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Central City Concern Honors Retiring Executive Director Ed Blackburn

Central City Concern Leadership past and present: Ed Blackburn, President & CEO Emeritus, Rachel Solotaroff, MD, President & CEO, Richard Harris, past Executive Director

Portland, OR. Nearly 800 community members came together in downtown Portland to honor outgoing Central City Concern President & CEO Ed Blackburn. It was a heartfelt sendoff that featured like-minded leadership ranging from past clients to current elected officials. Blackburn was honored by Rachel Solotaroff, MD, President & CEO and Richard Harris, past Executive Director. The event also raised $300,000 to support critical programs that help accelerate the move to self-sufficiency for people who access Central City Concern’s housing, health care, and employment programs. “Compassion in Action” was the theme for the fundraiser on October 10th at the Portland Hilton. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus)

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley sharing a connection between Ed Blackburn and the story of The Good Samaritan.

Mayor Ted Wheeler acknowledging Ed Blackburn’s dedication, compassion, and commitment to serving others for his entire career.

Israel Bayer, Executive Director, Street Roots, Ed Blackburn, President & CEO Emeritus, Central City Concern, Sandra McDonough, President & CEO, Portland Business Alliance

From Central City Concern:

Proceeds from the Compassion in Action Campaign will be used to support critical programs that help accelerate the move to self-sufficiency for people who access Central City Concern’s housing, health care, and employment programs. At Central City Concern, we don’t just put a roof over someone’s head. We give individuals the life and work skills they need to remain housed, healthy, and self-sufficient for the long term.

More information at: http://www.centralcityconcern.org/

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.