Our Board of Directors

Dwellings, a ministry of Alternative Missions, is led by a committed team. Our board gathers regularly to discuss new strategies for building homes and changing lives. They bring with them, years of experience and wisdom in their perspective fields. Together, their insight, direction and leadership have provided a strong base of success for Dwellings and positive life change for families that receive homes.

Tom Hackett - President

The founder of Alternative Missions/Dwellings, Tom has been leading ministry for over 30 years. he has established long-term works in Mexico, Honduras, Costa-Rica, Cuba and more. 

Jeff Vehrs - Treasurer

Jeff has served on the board of Alternative Missions/Dwellings for more than 15 years. His background as a missionary and general contractor has allowed him to bring wisdom and direction to this ministry. 

John Safarli - Secretary

John A. Safarli is an attorney and partner at Floyd, Pflueger & Ringer.  He defends corporations and government agencies before trial courts, appellate courts, and administrative agencies.

Brea Bursch

Brea Bursch is a photographer based in Everett, Washington specializing in newborn and maternity imagery. Brea has been serving the Pacific Northwest since 2008, and has grown into a Seattle local favorite photographer. 

Dr. David Spiro - vice president

Dr. Spiro is a board certified family practitioner who received both his undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Washington. He is also the medical director of a rural clinic in Honduras.

Jim Paris

Jim Paris is the founder/owner of Paris Plumbing in Seattle, Washington. Jim has been actively serving in churches and foreign ministry for many years. He has worked closely with Dwellings in Honduras, Cuba and Mexico.