Laurie Nelson named TOPS in recovery
Number one was our own Laurel Nelson. Laurel has been our CEO for over eight years. She led our transition to the Saint Anthony Center (SAC.). She also ensured that we were/are included in Hamilton County Tax levies as well as crafted long-term relationships with WKRC TV Channel 12. Laurel writes annual op-eds about us that generally appear in The Cincinnati Enquirer.
Most importantly, she steered the team through the pandemic. While there were a few instances of COVID on the medical unit — these were isolated and did not create a widespread health challenge. Through Laurel’s leadership, we collaborate with a group of organizations that serve people experiencing homelessness and reside as our neighbors in the SAC. In the months ahead — in our 20th year — we will write more about our community partners who work (with us) to serve our most vulnerable adults.
Nelson leads CRC’s work to help those facing illness, homelessness
Laurel Nelson, CEO for the Center for Respite Care, has held that title for nine years. In that time, the center has become well-known for helping adults experiencing homelessness who have been released from a hospital.
In 2023, the center will celebrate its 20th anniversary providing medical healing and the transition to stable housing and often employment. Under Nelson’s tenure, the center relocated from a standalone operation in Avondale to a shared location in OTR with the Saint Anthony Center. Nelson’s steady hand, caring nature and commitment to the center’s financial stability have aided its success.
Nelson loves to travel, to hike and shoot macro photography. During the pandemic, while working in person full time, she earned her second master’s degree, an executive M.A. in nonprofit management from the University of Notre Dame.
