Refuge of Hope longtime staffer Scott Schynders named new CEO

CANTON − Refuge of Hope Ministries has appointed Scott Schnyders as its new chief executive officer.

He succeeds CEO Duane Wykoff, who retired in January.

The faith-based mission at 715 Second St. NE offers the city's only emergency shelter for men, as well as employment training and free hot meals to needy individuals and families.

“We are thrilled to welcome Scott Schnyders as our new CEO,” Stark County Family Court Judge Michelle Cordova, board president, said in a statement.

“His passion for our mission, coupled with his extensive experience and leadership capabilities, make him the ideal candidate to lead Refuge of Hope Ministries into its next chapter of growth and impact.”

Schnyders is a graduate of Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. Shortly after graduation, he moved from Minnesota to Canton, serving as a resident director at Malone University for three years.

He joined Refuge of Hope in 2007, serving 16 years as shelter director and most recently as interim CEO.

Clay Cunningham replaces Schnyders as shelter director after four years as a shelter supervisor.

Schnyders also has led the Coordinated Entry Committee as co-chair and vice chair for the Stark County Homeless Collaborative. He currently serves on the board of the Downtown Canton Partnership and Lighthouse Ministries.

At Refuge of Hope, he has successfully led initiatives to expand services and increase community engagement.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners as CEO,” Schnyders said in a statement.

“I am excited to lead Refuge of Hope through this season of growth and possibilities. Most importantly, I am committed to our mission and our continuous efforts to bring the hope of Jesus Christ to all who enter our doors and receive our services.”

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Scott Schnyders is the new CEO at Refuge of Hope