Abilene People: Rosten Callarman

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Our guest on this episode of Abilene People is Rosten Callarman, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Abilene. Rosten introduces himself in simple but telling terms: “husband, dad, goofball, dreamer—working to end poverty.” That mix of humor and conviction captures who he is and why his work matters so deeply to our community. In this wide-ranging conversation, Rosten shares his bold vision for Habitat’s future in Abilene: building 160 homes in the next decade. This isn’t just about roofs and walls—it’s about transforming entire neighborhoods and strengthening the fabric of our city. He believes that when families have safe, affordable homes, the ripple effects touch education, health, opportunity, and hope. Rosten brings both heart and expertise to the role. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M University and a master’s in Christian Ministry from Abilene Christian University. But beyond academics, his career path has been deeply rooted in service. Before joining Habitat, he worked with several nonprofits focused on housing and homelessness—helping neighbors find stability and dignity when they had nowhere else to turn. That frontline experience gives him a perspective that is both practical and compassionate. In the episode, Rosten also talks about the shared responsibility of business leaders, banks, churches, and nonprofits in addressing poverty. He argues that solving complex issues like housing insecurity isn’t a matter of government versus private charity. Instead, it requires collaboration across every sector, with each playing a complementary role. Finally, Rosten reflects on the growing divide between wealth and poverty in America, and how Abilene can respond with creativity, generosity, and collective will. His vision is both ambitious and grounded… rooted in the belief that big dreams, backed by community effort, can change lives. This episode is a chance to hear from a leader who dreams large, laughs easily, and believes deeply that Abilene can rise to the challenge of ending poverty one home—and one neighborhood—at a time.