The Chief Executive of Galway Simon Community is stepping down from her role this September after eight years at the helm of the homelessness charity.

Karen Golden has served as CEO since 2017 having previously served on the Board of Galway Simon between 2004 and 2011.

During that time she has guided the organisation through some major developments including the establishment of a dedicated Women and Family Service, a dedicated Prevention Service, Housing First programmes for people with a history of rough sleeping with high and complex mental health and addiction needs across the region, and the “My Home” Service for mental health service users transitioning from institutional care to independent living.

She also oversaw the expansion of the Youth and Community Based Housing Services, the expansion of the Health and Wellbeing Service including the launch of the Mobile Health Unit, the development and expansion of the Social Integration Service and very significantly, the completion of ten one-bedroom apartments for older people and people with reduced mobility.

In addition, Karen has played a key role in advocating at local and national level to ensure homelessness is recognised by policy makers as the key social issue of our time and to positively influence policy changes that improve the lives of people experiencing and at risk of homelessness across Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.

Commenting on her time at Galway Simon, the Galway city native said: “In the nearly eight years since I took up post, I have never wavered in my belief that this is an extraordinary Community and that Galway, Mayo and Roscommon are better places because this organisation exists.

“I am always mindful that each child and adult who is experiencing or at risk of homelessness has their own story – how they got here, what facing homelessness means for them now and the potential for long-term impacts for years to come.

“The work done by our teams is very tough in the current environment.  In addition to the relevant expertise and experience, it requires empathy, compassion, patience, perseverance, respect, belief.  I have the deepest regard for all that our teams do, and how they do it.”

Galway Simon chairman Ciarán Forken offered ‘our deepest thanks to Karen Golden for her excellent service and dedication to Galway Simon Community’.

“Karen really lives our mission and has given a tremendous amount to the organisation over the years,” he said.

“She leaves behind a much stronger community, with a range of Services, a highly engaged team focussed on achieving our goals and strong compliance. Her impact and effectiveness at Galway Simon Community has been outstanding and she leaves a lasting legacy,” he added.

Carol Baumann will take over as Galway Simon Community’s new CEO.

Previously Domestic Abuse Service Manager with COPE Galway, Carol brings a wealth of experience and a vocational energy to the role.

“She has a strong desire to build on the legacy of the organisation by continuing to improve the prospects of people experiencing homelessness in the West,” said Mr Forken.

“We look forward to her leadership through the next set of challenges and opportunities and offer our full support.”

Pictured: Departing…Karen Golden.