Open Doors, which includes The Open Doors Shelter, Smilow Life Center, and other supporting properties, has hired a seasoned area expert in the work of homelessness to take the helm of the organization. Michele Conderino, who is currently the Regional Director of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, will assume the role mid-June.
Following a five month nationwide search, where Open Doors met an impressive range of accomplished candidates, the Board of Directors unanimously agreed to invite Ms. Conderino, who has built a career advocating on behalf of those experiencing homelessness in Connecticut, to lead the organization’s next chapter. Ms. Conderino brings a clinical background to the role, including a Masters of Social Work with a concentration in Administration, along with a proven track record in successfully navigating the complex ecosystem of supportive services.
Board Chairman Jeff Erdmann offered this perspective: “Open Doors is an infectious place. My family and I have been a part of this community for over 26 years and we are thrilled to have someone as passionate and credible as Michele as our next leader. We have been fortunate in recent years to set an ambitious agenda and deliver on it; and I am confident under Michele’s stewardship, we can do so much more in the years ahead.”
Al Barber, President of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County Inc. echoed the endorsement, saying, “Michele has been a stellar member of the Fairfield County Catholic Charities team for the past decade and a half. I am very aware of the Open Doors program and I know Michele will add significant value to its mission. In addition, Catholic Charities and Open Doors have successfully collaborated on homeless issues for several years which will certainly continue.”
Ms. Conderino is being passed the torch from Corky Stewart, who stepped down from his Board Chairman role in order to serve as the Executive Director for the past 7 months. While Mr. Stewart’s role was always designed to be on an interim basis, his dedication to the staff, to the community, and to the clients that are served has had no bounds. Open Doors is fortunate to be surrounded by people with such commitment.
As Ms. Conderino commented on her arrival to Norwalk, it is clear she will bring her own infectious spirit to the work we do. “Open Doors plays such a critical role in the success and prosperity of Norwalk and I am excited to maximize the impact of this agency to improve the lives of everyone that crosses our thresholds.”
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About Open Doors
Open Doors is 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to eliminating the root causes of homelessness in Fairfield County. We understand that focusing not just on outcomes, but the paths each individual faces, enables us to provide solutions that are tailored to those that need them most. Thanks to the generous spirits of staff, volunteers, community partners, donors, advocates, government officials, board members, and countless others, we are a place where every single person who wants help can get it. Our doors are open 24/7/365 for everything from emergency needs to a sustainable way forward. We currently offer housing solutions, warm meals no matter the day, jobs training programs, and health care resources. Our case managers, the root of our approach, ensure that the right services are sourced to all.
