After 25 years as Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s (mtko.org) executive director, Susanne Blue has announced her plan to retire this summer. Blue will step away from leading the nonprofit on August 23, according to Alynn Sampson, president of Matt Talbot’s Board of Directors.
During her long tenure as executive director, the organization grew from a volunteer-led soup kitchen to a community kitchen and outreach center with 25 professional staff offering housing, case management, outreach, substance use and nutrition programming for families and individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. As a professional social worker, the programs implemented under Blue’s leadership were based on research and best practices to comprehensively address identified community needs.
Throughout her career, Blue has been a strong advocate for the most vulnerable in our community by actively addressing issues of homelessness, hunger, poverty, affordable housing and mental health.
“Susanne is known for her service, hard work, leadership and countless prayers,” said Sampson. “She has established a lasting culture of hope, dignity, encouragement and community among Matt Talbot’s volunteers, guests and staff – a gift to our entire community and we are so grateful.”
The board has formed a transition committee and will begin the process of filling this position as soon as possible.
For the past 30 years and counting, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach has been helping individuals and families facing poverty and homelessness find possibilities when things seem impossible. Learn more at mtko.org.