Joe Young was named Executive Director by the ALOA Board of Directors, effective August 22, 2023. Prior to this, he served for several years as a member of the ALOA Board.
Joe brings a wealth of experience to the organization. He retired from the churchwide offices of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) after nearly 20 years in various roles. Prior to his retirement, Joe served as Director for Community Development Services where he administered World Hunger funded programs such as Domestic Hunger Grants and Loan Fund programs, as well as Lutheran Services Grants and Loan Funds. In addition, he supervised the Lutheran Disaster Response Program and administered the Social Ministry Affiliation process.
As Executive Director, Joe brings significant experience advising congregations regarding creating and managing social ministry programs and organizations. Through this work, he created the Missional Sustainability Program and its curriculum, and has coached SMOs on governance and strategic planning, grant writing and fundraising.
Joe obtained his undergraduate degree (Bachelor Social Work) from Wartburg College, Waverly, IA, and his graduate degree (Master Social Work) from the University of Iowa. He and his family have lived in northern Illinois for the past 36 years. An active member at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Joe uses his spare time to mentor students and volunteer at area food banks.
Get in touch with Joe at joe@aloaserves.org