As during the previous two decades, Interfaith Housing Services went through many changes from 2011 through 2020. One of those changes was an extensive transition in leadership development, incorporating a new business model for management and growth. We were introduced to the principles taught by Leadership Reno County, the Kansas Leadership Center, and NeighborWorks America Achieving Excellence Program. As we applied and practiced these principles, our vocabulary and way of thinking began to change. We transitioned to responding to issues adaptively, looking at an issue from all angles and embracing the challenge to include unusual voices and different perspectives. This has had a reformative impact on hiring staff, selecting board members and forming our committees, all of which are such a big part of the growth here at Interfaith.
Another piece of this transition was the creation of the Leadership Team, which was made up of all program and department directors. With this in place, responsibility for the success of the organization no longer rested solely on one person’s shoulders. It was a collaborative effort that saw several years of growth and expansion for Interfaith and for individual team members.
By the mid to late 2010’s, the face of Interfaith was changing. John Scott, CEO of Interfaith, retired. While everyone wished him well, the impact was felt. His knowledge and devotion to Interfaith were irreplaceable. We were so blessed that our Board of Directors at the time devoted themselves to guide the organization through the difficult transition. As these changes were taking place, several valued employees moved on to other pursuits, while the roles and responsibilities changed for many of those who remained. However, with the continued support of our Board and faithful donors, together with m