Stamford’s Pacific House picks new leader

VP of Bridgeport Y takes reins of homeless shelter

STAMFORD — Pacific House, which works to prevent homelessness in Fairfield County, named Carmen I. Colon as its new president and CEO.

Colon was vice president of the Bridgeport Ys, a branch of the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA.

“With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Colon brings a wealth of experience in non-profit leadership and community service to Pacific House,” read a news release on Colon’s hiring. “Colon has made significant and innovative contributions to the nonprofit sector, particularly in the areas of housing development, running shelters, strategic planning and community engagement.”

According to the release, Colon will focus on expanding Pacific House’s affordable housing portfolio, enhancing supportive services and furthering the organization’s impact in Fairfield County.

“I want to thank the board, staff and stakeholders for your confidence in me and the opportunity to serve as a leader in the important mission of preventing and ending homelessness,” Colon said in the release. “Together, we have the power to make a real and lasting impact on the lives of those in need.”

Colon will succeed Rafael Pagan, who, according to the news release, helped Pacific House evolve from an emergency men’s shelter into a leading provider of permanent supportive housing.

“Pacific House is confident that Colon’s leadership will continue and expand upon the growth and success of its efforts to prevent and end homelessness,” read the release. “The organization looks forward to working under Colon’s guidance to provide safe, affordable housing and comprehensive support services to men, women and families in need.”

For more information about Pacific House and its programs, visit www.pacifichouse.org.