YAKIMA, Wash. -- Steve Luten has been named the new executive director for Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity.

He will start his job Monday, replacing Mike Nixon, who is retiring after six years at the helm of the nonprofit that helps low-income families build their own homes.

Luten has more than 15 years experience working with nonprofits. He previously worked for Mending Wings Ministries, an American Indian youth organization in the Yakima Valley. He also has served as an area director for three separate regions of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Luten, 41, lives in Wapato with his wife, Karen, and three children. He holds a master's degree in business administration from Washington State University.

Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity has organized the construction of 128 homes since 1985.