Longtime employee tapped to be new CEO of one of Lexington’s largest homeless shelters
A longtime employee of one of Lexington’s largest and oldest homeless shelters has been tapped as its new chief executive officer.
Jeff Crook, who has served as interim director for 10 months, has been appointed chief executive officer of the Hope Center, according to Hope Center officials.
“Jeff’s service at the Hope Center for the last 26 years and especially his guidance and leadership over the past 10 months as the interim executive director demonstrated his loyalty, dedication and comprehensive organizational knowledge,” said Hope Center Board Chair Cathy Jacobs.
The Hope Center board voted unanimously to hire Crook for the position.
Crook will replace Rufus Friday, who was hired for the top job in July 2021, and left the position a little less than a year ago. Friday is the former publisher of the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Crook also has previously served as chief operating officer and chief financial officer with the Hope Center.
Crook, a resident of Midway, holds a master’s degree in Christian ministry and homiletics from Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Kentucky.
The Hope Center operates an emergency shelter for men, multiple programs for men and women who have substance abuse disorder and mental illness, a transitional housing programs, street outreach and free health clinics. It is one of Lexington’s largest homeless service providers.
