Homes first board
PRESIDENT
Thomasina Cooper
Fair Manager, Thurston County Fair & Events
Joining the Board in 2019, Thomasina has a heart for service and uses her talents every day as Manager of the Thurston County Fairgrounds & Event Center.
As the former executive assistant to Thurston County Commissioner Tye Menser, she helped citizens problem-solve issues, ensures the commissioner is successful, manages independent projects, and participates in county-wide programs.
Thomasina was the Board Secretary for three years and as Vice President for the last two, she brings nearly two decades of non-profit experience, in which she wore many hats.
From reception to program manager to development assistant and finally development director, she is familiar with both programmatic and administrational facets of non-profit management. Working in substance use prevention and domestic violence crisis response agencies taught Thomasina how to stay grounded even in the most challenging moments.
She is proud to continue her non-profit service as a Board member for Homes First.
Thomasina shares her Olympia home with her husband Jim, daughter Maggie, and rescue dog Rusty. An avid gardener, traveler, and photographer, Thomasina is most happy when adventuring with her family in their camper trailer.
VICE PRESIDENT
Danielle Bryant
Director of Diversity & Inclusion in Education, ESD 113
Danielle Bryant joined Homes First in January 2024. As the new Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Education she has a dynamic background spanning science, education, and non-profit work, Bryant brings a unique perspective and a commitment to positive change in our educational communities.
Danielle's immediate plans include extensive engagement with various ESD programs and school districts in our region to understand their unique needs and to infuse a DEI perspective into their operations.
Danielle tells us that "Making change is important to me. Being at a place where teams can make that change and are willing to make that change is important. It took me my lifetime to figure that out."
TREASURER
Olivia Hickerson
Founder/CEO, Empower Tactics
A welcome addition to our Board of Directors in January 2024, Olivia worked for a short time as the Executive Director of Sidewalk after two years at Skagit Friendship House, a shelter in Mount Vernon. She also has her undergraduate degree in social science and government from Liberty University in Virginia.
Olivia brings knowledge of the nonprofit sector and homeless services that will serve our participants and organization well. She is passionate about our mission, vision, and values and hopes to help Homes First increase our reach and serve more people who need homes they can afford.
SECRETARY
Harry Henneck
Realtor, Compass Real Estate
Harry Henneck was raised in Elma, Washington, where his connection to community and the local real estate market first took shape. With 20 years of experience in the title and escrow industry, including many years as a top-performing escrow officer. Harry brings extensive knowledge of real estate documents, closing processes, and client support. Now a licensed Washington State REALTOR®, he blends technical expertise with a genuine commitment to serving others.
Harry joined the Homes First Board in May 2025 and serves as Co-Chair of the Resource Development Committee. He chose to serve with Homes First because he believes deeply that housing for all is the foundation for a better future. For Harry, stable housing opens the door to education and education creates pathways to sustainability, health, wealth, and long-term happiness. This belief guides his approach to leadership and drives his dedication to expanding housing access across Thurston County.
Known for his collaborative nature and his ability to build meaningful relationships, Harry approaches each role with purpose and heart. Whether supporting clients, advocating for housing equity, or contributing to organizational growth, he is committed to helping individuals and families thrive.
Outside of real estate and board service, Harry stays engaged in his community through additional leadership roles and volunteer work, always keeping connection and service at the center of everything he does.