Community Corner

The Retreat Executive Director Plans Exit

Karen Ross has been named the interim executive director.

Jeffrey Friedman will bid adieu to The Retreat after five years as the executive director.

"I am leaving to respond to a call for service that is much closer to my home, many miles west of here. After nearly five years, the 160 mile round trip commute proved to be too much for me and my family," Friedman wrote in a letter to supporters of the domestic violence advocacy agency, based in East Hampton on Oct. 2. "It is a decision that I made with a heavy heart," he said.

Karen Ross, the senior leader of The Retreat's program services, has been appointed the interim executive director while the board looks for a long-term leader. There is also an office in Riverhead.

Friedman's last day is Oct. 25. "I am hopeful to continue in another capacity after that. That still needs to be determined," he said by email on Wednesday. 

The Retreat, which runs also runs a shelter for abused women, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2012.

"I feel gratitude to have encountered and been a part of such an amazing organization that transforms the lives of women, children, and families each and every day," Friedman wrote to supporters, "and I feel inspiration because this agency's staff and supporters have proven that through economic times good and bad, The Retreat has a core strength, focus and culture, that allows this one-of-a-kind organization to succeed and thrive in delivering its mission day in and day out."


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