First Stop for the Homeless.
For many in our community, First Stop serves as the initial point of contact when seeking homelessness assistance for the homeless population. As a central hub of compassion and community support, 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.
Follow First Stop on social media to see the impact of our work, hear real stories from our community, and stay up to date on programs, events, and ways to get involved. Our channels offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we serve our neighbors and how the Tennessee Valley comes together to support one another.
board of directors
CRAIG SUMMER
GENA HAMILTON
GENA HAMILTON
Craig Sumner is our Board of Directors 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
GENA HAMILTON
GENA HAMILTON
GENA HAMILTON
Gena Hamilton is Senior Vice President at Premier Bank of the South in Huntsville, Alabama and also serves as the Vice-President of our Board of Directors. 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 G
Gena Hamilton is Senior Vice President at Premier Bank of the South in Huntsville, Alabama and also serves as the Vice-President of our Board of Directors. 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.
PAUL FREEMAN
GENA HAMILTON
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.
BOB HARWELL
JACOB BRIDGES
PAUL FREEMAN
First Stop board member Bob Harwell serves as Treasurer on the organization’s Board of Directors, helping guide the financial stewardship of the nonprofit’s mission to support individuals experiencing homelessness.
TIM DAVIS
JACOB BRIDGES
JACOB BRIDGES
Tim Davis, 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.
JACOB BRIDGES
JACOB BRIDGES
JACOB BRIDGES
Jacob serves on our Board of Directors, 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 board member, but a treasure to First Stop
MICHAEL SHIPLEY
WILLIAM MESSERVY
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
WILLIAM MESSERVY
MICHAEL SHIPLEY
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
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.
