March 1, 2022 (Ann Arbor, Mich.) – The Board of Directors of Washtenaw Literacy, a non-profit that helps adults change their lives through literacy, has named Carole McCabe as Executive Director. McCabe was the founding Executive Director of Ann Arbor’s Avalon Housing, a non-profit that develops and manages supportive housing communities as a long-term solution to homelessness. She joins Washtenaw Literacy as the organization marks its 50th anniversary. She will succeed Chief Executive Amy Goodman, who is retiring after 14 years of leadership.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Carole to Washtenaw Literacy,” said Mary Jean Raab, Washtenaw Literacy Board President. “Her passion for alleviating poverty is a great fit with our mission and our strategic plan. Plus, her connection to the community we serve will enable her to hit the ground running. We’re excited to start our second 50 years!”
In 1992, McCabe and a group of community advocates founded Avalon Housing, pioneering a housing-first response to homelessness that shifted focus from emergency shelter to long-term housing and stability. McCabe led the group for 25 years, overseeing Avalon’s innovative approach to property management and support services for people experiencing long-term homelessness. In addition to her work at Avalon and various other social justice non-profits, McCabe spent a year as a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Toledo and has been a lecturer at the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University. She holds a master’s degree from the University of Michigan School of Social Work and a BA in Philosophy from Trinity College (CT).
“I am excited to join the Washtenaw Literacy team,” said McCabe. “I have spent my career working to help people meet their basic needs, and I know that literacy and educational support are essential to achieving self-determination. I am impressed with the great work of this organization and look forward to leading Washtenaw Literacy at this important juncture.”
McCabe assumes her new role on March 7 and will have an opportunity to meet supporters of Washtenaw Literacy on April 23 at "Lifelong Literacy: Make it Happen," a brunch event at Eagle Crest Resort. The event will feature keynote speaker Naomi Norman, Superintendent of Washtenaw Intermediate School District. McCabe will work with Goodman until Goodman’s retirement on April 30.
“Carole and Amy have a joint goal to model an ideal executive transition,” said Raab. “We’re grateful to Amy for her strong, transformative leadership and look forward to where Carole will take Washtenaw Literacy as we commence the next chapter in our history.”
About Washtenaw Literacy
Washtenaw Literacy's purpose is straightforward: we help adults change their lives through literacy. Since 1971, we have helped men and women improve their reading, writing, math, digital, and English as second language skills.
Literacy is a critical part of our community's educational continuum and social service safety net. Literacy is foundational to equity and inclusion. Someday we hope our services are not needed. Until then, we'll support our volunteer tutors as they help low-literate men and women improve their skills and their lives. For more information on Washtenaw Literary, please call Washtenaw Literacy at (734) 337-3338 or go to www.washtenawliteracy.org
Media Contact: Mary Jean Raab
+1 734.395.5589 or Raabmj@aol.com
