A Vernon social agency is shifting leadership.
Rick Lavin has retired as executive director of the Upper Room Mission and those duties will be taken over by existing employees Lisa Anderson and Lisa Church.
“We’ve gone from being an organization that’s struggling to one that’s a leader and an example of how non-profits can succeed,” said Lavin, who joined URM in 2014.
Anderson will oversee retail operations and media relations, while Church will be responsible for human resources and food services.
“They both have great strengths and we know they’re going to make a great team,” said Dustin Griffin, board chairperson.
Anderson is the former director of resource development and has been with URM since 2012.
“Through the partnerships and community support Rick has created, he’s set us up well to be able to continue succeeding with our mission to feed people who are hungry,” said Anderson.
Church joined URM in 2016 with 25 years of experience managing staff and food services in the hospitality industry.
“I’m looking forward to growing our team and even further strengthening our relationships in the community,” said Church.
The Upper Room Mission is hosting a farewell event for Lavin May 29 from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
