April 2, 2015 – Carpenter’s Shelter Board of Directors announced today that Shannon Steene will join Carpenter’s Shelter as its new Executive Director, effective May 5, 2015. Steene brings almost 20 years of experience working with homeless populations.Steene is no stranger to Alexandria, having served as Executive Director of Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services, during which time the organization received the 2013 Washington Post Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Management and the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce’s 2012 Nonprofit of the Year.
Kerry Donley, Chair of the Carpenter’s Shelter search committee said, “We had many excellent candidates, but were particularly impressed by Shannon’s proven track record in using innovative ideas to grow and sustain nonprofit organizations.” Just prior to joining Carpenter’s Shelter, Steene served as the Member Engagement Director for Lutheran Services in America, a national organization of over 300 member nonprofits that address some of the country’s most pressing issues.
Carpenter’s Shelter has served homeless and formerly homeless individuals and families for over 25 years. Since its inception, it has grown to become one of the largest servicers for the homeless in Northern Virginia, serving more than 1,000 adults and children annually. Carpenter’s Shelter has long been recognized for its achievements and innovative approaches to addressing the root causes of homelessness. Today it is a national model for effective strategies and programming to prevent and end homelessness.
“Throughout the interview process I was impressed by the many innovative and forward thinking plans the organization has,” said Steene, “I think we’ll be an excellent fit for one another and I look forward to doing even greater things together.”
“We’re delighted to have Shannon on board; his ideas and energy will only add momentum to an already great organization,” said Matt Sheldon, Carpenter’s Shelter Board Chairman.