Jon Firger Named Executive Director of NCSC

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July 8, 2010 -- (Newton, MA) -- Jon Firger has accepted the position of Executive Director of Newton Community Service Center (NCSC). He will assume this position on September 7, 2010.

Jon joins NCSC from Jewish Family Service of the North Shore in Salem where he served as Chief Executive for 16 years. While there, Jon led, designed and successfully implemented five strategic plans. He obtained funding and launched one of 19 NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities), a wrap-around program for seniors, nationally. In addition he created a Continuous Quality Improvement system that measured the strategic objectives of each service and function and improved the quality of the entire organization. Jon spent 11 years at The Psychological Center in Lawrence where he provided both clinical and financial management. He began his professional career providing clinical services to children and families and he looks forward to getting back to his clinical roots.

Jon grew up in Waban, attended the Angier School, Warren Junior High and graduated from Newton South. He still has family and friends in the area. Jon received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Hampshire College before obtaining a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from the Boston College. He earned his Master in Business Administration (MBA) from Salem State College Graduate School of Business.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to provide professional leadership to NCSC,” said Firger. “The decision to move on from JFS was a difficult one because of the strong connection I have to the staff, Board and community. But, I was drawn to NCSC because of its outstanding reputation for excellence throughout the non-profit community. As a parent of three children, I know that there is nothing more important than being a parent. NCSC partners with, and provides support for parents, so they can be at their best. I believe that helping parents create strong, loving families that raise resilient, confident children is the most compelling work that one can do. Ultimately, these children will grow up to be successful adults and great parents themselves. I look forward to helping NCSC continue to meet the increasing and challenging needs of local children, teens, families and communities.”

Hattie Kerwin Derrick, Board Chair, and Chair of the Search Committee commented, “The search process was highly competitive, with more than 100 applicants. Jon distinguished himself early with the depth of his experience, and his warm, engaging personality. We all look forward to working with Jon as we move the agency forward.” Kerwin Derrick added, “I would also like to thank Bill Morrison, former NCSC Board Chair, for his tireless service for the last four months as Interim Executive Director. Bill’s exceptional listening skills, patience and commitment to NCSC has made this transitional period go smoothly for the staff and the families we serve. We look forward to having Bill rejoin the board in the fall.”