The board of directors for the United Christian Advocacy Network’s City Mission recently hosted a meet-and-greet for the organization’s new official executive director, Bruce Baehr, and to celebrate its official reopening.

“The atmosphere was one of joy, thankfulness and camaraderie as UCAN board members and staff greeted many of its community partners, funders, volunteers and city officials,” wrote Sharon Hamilton, president of the board of directors for UCAN. “Wednesday’s open house at UCAN was attended by approximately 50-60 people.”

As previously reported by The Post-Journal, the City Mission, located at 7 W. First St., was forced to shutter all operations because of the discovery of asbestos during an upgrade to the shelter’s heating system. This discovery followed the catastrophic failure of the heating ventilation and air condtioning (HVAC) system itself. Additionally, Aaron Wadin, the shelter’s executive director at the time, resigned following fundamental, theological and administrative differences with the board.

However, after getting a new HVAC system, the shelter hired an interim executive director, and reopened the shelter’s once shuttered doors. The hiring of Bruce Baehr as the temporary executive director has been switched to a permanent position, which he gladly accepted. UCAN then offered an open house and meet and greet event to introduce Baehr to the community and to celebrate the shelter’s official opening.

From left are Sharon Hamilton, president of the board of directors for UCAN City Mission, Mayor Kim Ecklund, and Ann Anderson, board secretary for UCAN pose for a picture Ecklund presented Hamilton with an official proclamation, Wednesday afternoon at the mission.

“The open house was a thank-you to the community members for their support and perseverance during our months of challenge. There was a bountiful charcuterie table for people to enjoy as they walked through the building,” wrote Hamilton. “Mayor Kim Ecklund presented UCAN City Mission with an embossed certificate congratulating them on their reopening and their dedicated service to those in need, empowering individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the community.”

Hamilton also expressed her thanks to the various organizations and partners for their help during the shelter’s greatest need.

“A special expression of thanks was given to both the Sheldon and Lenna Foundations for their generous financial support during unforeseen circumstances. The future of UCAN is one of strength and optimism, one that has become stronger and more focused on providing not just housing but a plethora of love, services and helping hands to all those coming through our doors,” wrote Hamilton. “A plaque was presented to Pastor Dodi McIntyre from Joy Fellowship whose church housed UCAN guests for three months while UCAN’s facility was closed for asbestos removal and installation of a heating and air conditioning system. A second plaque was presented to Cheri Rowland, executive director of St. Susan Center, who housed the administrative staff during the same period. Certificates were presented to Mallory Brown who was responsible for $10,000 in giving from the Bemus Point Methodist Church and Paula Smith, also from Bemus Point Methodist Church for her sacrificial giving.”

Liz Witherspoon , director of programming for UCAN, also stated that “Bruce is a great fit for the City Mission,” she said. “He’s down to earth, a believer who connects well with our guest.”

For more information visit ucancitymission.org.