Dear Faithful Partners in Ministry,
Since 2006, I have had the great honor of shepherding Portland Rescue Mission as the Executive Director. During this time, my wife, Ruth, and I have witnessed our community generously provide hope and vital care to countless neighbors in great need. We have seen so many lives transformed, families reunited, and fresh starts leading to self-sufficiency and renewed purpose.
The work is holistic, marvelously messy, and fueled by God’s grace. Every day our staff and volunteers walk alongside men, women, and children as they courageously choose to make the arduous journey away from homelessness and addiction.
It never gets old. Compassionate care ignites hope and extinguishes despair. The love and truth of Jesus are proclaimed, and faith is born. Trust is built, and people are drawn from isolation into caring community. Life skills and vocational training lead to fulfilling work. Addiction recovery programming facilitates deep healing, abstinence, and freedom. Financial and legal entanglements are resolved through advocacy support. Bodies are nourished and nurtured to health. And much more.
Ruth and I have loved being immersed in this dynamic, life-giving ministry for the last 18 years, so it was bittersweet when we felt our season of service at Portland Rescue Mission was coming to an end. In late February of this year, I notified the Board of my decision to retire from my position. A national search for a new Executive Director is underway. My last day of service at the Mission will be November 1st.
The transition planning since February has gone smoothly because we have an exceptional leadership team with decades of experience and an extraordinarily vibrant ministry culture of highly relational, Christ-centered, joyful servants. We also have a passionate community of volunteers, donors, churches, and neighbors who are committed to this vital ministry. I am deeply gratified and very confident that the light of Portland Rescue Mission will shine brighter than ever.
Thank you for your partnership in lifting and transforming lives!
Eric Bauer,
Executive Director, Portland Rescue Mission, 2006-2024
For 18 years, we have been wholly honored and humbled to serve alongside Eric and Ruth Bauer. Their commitment to the Mission has inspired our guests, participants, volunteers, and staff. The hard work they dedicated throughout the years has given Portland Rescue Mission an enormous opportunity to serve the community of Portland for years to come! Here’s a view of what this transition means to the community and the Mission:
Why did Eric Bauer decide to leave Portland Rescue Mission?
After 18 years, Eric and his wife, Ruth, felt it was time to end their season of service, and Eric announced his retirement from the Mission to the Board earlier this year.
When is Eric’s last day at Portland Rescue Mission?
Eric Bauer’s final day of formal service at the Mission is November 1, 2024.
Who is the new Executive Director?
In the Spring of 2024, the Board and Leadership Team engaged a national executive search firm to help us find a new Executive Director. We are confident that the Mission will continue to thrive after Eric’s departure and are excited about the future. To learn more about the Executive Director position, please visit: https://jobfitmatters.com/prm/
Until a new Executive Director is hired, who will steward the Mission?
In early 2024, the Board and Leadership Team worked together to build a transition plan. The planning for Eric’s transition has gone smoothly because we have an exceptional Leadership Team with decades of experience and an extraordinarily vibrant ministry culture of highly relational, Christ-centered, joyful servants. We also have a passionate community of volunteers, donors, churches, and neighbors who are committed to this vital ministry.
During the transition, Erin Holcomb and Bill Meadowcroft will serve as the Mission’s Interim Co-Executive Directors. Each brings a combined 25+ years of Portland Rescue Mission experience. Additionally, they will work closely with our Board and Board Chair, Phil Odella, to ensure the Mission’s day-to-day operations and long-term planning continue to thrive.
How can I support the Mission during the transition?
First and foremost, we ask for your prayers as we seek guidance and wisdom for our Leadership Team, Board, and the search committee in this season of change. Other ways you can get involved? Consider volunteering your time and skills to help us continue our vital work in serving those in need. Lastly, your financial support remains crucial; your generous donations will ensure our programs and services remain strong and effective as we move forward.
We are deeply grateful for Eric Bauer’s service and excited about Portland Rescue Mission’s bright future. Thank you for your partnership in lifting and transforming lives!