteer events, engaging 1,324 volunteers who contributed more than 7,000 hours of service.
Joe leads the litany at a 2023 home dedication. | Photo by Habitat Philadelphia
Beyond the numbers, Joe is known for creating an inclusive volunteer culture rooted in equity and learning.
“Joe has transformed what volunteer engagement looks like at Habitat Philadelphia,” says Deidra Duncan, Director of Development. “He brings people into our work in a way that helps them understand why it matters and how they are part of something much bigger.”
Joe’s leadership is grounded in a simple idea: community development happens with people, not for them. As he reflects in the PACDC Journal, his role is to create connections that turn service into lasting impact—ensuring volunteers are part of something bigger than a single day on site.
Joe is one of two Rising Star honorees recognized by PACDC in 2026, highlighting the next generation of leaders shaping a more just and equitable Philadelphia.
PACDC Awardees also included:
Lifetime Achievement Award
Congressman Dwight Evans
Community Development Champions
Councilmember Jamie Gauthier
Council President Kenyatta Johnson
Karen Fegely, Commerce Department, City of Philadelphia
Yvonne Boye, Commerce Department, City of Philadelphia
Community Leaders
Gregory R. Benjamin, 51st Ward Leader
Equitable Entrepreneurs
Alia Sutton-Bey, A Sutton-Bey LLC
Jillian Bauer-Reese, Kensington Voice
Rising Stars
Amarynth Ruch, Tacony CDC
Joe Tatum, Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia
Blue Ribbon Finalists
Mi Casa Initiative, Xiente
Pushin Progress Philly, Nicetown CDC (winner)
Rev. Leon H. Sullivan Community Impact Center, Called to Serve CDC
Start 1-Esperanza Community Land Trust, Esperanza
We are proud to celebrate Joe and grateful for the leadership he brings to our mission every day.