Carrie L. Amos, who has led Jericho Partnership for 14 years as Executive Director and President, will leave her position as President at the end of August 2021 and will take a role with Maranatha Foundation, the entity that provides the majority of Jericho’s funding.
Carrie will continue to work on behalf of Jericho, focusing on community relations and development, said Bill Beattie who, as Jericho’s Founder and Chairman, also chairs Maranatha.
“Carrie’s deep roots in the community, her love for Danbury’s youth, and her passion for Jericho’s mission make her the perfect person to take on this important role,” Bill said. “Released from running day-to-day ministry, she’ll continue to be a wonderful ambassador for Jericho and maintain her indelible imprint on our ministry to at-risk youth, and to our community.”
In addition to helming Jericho through many years of growth, Carrie led it through the unpredictable days of the coronavirus pandemic. She worked tirelessly with the staff to pivot ministry from 100% in-person, on-site activities to a hybrid model that has kept students engaged in academics, mentoring, and other compassionate care services, including an expansion of its food operations. During this time, a new and laser-focused mission came to life: a “whole student” 360-degree approach to serving the academic, physical, social, and spiritual needs of Danbury’s at-risk youth, and by extension, their families.
“Several months ago, during a time of prayer, I sensed I was being prepared by God to be released from my current role,” Carrie said. “It was becoming clearer as to the next chapter of Jericho and my role as president. One afternoon, in particular, a severe storm knocked down several trees in my backyard, creating a chaotic scene right in front of me. But just beyond the storm damage was a beautiful clearing. I sensed God telling me that when the time came that I would have led Jericho to the clearing - including through this pandemic - I would be released from Jericho and could move on to other opportunities. That time is here.”
Beattie said a committee will begin a search for a new Executive Director, who will join the team as soon as possible to enable a smooth leadership transition during a time when Jericho is giving increased attention to at-risk youth. “Given the impact of COVID-19 and reported loss of schooling and social relationships via traditional school networks,” Bill said, “Jericho is positioned to have a significant impact on our youth.”