BIG ISLAND, Va.––The Society of St. Andrew (SoSA) is seeking a new executive director.
The executive director will manage a staff of about 27 full-time and 30 part-time employees and work with the Board of Directors to raise funds, execute programs and oversee all functions of the organization.
Gil Hanke, top staff executive of the General Commission on UM Men and former chairman of the SoSA Board of Directors, is seeking the help of UM Men to find a replacement for Steven (Mike) Waldmann, a 30-year volunteer and employee who was elected to the top staff executive position following the resignation of the Rev. Ken Horne Jr., one of the founders of the ministry.
The General Commission on UM Men has been one of the chief supporters of the 40-year effort to feed the poor with millions of pounds of food left on farmer’s fields.
“Mike has done an exceptional job,” says Hanke. “He and I worked closely together, and I learned a great deal from watching him skillfully manage this organization with a small local staff, deployed part-time staff and thousands of volunteers. He has taken this non-profit to new heights of service to those who need to be fed both physically and spiritually.”
Hanke notes that the society is an affiliate partner with the Nashville-based General Commission on UM Men. “This means we have share a very special relationship, with the society, and there is a reserved seat on the SoSA Board for the president of the National Association of Conference Presidents of UM Men (NACP).”
It was in the capacity of NACP president that Hanke first served on the SoSA board (2000-2004). In 2009, he was again elected to the board and has served as chairman for the past several years. His term on the board concluded on Dec. 31, 2015, but he continues as a member of the team searching for a new executive.
Through the “Meals for Millions” program, local units of UM Men and annual conferences raise thousands of dollars for SoSA. In addition, many local, district and conference UM Men organizations sponsor “produce drops” and gleaning events; both events get fresh produce to hungry persons through existing food-distribution and social-service organizations. Individuals and local churches use SoSA’s Lenten and Advent devotional materials, Good Friday Fast, and an alternative Christmas card program. The commission and conference presidents also support the society through “Fami1y” (Fast A Meal In 1 Year).
Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and salary requirement information to Steven M. Waldmann at sosausa@endhunger.org.