The San Diego Human Dignity Foundation (SDHDF) has announced that Executive Director Tony Freeman is leaving his post to return to the ministry of the Metropolitan Community Church. During this transition period, long-time supporter and past board member of the foundation, David Miles has been appointed interim executive director. Together with board Vice President Drew Jack and existing staff, Miles will manage day-to-day activities at the foundation to ensure the foundation’s programs move forward effectively. An executive search process has been initiated.
“While the board is sad to lose Tony, we would not be in the position we are today without his leadership and we wish him all the best in this new endeavor,” stated Kay Chandler, SDHDF board president. “Tony’s departure will in no way hamper current foundation efforts. Our board is fully engaged as well and ready to step in whenever needed.”
During Tony Freeman’s time as executive director, The San Diego Human Dignity Foundation has experienced unprecedented growth achieving several significant milestones. Assets have more than tripled to more than $3 million, notably with the establishment of the Sunshine Brooks Fund by AIDS Foundation San Diego. SDHDF was selected, through a competitive process, to be the convener of the San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative that in 2012 has distributed more than $400,000, raised through AIDS Walk San Diego as well as other local and national donors, to HIV/AIDS service providers in the San Diego region. And a major funding initiative Aging with Dignity was launched to create new resources to address the unique needs of San Diego’s LGBT seniors.
“None of these successes would have been possible without Tony Freeman’s leadership.” said Chandler.
“I am very proud of The San Diego Human Dignity Foundation and the work it has done to address the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in San Diego.” said Tony Freeman. “The foundation is strong on all fronts – operationally, financially and organizationally. It is poised to continue to grow as a community-wide leader and supporter of efforts that benefit LGBT people.”
Tony Freeman came to the Foundation in 2007 after managing a corporate giving program and launching a new corporate foundation serving at-risk children and youth. Before that he served as senior pastor of Metropolitan Community Church San Diego from 1996 to 2006.
