Mike Bertrand Takes Leadership Role at Hesed House

Mike Bertrand has been appointed as the executive director of Hesed House, a homeless shelter in Aurora. His interest in this role began earlier this year when the position became available. Bertrand, known for his successful tenure as president and CEO of Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois, significantly improved financial stability in various organizations. He doubled a budget from $25 million to more than $50 million and spearheaded fundraising efforts, partnerships, and mergers that expanded community programs statewide.

Despite his achievements, Bertrand, a 61-year-old licensed clinical social worker, missed working directly with communities, especially vulnerable ones, as he had done earlier in his career. His familiarity with Hesed House extends beyond professional interest. Having lived in Aurora for 30 years, he understands the shelter’s impact firsthand. As a child protection investigator for the Department of Children and Family Services, Bertrand often brought families to the shelter, witnessing the critical role played by staff and volunteers.

Bertrand officially assumes his leadership role on October 19, following Joe Jackson’s resignation in the spring. Ryan Dowd, a former executive director of Hesed House, temporarily filled the position until Bertrand’s appointment. Dowd expressed his excitement about Bertrand joining the team, highlighting their shared values and commitment to ensuring dignity for the most vulnerable.

Bertrand acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly with federal funding cuts affecting those on the economic edge. “If we don’t rise to those challenges, what will that mean for the people we need to help?” he said, highlighting the necessity of resilience in tackling these issues. He recognizes the stigma surrounding homelessness but notes how the pandemic and opioid crisis have shifted perceptions. More people understand that those struggling are not much different from themselves.

Hesed House benefits from over 7,500 volunteers who interact with those in need, helping reduce fears and misconceptions. Bertrand wants more community members to visit the shelter, emphasizing the importance of meeting basic human needs for the unhoused. This mission evolves over time, requiring adaptability in addressing service gaps, such as those left by the closure of the Living Room program and Mercy Medical Center’s crisis intervention unit. “You have to be nimble enough to pivot,” Bertrand stated, underscoring the ongoing necessity to prevent street homelessness.

Enthused about his new position, Bertrand is “ready to get at it.” Having been married to his wife Sue for 36 years, Bertrand finds support in her role as head of the Aurora Regional Economic Alliance. Together, they have raised three daughters and are committed to contributing to the Aurora community. Julie Proscia, Board of Directors Chair, expressed excitement over Bertrand’s appointment, noting his deep ties to Aurora and his blend of empathy and leadership experience which promises to prioritize the needs of those served by Hesed House.