NEOCH Names New Director

Homeless Advocacy Organization Names New Director: Christopher Knestrick

The Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless Board of Trustees is proud to announce that they have hired Chris Knestrick (Nes-Trick) as the new Director of Operations, replacing Brian Davis who is stepping down after 23 years.  Knestrick brings over 10 years of experience working with the homeless community in Cleveland and directing advocacy efforts with international and local communities. Board President Roy Love praised his compassion and knowledge of local public policy and was confident in the success of Knestrick leading the 30 year old advocacy organization.  “We are excited to have Chris Knestrick oversee our strategic plan, and hope that he can improve the lives of homeless people while they search for housing,” said Love.

 Knestrick will take the lead from the long-time director of the Coalition, Brian Davis who will be leaving the organization at the end of the month.   Knestrick will continue the organization’s deep commitment to amplifying the voice of homeless people, publishing the street newspaper, coordinating outreach, and marketing the affordable housing website HousingCleveland.org.  His experience working for the Catholic Worker community has allowed him to build relationships with men and women on the streets. He comes with a deep knowledge of the issues and challenges that those struggling with poverty face.  “The Board is sorry to see Davis leave NEOCH, but is excited to see what new ideas Knestrick will bring to the struggle to end homelessness in Cleveland.  Davis protected homeless people from unreasonable municipal laws as well as forced relocations and I believe that Chris will continue this important work that the Coalition has led in Cleveland,” said Love.  The Board is committed to continuing to protect homeless voters, publish referral information for homeless people, and convincing the City of Cleveland Police not to arrest homeless people for purely innocent behavior of sitting on the sidewalk.

Knestrick starts on July 5 and plans to visit all the shelters and homeless service providers.  He will introduce himself to homeless people at the Homeless Congress and is going out to visit encampments with some of the outreach workers in July.  The NEOCH Board gave unanimous approval to Knestrick as they open a new chapter in their quest for social justice in Cleveland.  

by Roy Love--Board President representing the full board