The Board of Trustees of Hesed House announced today that they have selected an Executive Director to succeed Ryan Dowd.
Michael Cobb has dedicated his life—and career—to serving those who are less fortunate in our communities.
Prior to being named the Executive Director of Hesed House, Michael served as the Interim Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer for South Suburban PADS, an interfaith agency serving the homeless population in over 52 communities in suburban Cook County. While at PADS he oversaw the successful completion of a 77-unit Permanent Supportive Housing apartment complex specifically for those who are experiencing homelessness.
Before PADS, Michael served as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for the Glenwood School for Boys and Girls, a private residential/educational center for at-risk youth located in St. Charles. He served faithfully for 14 years with nine of those years leading the St. Charles campus.
Michael and his wife, Evelyn, are longtime residents of the Fox Valley. They are involved with various ministries and have a long standing commitment to serving in the Fox Valley Corridor. Michael received his Bachelor’s degree and Masters of Science in Management from National Louis University. Michael will begin work at Hesed House on Sept. 16, 2013. Ryan’s last day will be September 20, 2013.
Ryan Dowd has served as Executive Director of Hesed House for nine years and has been on staff for a total of fourteen years. Ryan has been beneficial to growing the ministries of Hesed House and was instrumental in the successful outcome of ending homelessness for several thousand homeless individuals and families in the Fox Valley area. Ryan plans on starting an organization called the Center for Faith and Human Rights that helps churches around the world (currently Zimbabwe and Burma) to respond to human rights by caring for victims and standing up to abusive governments. Part of that start-up organization requires a move to Washington, D.C., for Ryan and his family.
“It has been a joy and an honor to serve – with you – homeless families and individuals in our community for the past fourteen years,” noted Dowd upon reflection. “I look forward to seeing what Michael, the Hesed House team and valued supporters can accomplish over the next fourteen years!”
Reception for Welcome & Farewell / September 17
A reception will be held to greet the new Executive Director and say farewell to the current Executive Director from 5-7PM on Tues., Sept. 17, 2013, in the Grand Gallery at the Paramount Theatre, 23 East Galena Boulevard in Aurora.
Individuals interested in attending are asked to contact Mary Ensor at Hesed House at (630) 897–2156, ext. 537 by Sept. 11, 2013.
And did you know?
About Hesed House: Hesed House is a not-for-profit, 501c3 organization in Aurora, Illinois that provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, life-changing services and permanent supportive housing programs to combat homelessness in the greater Fox Valley area. For more information call Hesed House at (630) 897-2165 or visit their Website at www.HesedHouse.org.
Upcoming Fundraisers: Hearts for Hesed “Masquerade Party” will be held at Meson Sabika from 5-8PM on Sunday Oct. 6. Committee member Chris Cash adds that Hesed House is the second largest homeless shelter in the State of Illinois, and the largest shelter outside of the City of Chicago. This event will help men, women and children in our area receive the supplies and shelter they need. The event will be fun and filled with entertainment and great food. All you need to bring is a mask or purchase one at the event being made by Hesed House very creative residents. Cost is $85 per person.
On May 3, 2014 Hesed House will host its 3rd Annual Kentucky Derby Gala, a special benefit PN helped to promote in 2013. Save the date for an afternoon of fun as awareness and funds are raised for the unmet needs at Hesed House.
