Goetz takes over as Rescue Mission of Utica leader, following Haid retirement

UTICA, N.Y. — Wendy R. Goetz took over as executive director of the Rescue Mission of Utica earlier this month, following the retirement of Jim Haid who led the nonprofit for more than four years.

Goetz was formerly administrator of Rome Memorial Hospital’s (RMH) residential health care facility and senior behavioral health unit. She has more than 15 years of management experience. During her time at RMH, the residential healthcare facility was ranked among the top 20 percent of nursing homes statewide, through the Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI), and one of the few facilities to consistently achieve a Five-Star CMS ranking, Paul Davidson, board president of the Rescue Mission of Utica, said in a news release.

Haid notified the board of his retirement plans in late 2018, according to Davidson, which allowed time for an extensive search for the new executive director. Following her selection, Goetz and Haid worked together for several weeks, to ensure a “smooth transition,” per the release.

Davidson lauded Haid for having a “remarkable impact” on the Rescue Mission and its programs. “Jim’s foresight led to the Mission moving its administrative offices to Genesee Street, which provided space for the Emergency Men’s Shelter to more than double in size. This move increased available beds for homeless men, from 28 to 59, Davidson added.

 Founded in 1890, the Rescue Mission of Utica is a faith-based nonprofit, multiple-service, charitable organization serving Utica and the Mohawk Valley.

Contact Nilsen at knilsen@cnybj.com