PADS Lake County welcomes new executive director to lead transformative initiatives
The PADS Lake County Board is proud to announce the appointment of Allen Swilley as its new executive director. With an extensive background in nonprofit leadership spanning over 15 years, Allen brings a wealth of experience and a passion for effecting positive change within organizations that he has worked with.
Previously with Thrive Chicago, Allen led the Barack Obama Foundation's "My Brother's Keeper" Chicago initiative, where he skillfully orchestrated the collaboration of more than 65 organizations to collectively work and create more navigable institutional and community environments for boys and young men of color in Chicago. Embracing the belief that nonprofits exist to serve those most affected by unbalanced systems, Allen has made it his life's mission to help overhaul these systems and eradicate deeply rooted social problems.
Allen's dedication to addressing systemic issues is evident in his track record. Prior to his tenure at Thrive Chicago, he worked to rally communities in response to challenges like homelessness, affordable housing, and educational disparities among low-income and non-low-income students.
During his time as the director of Interim Housing and Outreach at DuPage Pads, Allen played a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions about homelessness. His efforts helped secure $7 million of funding for DuPage County's largest-ever fixed-site shelter. Additionally, he was instrumental in fostering community support for the creation of 111 units of affordable housing in Rogers Park through the city's inaugural public-private real estate partnership.
Allen's commitment to ongoing education to complement his vital work in the community is evident through the degrees he has acquired including an MBA from Roosevelt University, an MSC from Northwestern University, and his current work toward, a doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago.
Taking the helm as Executive Director of PADS Lake County on Aug. 28, Allen is set to leverage his rich experience in homeless services and community organization. He aims to work collaboratively with the PADS team to develop a comprehensive network of accessible resources that will support clients moves out of homelessness.
"I am humbled and excited to collaborate with this passionate team committed to transforming the lives of those affected by poverty and homelessness. PADS Lake County's pioneering efforts stand as a beacon of change addressing housing insecurities and homelessness at their core and working toward a more equitable future for all," says Allen.
"We are excited to welcome Allen as he leads the organization forward at a transformational period such as this, with immense opportunities and challenges for growth, philanthropy, and impact," said Kevin Woodside, PADS Board President.
For information, please contact: Eric Foote, interim executive director @efoote@padslakecounty.org.
About PADS Lake County: PADS Lake County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, support services and resources to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Lake County. With a focus on empowerment and lasting solutions, PADS Lake County aims to create a positive impact and a brighter future for those in need.