We’re thrilled to share that Colleen Echohawk has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Community Roots Housing, effective October 6! Colleen brings 20+ years of leadership as an executive, small business owner, and community organizer, including as Executive Director of Chief Seattle Club, where she helped catalyze nearly $100 million in new affordable housing in Seattle, and as CEO of Eighth Generation. She also serves on the boards of Seattle Foundation and Seattle Colleges and is an enrolled member of the Kithehaki Band of the Pawnee Nation and a member of the Upper Athabascan people of Mentasta Lake. With longtime CEO Chris Persons retiring at the end of October after 18 years of service, Colleen will work alongside board, staff and residents to advance our mission to create inclusive affordable housing and foster thriving, just communities. “I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve as CEO of Community Roots Housing,” Colleen shared. “Affordable housing is one of the most urgent issues facing our city and our country, and it is deeply connected to my lifelong commitment to social justice. For me, this work is about more than buildings—it is about dignity, belonging, and hope. I am eager to work alongside our residents, staff, board, and community partners to ensure that together we create inclusive, welcoming neighborhoods where every person has the opportunity to thrive.” Colleen joins us at a pivotal moment of growth: Copperleaf Northgate will soon add 232 affordable apartments adjacent to the Northgate light rail and transit center. The White Center HUB community center and Canopy White Center (76 family-sized affordable apartments) are nearing completion. On Capitol Hill, construction of the Constellation Center with YouthCare is underway, which will bring an education and employment hub, 84 new affordable apartments, and 15 homes designed for youth exiting homelessness. Please join us in enthusiastically welcoming Colleen Echohawk to Community Roots Housing! (fb)

Thank you for making Omnivorous a success! A huge thank you to the incredible 28 local food and drink vendors that made this event possible, the generous supporters and sponsors who believe in our mission, and everyone who joined us last night! With your help, we raised over $265,000 and counting in support of Community Roots Housing and our commitment to building a more affordable Seattle for everyone. Stay tuned for photos and more highlights from the night. (fb)