Welcoming Our New Executive Director
We’re excited to welcome Will Towne as the Haven’s new Executive Director.
Will has spent his career helping to create programs that provide shelter, housing, and support for young people and families. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Spectrum Youth & Family Services, where he worked to expand services, strengthen facilities, and build strong community partnerships.
What drew us to Will is his commitment to listening closely to the people being served, ensuring their voices shape programs and services. That approach reflects the Haven’s own values of dignity, equity, and opportunity.
We’re looking forward to Will’s leadership and the energy he will bring to the Haven community.
A Message from Will
I am honored and excited to be joining Upper Valley Haven as the next Executive Director. There are few agencies held in such high regard as the Haven, and that is thanks to everything you do to support people in our community. I cannot wait to continue this important work alongside you and to help create the best workplace we can.
To the many community members who volunteer your time to assist the Haven in meeting its mission: this work cannot be done without you. I am blown away by the dedication, compassion, and integrity of the volunteer program, and I look forward to meeting you all.
We are at a critical point in time. The needs of our communities are growing, often outpacing the capacity of existing systems, and people are struggling. The Haven represents hope and resiliency despite these challenges, and I am inspired by the shared commitment to meet these needs together. Thank you for welcoming me to be part of this next chapter.
Haven Leadership and Community Impact
For 45 years, the Haven has provided food, shelter, service coordination, and children’s programming to more than 10,000 people each year – always free of charge, 365 days a year.
Guided by Will, the Haven will continue to meet urgent needs while also preparing for the long-term challenges facing our community, building on our long history of adapting to changing needs. With the upcoming opening of the new Shelter & Resource Center, and a continued focus on guiding individuals and families toward a self directed life, we remain committed to being here for anyone who needs us today and in the years ahead.
“On behalf of the Haven’s Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Will Towne as our new Executive Director,” said Kathy Welling, President of the Haven’s Board. “Will impressed the Search Committee with his deep knowledge of housing and the needs of people experiencing homelessness, as well as his intelligence, vision, and approachable leadership style. He also received strong praise for the way he supports and develops those he works with. We look forward to the Haven’s next chapter of growth with Will as our leader.”
