The Erie City Mission announces Darrell A. Smith as the next Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2023. Stephen Westbrook, who has been acting Chief Executive Officer for the last seven years, will end his tenure with the Erie City Mission on December 31, 2022.
“I deeply thank the board, staff, and this community for the tremendous privilege of leading the Mission in its profound work of serving those in desperation, in the name of Jesus Christ,” said Stephen Westbrook. “Over the past seven years, I have walked side-by-side with Darrell through the challenges and triumphs of our great organization and…I believe he will take up the baton of leadership and run his leg of the race valiantly to win what God has prepared for the Mission and those we serve.”
Smith, the current Chief Operating Officer and Director of Men’s Ministries, has been employed with the Erie City Mission for over 18 years. As a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Smith brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of drug and alcohol recovery and homelessness.
“Darrell has been passionate about the Mission, the people, and the community it serves since 2004,” said Leo Heintz, Erie City Mission board member and personnel committee chair. “He is a great leader and natural fit to be the next CEO of the Mission.”
“There have been so many genuine leaders at the Mission during my time here,” shared Darrell A. Smith. “My hope is that I carry the Mission forward and that I honor our tradition of service.”
Smith received a BA in Science from Penn State University and holds a CADC certification.