Building community with Joel Tanasse
May 27, 2023
A dedicated member of BIAW and the Home Builders Association of Tri- Cities (HBATC), Joel Tanasse of Fred’s Appliance in Kennewick has made significant contributions to the Tri-Cities community for over 25 years.
A graduate of Washington State University, Tanasse grew up in Stevenson, Wash., before moving to the Tri-Cities, where he has resided for the last 34 years. Before starting with Fred’s Appliance 13 years ago, he spent 12 years at Sears Commercial.
25 years of dedication
In the fall of 1997, Tanasse joined the HBATC after being introduced to the organization by long-time member Don Cash, who Tanasse replaced upon being hired by Sears. He was already familiar with the association because his father, Cliff Tanasse, was heavily involved with the Central Washington Home Builders Association (CWHBA).
The following year, Tanasse joined the HBATC board of directors, which he still serves today.
Tanasse’s commitment to serving the community is evident through his many years of service on HBATC’s Community Service Committee. The committee works to share donations to charitable organizations in the Tri-Cities area.
When asked what he has found to be the most valuable part of his membership over the years, he said, “The relationships, both professional and personal (some even both).”
Since joining, Tanasse has served on the Membership Appreciation Committee, which he has chaired for six years. He has also served on the Golf Tournament Committee and participates in many HBATC events. At BIAW, Tanasse served as Second Vice President in 2010 and 2016. His help recruiting more members has earned him the status of Super Spike, with 401 Spike credits.
Contributions rewarded
Tanasse’s dedication and hard work over the years have not gone unnoticed. At the 2022 BIAW Fall Board of Meeting, Tanasse was honored with the Associate Appreciation Award. The HBATC proudly nominated him for the award because of his “significant contributions and continuous dedication to the association.”
His extensive experience and leadership have helped to guide the association’s growth and development, ensuring that it remains a strong and effective advocate for the building industry in Tri-Cities.
Tanasse embodies Fred’s Appliances’ commitment to quality and service. With over 40 quality brands and over 14,000 items in stock, Fred’s Appliance offers an unparalleled selection of products.
“Working in the building industry, being a part of building communities and fighting to keep housing affordable is so rewarding,” Tanasse said.