Dear Friends:

On behalf of Bridge House's Board of Directors, I am delighted to inform you that we have appointed Lawrence J. Carroll as Executive Director. Mr. Carroll was selected pursuant to a nationwide search and has been warmly welcomed by our members and staff.

As many of you know, Mr. Carroll was born and raised in Bridgeport and has been involved for many years in helping those in need within our community. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Carroll served The Diocese of Bridgeport in several leadership and administrative positions.

Mr. Carroll earned a Bachelor's degree in Humanities from St. Mary's University in Baltimore, a Master of Divinity Degree from Christ the King in New York and a post graduate program of studies at The University of Notre Dame. More recently, Mr. Carrollcompleted a Human Resources certificate program at Fairfield University.

The Board, our dedicated staff, and the entire membership are confident that Mr. Carroll'sleadership strengths will serve Bridge House well at this critical time – as our members face even greater challenges finding a job, securing decent housing, and meeting other needs like food and medical care.

Last year, while celebrating Bridge House's 25th anniversary, we came together to form a strategic plan that will ensure Bridge House's continued longevity while also expanding existing services and launching new initiatives. Together, we look forward to another successful quarter century supporting our members as they overcome the challenges of mental illness.

I hope you will take the opportunity to personally welcome Mr. Carroll as he embarks on this new mission and that Bridge House can count on your continuing support.

Sincerely yours,

Carolyn R. Linsey

President, Bridge House Board of Directors