SOS Executive Director Connie Cahoone hopes the agency continues a “legacy of hope” when a new director is named next year.
Cahoone will retire in March, and a nationwide search for a new director will begin soon. She announced her retirement Friday after nearly a dozen years leading SOS and joined KVOE’s Newsmaker segment Tuesday to talk about her decision. She followed Susan Moran in 2012 after a career in banking. Cahoone says she had some indication about the extent of SOS’ work in the community, but —
Cahoone spearheaded the purchase and extensive renovations of the SOS Community Advocacy and Outreach Complex at 1420 C of E Drive, allowing for the consolidation of SOS services and programs in one location. She also oversaw the development of several major fundraisers, including Hope-A-Palooza, SOS Strong and Heroes for Hope. That was a step taken in part because of necessity as grant funding has been shrinking for years.
Cahoone encourages people to volunteer for the Court-Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA program, saying there is a major need for volunteers to help child victims involved in the court process.
Once she retires, Cahoone says she plans to spend more time with her grandchildren and ride motorcycles with her husband, Steve.
