News Summary
The Homeless Leadership Alliance (HLA) in Pinellas County has appointed Cheri Holzbacher as interim CEO, replacing Aaron Swift. Holzbacher aims to enhance the organization’s stability and efficiency amid ongoing homelessness challenges, which have been exacerbated by recent hurricanes and leadership turnover. With a strong focus on preventing, diverting, and ending homelessness, the HLA hopes to address systemic issues impacting community well-being and safety. The community looks to Holzbacher’s leadership for sustainable change and effective solutions to homelessness in the region.
New Leadership Aims to Tackle Homelessness Challenges in Pinellas County
PINELLAS COUNTY – A Bold New Chapter for the Homeless Leadership Alliance
In the wake of significant changes at the top, the Homeless Leadership Alliance (HLA) in Pinellas County has welcomed its new interim CEO, Cheri Holzbacher. With a wealth of experience and a track record that includes securing over a billion dollars in funding, Holzbacher replaces Aaron Swift as the fourth chief executive in just under three years. The HLA is the leading agency dedicated to addressing homelessness in the area, and under Holzbacher’s guidance, the organization is aiming to provide much-needed stability during a time of crisis.
The winds of change blew through the HLA not just in its leadership but also in its mission. Holzbacher, who stepped into the interim role just five days post a crucial Pinellas Continuum of Care (CoC) meeting, firmly believes in the HLA’s focus on preventing, diverting, and ending homelessness. This approach is more vital than ever as recent surveys have shown that around 2,110 individuals experienced homelessness in Pinellas County as of January 2024. Meanwhile, the previous year saw over 3,500 local children facing unstable housing situations.
Turning the Tide Amidst Leadership Instability
One of the most pressing concerns for the HLA and its board, now headed by Kimberly Rogers as chair and Nick Carey as vice chair, is the high turnover in leadership. This instability has posed a threat to the trust and momentum necessary for effectively addressing homelessness. Holzbacher joined the HLA in July 2024, and her commitment is to stabilize the organization while enhancing its efficiency and effectiveness.
The latest developments stemmed from concerns raised by County Commissioner Vince Nowicki about the possible revocation of the HLA’s status as the lead agency—something that certainly opened a floodgate of urgency for leadership change. Though Holzbacher did not initially set out to fill the role of interim CEO, she recognized the need to steady the ship during such tumultuous times.
Systemic Issues and Community Impact
Holzbacher is keenly aware that homelessness is not just an individual plight—it’s a symptom of broader systemic issues affecting community health, safety, and economy. The HLA is not in the business of merely applying quick fixes, but rather in searching for long-term solutions that pave the way for sustainable change.
As Holzbacher brings her personal passion for housing rights to the forefront, she may be a strong candidate for the permanent CEO position as the organization embarks on a thoughtful search process. The HLA recognizes that real progress requires collaboration, both within the agency and throughout the community.
Weathering the Storm
In addition to the organizational challenges, there have been pressing external issues. Recent hurricanes have escalated the demand for services among those experiencing homelessness, pointing to a greater need for resources. Repair costs needed to fix damages in Pinellas Hope could reach about $100,000, while necessary prevention measures could go as high as $700,000.
Experts like Mark Cooper from St. Vincent De Paul CARES have noted an increasing demand for assistance, illustrating how complicated the landscape of homelessness has become, especially amid natural disasters.
With Holzbacher at the helm, the HLA is positioning itself to tackle these challenges head-on, working closely with its partners and the community to foster trust, build collaborative efforts, and ultimately develop real solutions. It’s a critical time for Pinellas County, where every step taken can have a monumental effect on countless lives.
In the days and weeks ahead, all eyes will be on the Homeless Leadership Alliance as it tries to redefine its path and continue its essential mission to serve those in need. The community will be hoping for a positive turnaround as new strategies are put into action.
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Interim CEO of Homeless Leadership
- Fox 13 News: Homelessness in Pinellas County Report
- TBB Business: Metropolitan Ministries & YMCA Expansion
- WTSP: Homelessness in Pinellas County
- ABC Action News: Increase in Need for Homeless Services
- Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
