Front Porch to Begin Search for New CEO

CEO John Woodward to Retire Later This Year; Stewarded the Merger Between Front Porch and Covia Communities to Create National Leader in Senior Living

Front Porch Communities and Services Chief Executive Officer John Woodward announced today that he has asked the Front Porch Board of Directors to begin the process of recruiting and selecting a new CEO in alignment with Woodward’s intended retirement later this year. Front Porch serves approximately 7,500 residents in 19 senior living and 32 affordable housing communities. Other programs and services connect more than 10,000 participants throughout the country.

In response to Woodward’s request, Front Porch Board Chair Deborah Proctor said that the Board will establish a search committee and that she anticipates a transition to a new CEO taking place before the end of the year. Until that time, Woodward will remain fully engaged with no change in responsibilities. This will include overseeing not only day-to-day operations but a number of significant capital development projects which are currently in various stages of planning at many of Front Porch’s communities.

“We are indebted to John for all he has done for Front Porch over his years of service,” said Proctor. “His commitment, passion and dedication to our mission have been critically important to our ability to provide our communities with high quality programs, care and services.”

Woodward has served as CEO of Front Porch since May 2015 and during that time the nonprofit organization has developed a nationwide reputation for innovation and sustained excellence in senior living. Most recently, Woodward stewarded the headline-making merger between Front Porch and Covia Communities which prudently positions the organization – both financially and operationally -- to continue to provide high quality care and services for current and future residents.

“It has been a privilege to support Front Porch residents for the past seven years and doing so has certainly been one of the most rewarding and pleasurable experiences of my life,” said Woodward. “I am also grateful for the opportunity to work with such extraordinarily talented and motivated colleagues. Because of all we have accomplished together, including the recent merger with Covia, I feel that the time is right to hand the reigns over to our new generation of leaders who can commit to a long-term engagement and take a longer view as to the future of Front Porch. Knowing this, I can confidently transition into retirement knowing that the mission, vision and values of Front Porch will be in good hands.”

In making the announcement, Woodward said that he “truly values all of the people I have had the honor of working with and nothing brings me more delight than knowing that we are helping our residents lead meaningful and fulfilling lives.”

About Front Porch

Front Porch is a dynamic not-for-profit organization, dedicated to empowering individuals to live connected and fulfilled lives through community and innovation. In support of this vision, Front Porch provides quality, accessible and affordable human services to approximately 7,500 residents in 19 senior living and 32 affordable housing communities. Other programs and services connect more than 10,000 participants throughout the country. Learn more at frontporch.net

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