Introducing Our New Executive Director: Keith Leahey
We are delighted to welcome Keith Leahey as the new Executive Director of FOCUS Churches of Albany! With over 30 years of experience in the human services field and a deep commitment to supporting vulnerable communities, Keith brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and leadership to this role. Keith took a moment to share a little more about himself. Enjoy!
Tell us a little about yourself.
I have over 30 years of experience in the human service sector and worked in various settings to include homeless services, developmental disabilities, and mental health. I am a graduate of SUNY Brockport (BSW) and Marywood University (MSW).
I am new to the Albany area but not New York State. My most recent position was based in Sarasota, Florida where I oversaw multiple programs that included mental health counseling, aging services, homeless prevention, among others. Prior to this, I served as the Executive Director for a community-based mental health organization in Binghamton, NY for 16 years. I am blessed to be married to my wonderful wife, Oulayvan. We have a 16-year-old son, Christian, and two dogs, Lilly and Lala.
Will you share a little about your hobbies with us?
In my spare time, I enjoy doing just about anything outdoors. My family enjoys hiking, biking, camping, and just hanging around by the water – be it the beach, lake, river, or creek.
What are you looking forward to in your new role of FOCUS’s Executive Director?
I am honored to join the FOCUS Churches of Albany team as its new Executive Director. After spending four days in this position (as of this writing) it has become soberingly clear that many in our community struggle each and every day with the brutal realities of poverty and food insecurity. This is not ok.
I look forward to servicing FOCUS as an agent of change – in concert with our board of directors, partners, politicians, volunteers, and broader community to improve the circumstances and alleviate suffering of those most vulnerable in our community.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I have over 30 years of experience in the human service sector and worked in various settings to include homeless services, developmental disabilities, and mental health. I am a graduate of SUNY Brockport (BSW) and Marywood University (MSW).
I am new to the Albany area but not New York State. My most recent position was based in Sarasota, Florida where I oversaw multiple programs that included mental health counseling, aging services, homeless prevention, among others. Prior to this, I served as the Executive Director for a community-based mental health organization in Binghamton, NY for 16 years. I am blessed to be married to my wonderful wife, Oulayvan. We have a 16-year-old son, Christian, and two dogs, Lilly and Lala.
Will you share a little about your hobbies with us?
In my spare time, I enjoy doing just about anything outdoors. My family enjoys hiking, biking, camping, and just hanging around by the water – be it the beach, lake, river, or creek.
What are you looking forward to in your new role of FOCUS’s Executive Director?
I am honored to join the FOCUS Churches of Albany team as its new Executive Director. After spending four days in this position (as of this writing) it has become soberingly clear that many in our community struggle each and every day with the brutal realities of poverty and food insecurity. This is not ok.
I look forward to servicing FOCUS as an agent of change – in concert with our board of directors, partners, politicians, volunteers, and broader community to improve the circumstances and alleviate suffering of those most vulnerable in our community.