Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County thrives on the diversity of experiences and backgrounds, unified by a shared love for our community and the life-changing impact of homeownership. Central to this mission are passionate individuals like ReStore Manager, Jessica Grannan. Through her expertise, dedication, and creativity, she infuses life into ReStore and paves the way for countless lives on the journey to owning a home.
Jessica, or better known as Jess, our dynamic ReStore Manager, is not your average manager. She’s a curious soul who navigates life with an infectious passion for the unusual and the creative. Her eclectic interests range from gardening and animal care to various art forms and medieval fashion and her creativity shines through her imaginative projects.
From chicken coops with gingerbread details to greenhouses made of recycled windows and claw foot tubs, she transforms reclaimed items into marvelous spaces. Her unique touch also extends to crafting terrariums from old light fixtures, creating enchanting microcosms within glass enclosures. Jess’s projects have an antique spunk to them—simply because it is her hope that her family, animals, and plants have an inspiring space to thrive.
Within the walls of ReStore, Jess’s passion for creativity connects with her commitment to empowering future homeowners, guiding them toward their 250 sweat equity hours. She watches with pride as they grow from uncertainty to self-assuredness, finding a sense of belonging within the ReStore family. For Jess, ReStore is more than just a workplace; it’s a sanctuary where people grow, learn, and embrace their unique potential.
To Jess, community is a circle of kindred spirits, a supportive haven where ideas, entertainment, and friendship flow freely. Influenced by people like Miss Lola (the storyteller and librarian at her childhood public library who taught her there is always more to a story than what’s written on the pages), Sister Dorothy (a first-grade teacher who meticulously taught patience but concluded the day with the Chicken-Dance and polka music), and her nature-loving father, Jess values the wisdom passed down through generations. She cherishes the knowledge of professors, the boundless curiosity of her children, and her small army of friends who believe in her strength and resilience.
Jess’s passions are as diverse as they come—she loves Indiana University basketball and once dreamed of being an astronaut. In high school, she wanted to be a multimedia artist, imagining a life with sheep and horses. If given the choice, she’d dress in medieval clothing every day. Jess enjoys operas, musicals, and loud concerts, and oddly enough, she finds peace in the heat of hot summer days.
For Jess, home is a sanctuary of calm and creativity, a place where she can fully embrace her passions and quirks. It is where her body relaxes, her mind wanders, and she can create at her own pace. Home is where she can be herself, whether it’s dancing naked or enjoying the presence of her family. It’s a space where music plays, food and flowers grow, and animals roam freely—and where the day finds its peaceful end.
This sentiment resonates with Habitat’s mission to provide affordable housing, enabling families and individuals to experience peace and belonging within their homes. Through her creativity, mentorship, and spirit, Jess embodies the essence of ReStore, transforming spaces and lives, one reclaimed treasure at a time.
