Kelly Thomson. (Photo via The Mustard Seed)
Kelly Thomson, a Kamloopsian who was serving as Managing Director of The Mustard Seed in Kamloops, will be stepping down at the end of this month.
Thomson, who took over as Interim Managing Director in Nov. 2020, will be transitioning into a new role with the Mustard Seed as a Government Relations Officer for British Columbia, as of April 1.
“I am [two-and-a-half] years into what was to be a six-month term here as Managing Director,” Thomson said, in an email to NL News. “I have learned so much from our community in Kamloops, and I thank each of you for allowing me to serve with you as we worked to improve the lives of those in the marginalized community.”
“I believe this is a good time for me to step away from this role and allow new leadership to continue to do the amazing work The Mustard Seed is doing and has done over the past few years. We have built great leaders from within, who are ready to take the next steps in leadership.”
He says his new position will be focused not just on buildings relationships with all levels of Government, but with people who can make changes for local communities and the province as a whole.
“I will continue to advocate for those The Mustard Seed serves and foster a dialogue that outlines the need and the gap of sufficient programs and services that those experiencing homelessness continue to face,” Thomson added.
Thomson says Nyasha Manyanye, the Seed’s Director of Operations, and Katie Hutchins, the Manager of Administration will continue to manage staff and operations in Kamloops.
“We can address issues like housing insecurity, and holistic recovery if we have the right people, in the right places, making the right decisions,” Thomson said.
“Thank you all for your support of The Mustard Seed, and of the work we do here. I will continue to be a partner in finding the best solutions for the city we all call home.”
Editors note – A previous version of this story incorrectly said The Mustard Seed will be looking for a new Managing Director to replace Kelly Thomson. We regret the error.
