New chief appointed for former Whistlestop
Vivalon, the San Rafael organization formerly known as Whistlestop, has named a veteran nonprofit leader as its new chief executive.
The move comes as a key moment for the organization, which serves older and disabled adults. Construction is expected to begin this year on the nonprofit’s new campus in downtown San Rafael.
“It’s exciting that there is so much that we’re doing right now,” said Anne Grey, 55, of Larkspur, the new chief executive. “During COVID, we’ve pivoted Vivalon to virtual programs, expanded food services, just really being able to rise to the occasion — meeting the needs of the community.”
Grey began her new role last week working alongside retiring chief executive Joe O’Hehir, who is exiting the organization after 12 years. His last day is Feb. 28.
“It may appear like there’s a lot of change, but in truth, we’re still doing what we’ve always done,” O’Hehir said. “Our commitment will never change. We will always be Marin’s hub for healthy aging.”
Grey has nearly three decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and health care advocacy. She has worked as the executive director at the Alzheimer’s Association Orange County chapter and as vice president at Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in Southern California.
“I’ve been so engaged by the excitement of the board,” Grey said. “Joe’s willingness to introduce me to the community will help Vivalon into the future in a very strong way.”
During his tenure, O’Hehir led Whistlestop’s growth into a $12 million nonprofit with more than 400 employees and volunteers serving more than 14,000 people in Marin, San Francisco and Sonoma counties.
The nonprofit might be best known for its transportation service through its partnership with Marin Access, Marin Transit and Golden Gate Transit. It also supplies medical rides and private shuttles.
Rides dropped by 25% as the pandemic took hold. The agency typically provides about 10,000 rides a month, O’Hehir said.
The organization’s other services — such as meals, grocery deliveries, check-in calls, mask production, classes and social connec