OPELIKA – During Tuesday’s Opelika Council meeting, Councilmember Leigh Whatley, accompanied by Council President George Allen and Mayor Eddie Smith, recognized Mark Grantham for demonstrating this month’s character trait of commitment.
“I’m honored to award Mark Grantham with the Commitment Character Trait of the Month. Mark is not just a dedicated public servant; as a neighbor for over 25 years, he has become a dear friend to my family and me. He has spent more than 30 years investing himself in the community. As a business leader, church member, and volunteer, he continuously shows up to make a difference.
After spending over 25 years in retail management, Mark found his true calling in building homes and fostering hope right here in Auburn and Opelika. For the past 18 years, he has served as the Executive Director of Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity. Under his leadership, the organization has not only grown but also transformed lives.
Recently, we celebrated the groundbreaking of Homes 80, 81, and 82 in partnership with the City of Opelika, Stone Martin Builders, trade professionals, and East Alabama Health,” said Whatley as she honored Grantham on behalf of the council.
Grantham and his wife, Susie, are proud residents of Opelika and active members of Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church.
“Together, they have raised a family of six children and four grandchildren. He is humble and quick to credit his team instead of himself. Anyone who knows him or works with him is familiar with his strong work ethic. He never takes the credit for himself, always attributing accolades to others. He genuinely believes that every home built by Habitat is a partnership, which is why he never misses an opportunity to thank the city of Opelika.
Mark, thank you for your commitment, leadership, friendship, and dedication to the community. It is my honor to call you a neighbor and a friend, and it is the city’s privilege to recognize you tonight,” added Whatley.
Mayor Eddie Smith also acknowledged Grantham’s contributions.
“It is a great pleasure to recognize you and your remarkable character in the city of Opelika. Your kind deeds toward our community have not gone unnoticed. We hope that others will see your positive actions and be inspired to follow your example. Please feel encouraged to continue making a difference in Opelika and beyond,” said Smith.”It is a great pleasure to recognize you and your remarkable character in the city of Opelika. Your kind deeds toward our community have not gone unnoticed. We hope that others will see your positive actions and be inspired to follow your example. Please feel encouraged to continue making a difference in Opelika and beyond,” said Smith.
