NORWICH – The Christian Neighborhood Center of Norwich, Inc. – aka The Place – has named Courtney Crisler its new executive director.
Crisler – who replaced Dave Sheldon as director in mid-March – graduated from the California State University, Chico, Calif., in 2000, with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in recreation and administration. In July of 2010, she and her husband moved to Chenango County, where her extensive background in community outreach and non-profit work immediately drew her to The Place.
“When I saw this opportunity I thought ‘that sounds like my cup of tea,’” said Crisler. “I love the sense of community involvement here and it’s something I’m really passionate about. It’s been exciting meeting the people that make up this community, they’re so friendly and my husband and I feel very, very welcome.”
In the past, Crisler has worked with a number of non-profit and youth-based organizations, including the YMCA, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the American Diabetes Association, Camp Adventure and the American Red Cross. She’s also widely-traveled, having spent time overseas in both Japan and Germany.
Crisler said she “absolutely loves” the experiential learning aspect and atypical nature of the many programs offered at The Place, thanks to their flexible and creative nature. In addition, she said she’s excited to work with the various age-groups that participate within the organization.
As is typically the case with summer just around the corner, Crisler said The Place is currently seeking volunteers for many of its programs and special events, including the Kids In Direct Supervision (KIDS) program and the Summer Youth Volunteer and Employment Training programs. She called volunteerism at The Place an “opportunity for people of all ages, community-wide,” to get involved and inspire local youths.
Crisler said The Place is currently looking for volunteers able to teach a valuable skill or lead in fun, yet informative activities for its KIDS program. She added that – since so much of the programming at The Place is designed around the experiential learning model – volunteers who can provide hands-on learning in areas such as gardening, sewing, crafts, music, theater and more are an extremely valuable asset.
“We have many special events throughout the year and can always use volunteer support,” she added.
The roles a volunteer may fulfill, said Crisler, include event leadership and planning, public relations and marketing, set-up and break-down at special events and helping out behind the scenes with office work.
“We’re very excited to have Courtney as a part of the organization and we look forward to working with her and continuing to do the work that supports the mission and values of The Place,” said Karen Sastri, president of the organization’s Board of Directors. “Our youth are such an important part of our community, especially as they continue to live and grow up here.”
For more information on The Place or to volunteer, call 336-9696 or visit www.theplace-cncn.org.