ELKINS, W.Va. — As communities across north-central West Virginia continue working to address housing shortages, strengthen downtowns, and support locally owned businesses, Woodlands Development and Lending has expanded its leadership team to meet the growing demand for affordable housing and rural economic development.
The Elkins-based nonprofit announced the hiring of McLain Saba as deputy director and Lena Huynh as business services manager, saying the additions will strengthen its ability to finance housing projects, assist entrepreneurs, and guide community revitalization throughout the region.
The new appointments come as many West Virginia communities face a shortage of affordable housing while seeking to attract new businesses and retain workers. Local officials and economic development leaders increasingly identify housing availability as a critical factor in recruiting employers and supporting long-term economic growth.
Affordable housing and business growth remain key priorities
Woodlands partners with communities across north-central West Virginia to develop affordable housing, revitalize downtowns, build community capacity, and provide lending and technical assistance to small businesses.
Unlike traditional lenders, Saba says, community development financial institutions such as Woodlands often help finance projects that might otherwise struggle to secure conventional funding. Their work can include restoring historic downtown buildings, supporting workforce housing, and helping entrepreneurs navigate the financial and technical challenges of starting or expanding a business.
Organization leaders said that expanding the staff will enable Woodlands to scale that work while continuing to invest in projects that strengthen rural communities.
“The work Woodlands is doing at the intersection of community resilience and economic opportunity is invigorating,” Saba said.
“I am honored to join a team that prioritizes impact-driven growth and to apply my experience in strategy and sustainability to support our vibrant, inclusive regional economy. I look forward to cultivating strategic partnerships that ensure our lending and technical assistance programs deliver long-term value to our rural communities.”
Deputy director brings leadership experience
As deputy director, Saba will oversee the implementation of Woodlands’ lending mission, manage strategic operations, and help integrate technology and sustainable practices into the organization’s long-term development.
She previously held senior leadership roles in the financial services industry and in strategy consulting, focusing on organizational growth and innovation.
Current Deputy Director Karen Jacobson will transition to a part-time role as loan fund manager, focusing on raising capital and advancing special projects.
Supporting West Virginia entrepreneurs
Huynh will serve as business services manager, working directly with entrepreneurs and small business owners to provide technical assistance, help them navigate available resources, and strengthen the organization’s business support programs.
She brings experience in project management, operational improvement, data analysis, and organizational leadership.
“I’m excited to join Woodlands because this work brings together my professional experience in operations and problem-solving with my personal connection to West Virginia,” Huynh said. “I grew up here. My parents were small business owners here, and I understand how much heart, grit, and uncertainty can come with running a business.”
She hopes to make business assistance more accessible to entrepreneurs launching or growing companies throughout the region.
Investing in stronger rural communities
Executive Director Dave Clark said the addition positions Woodlands to expand its impact as communities continue to invest in affordable housing, downtown redevelopment, and economic opportunity.
“We are thrilled to welcome McLain and Lena to the Woodlands family,” Clark said. “McLain’s expertise in regional sustainability and strategic operations, combined with Lena’s passion for business growth and community engagement, will be instrumental as we scale our impact and continue to invest in the people and places of our region.”
The organization said the expanded leadership team arrives as Woodlands continues to develop affordable housing projects and rural revitalization initiatives while increasing support for developers, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs across North Central West Virginia.
As housing affordability and workforce development remain central concerns for communities across the state, organizations that combine financing with technical expertise are expected to play an increasingly important role in helping rural towns grow while preserving the character and vitality that define them.
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