Norris named chief of mentoring program

Charlottesville Mayor Dave Norris has been hired as the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge, a local chapter of the national youth mentoring organization.

Norris previously worked as the executive director of People and Congregations Engaged in Ministry, which runs a seasonal homeless shelter.

“I was ready for a different professional challenge,” Norris said.

Norris had planned to take the summer off and start work again after the Nov. 3 election — when it will be decided whether he will be re-elected to the City Council — but he ended up starting at Big Brothers Big Sisters this week because the organization wanted to fill its head position sooner. Norris said he would be working part-time until after the election.

Norris said he’s had a longtime passion for youth mentoring, especially after administering a similar program through Madison House at the University of Virginia.

“I just saw firsthand the power of mentoring and how mentors can make such a positive difference in the lives of kids who may just need a little more support and guidance,” he said.

The local Big Brothers Big Sisters recently expanded to have an office in Charlottesville, and Norris said the organization needs a “new infusion of energy.” The organization does not get any funding from the Charlottesville budget.

PACEM’s new executive director, Colleen Keller, started July 1.