Jacksonville Beach, Fla. (Aug. 29, 2022) – The executive committee of the Mission House Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Michaele McAvoy as interim executive director, replacing Carina Saladino who resigned last week after serving in the role for two years.

McAvoy has been with Mission House since 2017, serving as associate director for the past four years where she’s responsible for assisting in managing the day-to-day operations of the organization’s programs including Crisis Care, Rapid Re-housing and outreach programs. She also manages Mission House’s grant process.

“It’s an honor to step into this role, and I know, firsthand, the impact our organization is making working with men and women who are affected by homelessness in the Beaches area,” said McAvoy. “I’m honored to have the board’s confidence to serve in this capacity and I look forward to working together to help put more people on the path to independence for a full and meaningful life.”

She previously was a foster care specialist for Good Shepherd Children and Family Services in St. Louis as well as a foster care manager for Great Circle, also in St. Louis. She also served in AmeriCorps for three years, working in several capacities including as a housing case manager, legal advocate and employment specialist in both Michigan and Alaska. McAvoy holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Florida.

“The board is excited about the future of Mission House,” said Billy Wagner, board chair. “Although change can be challenging, it’s also a time to reflect, renew and re-commit to the mission of this amazing organization. Given Michaele’s nonprofit background and tenure with Mission House, we’re confident she’ll lead with passion and dedication while continuing to take the organization to the next level.”

The Mission House Board of Directors will initiate an executive search with the goal of appointing a new executive director by the end of the year.

Mission House is the only day facility in Jacksonville Beach working to end homelessness in Northeast Florida by providing housing assistance, health care and supportive services, including food, clothing, and case management while inspiring hope and rebuilding lives. For more information regarding Mission House, visit www.missionhousejax.org.