He’ll oversee development operations and fundraising, events, communications and marketing
Russ Russell has a passion for making a difference, and he’s turned that passion into a more than 35-year career helping nonprofits thrive. South Oakland Shelter is excited to announce this veteran nonprofit executive is our new chief development officer. Russell will manage operations and resources for fundraising, corporate giving and development, along with events, direct communications and marketing efforts, when he begins his new role August 27.
“We are thrilled to welcome Russ to our leadership team. He has been a transformative force for several Detroit-area nonprofits and has a passion for serving people in need,” said Ryan Hertz, President & CEO of South Oakland Shelter. “Russ is not afraid to set and go after game changing funding goals. We can’t wait to see him apply his background and experience toward our mission of serving the most vulnerable members of our community.”
“I’m excited and honored to join South Oakland Shelter and support its vision of helping end homelessness for those in need throughout metro Detroit,” Russell said. “The SOS team’s energy and can-do spirit is everything I am about!”
Russell brings an impressive track record of success – and a mastery of integrated marketing strategies and major gift and campaign efforts – to South Oakland Shelter. He previously worked with Detroit PAL, helping the organization raise $20 million to redevelop the former Tiger Stadium site as a new sports complex and PAL headquarters.
Before that, Russell served in various leadership capacities with Forgotten Harvest, Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit and The Salvation Army. He succeeds Omari Taylor, who is taking on a new role at Gleaners Community Food Bank.
Russell received his bachelor’s degree in business administration and education at Mid America Nazarene University in Olathe, Kan. He resides in Oak Park, and volunteers with several organizations including Metro Detroit Youth Day, Uniting Detroit, Healthshare Global, and the Chandler Park Conservancy.
Please join us in welcoming Russ to the SOS team!
