Season of change at DOOR

​Andrea Sawyer-Kirksey

​Andrea Sawyer-Kirksey

​Denver, Colorado (DOOR Network/Mennonite Mission Network) - DOOR is experiencing a season of change. Effective Aug. 31, 2017, Glenn Balzer has resigned as DOOR executive director. DOOR is sad to lose his leadership after 23 years, but celebrates all that he has given to the organization. DOOR blesses him and wishes him well as he also embraces a season of change.

DOOR is happy to welcome Andrea Sawyer-Kirksey as the interim executive director, effective Aug. 1, 2017. Andrea moves into this role after five years as the Chicago city director. She brought to DOOR her experience as an educator, justice advocate, and program development professional. She has created curriculum for youth through undergrad and graduate levels dealing with issues of justice, inequality, racism and poverty. During her time as the Chicago city director, Andrea shared her passion for Chicago, best summed up by the 2017 program theme of "Chicago: Beautifully Complicated." She challenged all participants to look beyond the surface of the city and individuals to find the richer stories. Andrea has been particularly passionate about raising up local youth of color to be leaders in DOOR’s Discern program and in Chicago.

DOOR is excited to see how Andrea’s experience and passions will shape the organization and its programs.

In partnership with Mennonite Mission Network and Young Adult Volunteers, DOOR is a faith-based network of cities that provides opportunities for service, learning, and leadership development within the urban context. DOOR is an opportunity to encounter the city through the eyes, ears and heart of God. We are dedicated to providing high quality, life-changing experiences for our participants, staff, board members, and the people in the communities where we are established. Our programming is rooted in the strength of local churches and communities, mutual respect, a culture of welcome and hospitality, and thoughtful reflection. To learn more about DOOR, visit www.doornetwork.org