Embracing the Journey: My New Chapter as Executive Director
Stepping into the role of Executive Director has been a mix of excitement, challenge, and opportunity. As I enter this new chapter, I am filled with a sense of purpose and commitment to the mission of Bridges Homeward. I believe in the power of servant leadership, which is not about authority, but about service to others. It is a commitment that I made to putting the needs of people we serve and our staff above all else. Through active listening, compassion, empathy, and an authentic desire to uplift those around us, we will show up as our best selves and unlock the full potential of our organization.
In this blog, I’d like to share some of my reflections over the last two weeks at Bridges Homewards, which have included meetings with staff, board members, funders, and partners.
My journey began with an agency-wide meeting on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, which helped me to understand how our staff deeply integrate DEI concepts into daily practices. As I engaged with staff members, I was struck by their core values, personal experiences, passion, and dedication to our mission. I found that our staff are incredible, upbeat, welcoming, and engaging. This open exchange of ideas and concerns demonstrated the growth and innovation within our organization.
I also had the opportunity to engage with a broader network of stakeholders, from board members to external partners and funders. I gained valuable perspectives on their expectations, while also sharing my vision for the organization's future. These important exchanges reconfirmed my belief in collaboration between leadership and governance.
After taking a step back to process the experiences of my first two weeks, I plan to set a clear vision for the organization and ensure day-to-day operations run smoothly. This requires a shift mindset of sharing power and a willingness to delegate effectively.
In closing, I want to express my gratitude for the warm welcome I received. I am eager to learn from each of you, to grow together, and to celebrate our 150th anniversary together in 2024.
