ANDREW FREEMAN NAMED CEO OF SAFE HAVEN FAMILY SHELTER
ANDREW FREEMAN NAMED CEO OF SAFE HAVEN FAMILY SHELTER
Former YMCA Executive Director Brings Decades of Experience to Role
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 25, 2023) – Safe Haven Family Shelter, the premier shelter-to-housing program serving families experiencing homelessness in Middle Tennessee, today announced that Andrew “Drew” Freeman has been named the organization’s next CEO following a nationwide search.
“It is not often that you find a leader of Drew’s caliber and character,” said Edmundo Cepeda, Safe Haven’s board chair. “In 2022, Safe Haven provided an unprecedented amount of support to our community – 341 families, including 659 children, received services. Despite those achievements, there is still much work to be done, and I look forward to seeing Safe Haven continue to set the standard for helping families overcome homelessness with Drew at the helm.”
Freeman brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the role, having previously served as executive director of the Franklin Family YMCA in Franklin, Tenn., Hogan Family YMCA in Madison, Ala., and the Downtown Birmingham YMCA in Birmingham, Ala. During his eight-year tenure at the Franklin Family YMCA, he was known for his commitment to service, furthering the organization’s mission and driving positive workplace culture. Most recently, Freeman served as shelter manager and case manager at Safe Haven.
“It’s an honor and privilege to join an organization with Safe Haven’s rich history as we prepare to mark 40 years of serving families experiencing homelessness in our community,” Freeman said. “For me, Safe Haven’s mission is personal, and working hand in hand with our talented team, I am committed to working toward our vision of eliminating family homelessness.”
In addition to his vast nonprofit experience, Freeman brings deep community ties to Safe Haven. Freeman’s recent community involvement includes Rotary of Williamson County, Franklin Tomorrow and the Williamson County Black Business Coalition.
About Safe Haven Family Shelter
For nearly 40 years, Safe Haven has served as the premier shelter-to-housing program in Middle Tennessee that accommodates families experiencing homelessness. Safe Haven leads our community’s efforts to house, support, empower and advocate for families, allowing them to stay together. Transformative services focused on housing and employment provide families with the resources to become self-sufficient and successful. For more information, visit safehaven.org.
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