Gene Richards is a life-long Vermonter and has been a resident of Burlington for the past 28 years.

 

Gene’s accomplishments are many and varied.

 

Gene is currently CEO and Founder of Spruce Mortgage, the leading mortgage brokerage in the state.  

In addition, Gene is a project manager, consulting with homeowners in the construction of homes. Gene also has other business and consulting interests. As a popular landlord for the past 25 years, he enjoys his relationships with his 150 plus tenants.

Gene Richards III

CEO and Founder Spruce Mortgage

Gene spends much of his time “giving back” by working on behalf of many nonprofit organizations.  Gene currently serves on the Stern Center Board, the Lund Family Center Board, the Burlington Country Club Board and he is currently the President of the Burlington Tennis Club Board of Directors. Gene was appointed by Governor Douglas and serves on the State of Vermont Act 250 Commission. Gene also serves on the Burlington Airport Commission. Gene is also past Chair of the New England Red Cross Board and of the Vermont Red Cross Blood Services Board. Gene is also a past member of the Church Street Marketplace Commission. He remains an enthusiastic ambassador for the Red Cross and the Church Street Marketplace.

 

Gene is an Honorary Board Member of the Burlington Boys and Girls Club in recognition of his efforts in contributing to the resurrection of the Boys and Girls Club at a time of dire need for the Club. Gene is also a founding member of the Queen City Police Foundation and of the Church Street Marketplace Foundation.

 

A biography of Gene Richards would not be complete without a description of Gene’s indomitable spirit.  This spirit manifests itself most prominently in his devotion to community and family. Gene’s actions are always infused with a profound love and appreciation for the blessings this community has given to us all.  He has a deep desire to give back to the community in every way that he can.  This quality, coupled with Gene’s trademark determination and vigor which he brings to every task no matter how small, is the essence of Gene Richards as a person. Gene Richards is a good neighbor in the truest sense of the phrase.  Whether he is raising money for a non-profit or mowing his neighbor’s lawn, Gene does it with gusto.

2008 Nathan Harris Award