Streams of Hope announced last week that its Board of Directors has unanimously approved the appointment of Kurtis Kaechele as its next executive director.
Kurtis will be taking leadership in the organization’s first full-time position beginning Feb. 17. With the continued growth of 10 existing programs and planned expansion into new offerings for its community, the time is ripe for Streams of Hope to invest in a full-time leader. Former Executive Director Paul Holtrop, who has helped lead the organization since its inception in 2006, will be ensuring a smooth transition with Kurtis.
“I’m excited to have Kurtis starting soon,” Holtrop said. “He is an enthusiastic leader and faithful Christian who will continue to emphasize community building at Streams of Hope.”
Kaechele is a native of Caledonia and lives in Grand Rapids with his wife and young daughter. He spent the past 15 years as a brand and marketing strategist, most recently as the marketing director for Nexstar Media, the parent organization for WOOD TV8 locally. Kaechele holds a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in Communications and Media, and has been instrumental in planning and promoting the popular Maranda Park Parties in West Michigan. His background in communication and strategic planning is a wonderful fit for this nonprofit which has been a staple of the Townline community for the past 12 years.
“Streams of Hope is well established, and it’s just starting to build on a really solid foundation,” Kaechele said. “I’m really impressed with what they offer and the good work they’re doing in our community, and I look forward to sharing that story with others.”
Streams of Hope is a fairly young organization, but it already has significant, long-term impact on its community. Its focus is healthy schools, neighborhoods, and families. Through a variety of programs it touches almost 600 neighbors each month. Supportive services like the Food Center, an onsite medical clinic, fitness and cooking classes, and after-school programs for students help foster a healthier community.
Under Kaechele’s leadership, the Streams of Hope team plans to continue expanding its programs to reach more neighbors. In 2019, the nonprofit had a $1 million economic impact on its community and is looking forward to increased growth.
“God has truly blessed me with this incredible opportunity,” Kaechele said. “I am excited to bring my passion, experience, and fresh perspective to this amazing team of staff and volunteers. Together we’ll build upon Streams of Hope’s successful history of positive, sustainable change in our community!”
To learn more about Streams of Hope, visit streamsofhope.org.
