Erie City Mission (ECM), a cornerstone in the community’s efforts to combat hunger, homelessness, poverty and addiction is on the verge of a transformative journey with the appointment of new leadership and board members. As the organization takes a bold step forward, it envisions a future where its impact on the community is not only sustained but also amplified. This shift in leadership brings fresh perspectives, innovative strategies, and a renewed commitment to serving the diverse needs of Erie’s residents.
New President and CEO At the helm of Erie City Mission’s new leadership is a seasoned executive, Brian R. Johansson. As ECM’s new president and CEO, his vision for the organization centers on fostering a culture of compassion, collaboration and continuous improvement. He brings over 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the ECM and the Erie community, and has developed a
reputation as a team builder, problem solver and strategic thinker.
As a native of New York City, Johansson began his career in construction management before being called to join the historic Bowery Rescue Mission, located in lower Manhattan. For 20 years, he served in various roles at the Bowery from site director to vice president. During his tenure, Johansson oversaw the expansion of the Bowery throughout NYC and Pennsylvania, and co-founded the “Don’t Walk By” event that mobilizes nine partner organizations and 1,400 volunteers to walk every block in Manhattan in search of homeless individuals.
Johansson managed a $10 million annual budget, over 200 full-time and part-time staff, and thousands of volunteers at eight agency sites. He also was approved by the U.S. State Department to present to visiting dignitaries from other countries on the topic of homelessness and addiction, and also served as a chaplain working with the NYPD during the 9/11 recovery efforts. Most recently Johansson served as an independent consultant for various nonprofits in and around the Pittsburgh area.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Nyack College and earned his Master of Public Administration degree from Marywood University. “What an honor and privilege to be given the opportunity to lead this wonderful organization into the future,” shares Johansson. “My wife Peggy and I have spent our lives loving and caring for those who are hurting, struggling, and have fallen through the cracks of society. We are so looking forward to being part of the Erie community.”
New Board Members
Complementing the visionary leadership are two newly appointed Board of Directors, each contributing unique expertise to the organization. They are committed to guiding Erie City Mission toward greater effectiveness and impact.
Natalie Washburn, broker/owner of Maleno Real Estate and Maleno Management, brings over two decades of expertise to the real estate industry. A dedicated professional to her company and the community, she actively contributes to the Greater Erie Board of Realtors, having served as president in 2011, and along with her family helped manage the Maleno Family to Family Fund for 13 years.
“The Erie City Mission is a beacon of light and hope in the Erie Community!” Washburn states. “The amazing work that this mission’s team does for people in need on a yearly basis is remarkable. When a board spot opened in 2023, I was very excited and honored to serve. I look forward to working with a group of people that share my core values and Christian principles.”
Jeff Evans is an employee benefits consultant for USI Insurance Services in Erie. With over 15 years of industry experience, he works with employers of all sizes to help them address the critical challenges of cost, compliance and employee satisfaction associated with their employee benefit programs.
“Joining the board of the Erie City Mission was an instinctive step for me,” says Evans. “The Mission’s unwavering dedication to transforming lives through compassion, empowerment and community support resonates deeply with my personal values. I believe in the power of collective action to drive positive change, and serving on the board allows me to contribute meaningfully to a cause I wholeheartedly believe in. Together, we strive to uplift individuals, strengthen families, and build a brighter future for our community; one filled with hope, opportunity, and unwavering support.”
As Erie City Mission embarks on this exciting chapter of revitalization, the combination of
visionary leadership and a dynamic Board of Directors holds the promise of transformative change.
Headquarters:
P.O. Box 407
Erie, PA 16512
Phone: 814/452-4421
Website: eriecitymission.org
