The Salvation Army of Kent County Announces Appointment of Executive Director of Social Services
The Salvation Army of Kent County will begin the new year with a new Executive Director of its Social Services. Nancy Oliver, a 20-year veteran of leadership roles in social and human services will have oversight responsibility for the coordination between The Salvation Army’s Social Services programs in Grand Rapids and Kent County. Every year, The Salvation Army of Kent County serves nearly 20,000 individuals through a wide variety of programs and services; including emergency food and utility assistance, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, coordinated entry for homeless services, stable housing solutions, infant and maternal health services and others.
In her new position, Oliver will play a vital role in community conversations about poverty, homelessness, drug and alcohol rehabilitation and other important social issues facing Grand Rapids / Kent County now and in the years ahead. Oliver comes to The Salvation Army with an extensive resume of experience including child welfare, prisoner reentry, housing, drug and alcohol rehabilitation and mental health. Oliver is passionate about social justice - specifically racial and social equity and in meeting the needs of those in the community who are underserved. She holds a B.A. degree in Psychology from Michigan State University as well as an M.A. degree in Administration and Organizational Development from Spring Arbor College.
“On behalf of the Grand Rapids Advisory Board, I would like to welcome Nancy Oliver to The Salvation Army for the vitally important work she will be undertaking,” said Greg Conway, Grand Rapids Advisory Board Chairperson. “Her extensive professional experience will further The Salvation Army's role as a beacon of hope for the hungry, the homeless and the underserved in Grand Rapids and throughout Kent County,” Conway added.