October 8, 2009 -- It’s rare to find a job you really love and that’s exactly what I’ve had these last nine years, serving as Groundwire’s executive director. It’s the best job I’ve ever had.

Now this wonderful period of my life is coming to a close. I have decided to move on from my job as executive director. You can find more details about this transition in the message from Groundwire Board President, Dan Crouse.

Groundwire has changed quite a bit since I started this job in early 2001. Back then, our staff members spent their days crawling around in utility closets, wiring computer networks. Today we’re building websites, relationship management databases, and helping environmental organizations develop strategies to better engage their communities.

Despite all these changes, there are many things that remain the same. The culture of Groundwire and the commitment of its staff remain as strong and true as what first attracted me here nine years ago. The organization remains committed to one simple founding premise: technology is a powerful force for connecting people who are working to protect the planet.

I am extremely proud of the work we have done during my time here. In the coming weeks, we’ll be unveiling some exciting new changes. My decision to step down now, just in advance of these changes, is no accident. These changes are, in a way, the capstone of my tenure here and an important foundation for the next executive director who will lead a new and exciting phase in this remarkable organization.

My next steps are intentionally open at this time. I have no plans to take another job right away. What I do intend to do next is to write. Some years ago, I wrote a piece called “Movement as Network” and I am once again feeling that writer’s call.

I am grateful to many of you now reading this note. So many people have contributed so much to the Groundwire mission: our volunteers, our clients, our supporters, our Board of Directors, and, most of all, our staff. I thank you all for your hard work, your passion, and your faith in this important mission – both for what you have contributed already, and for what I know you will contribute well into the future.

 

Gideon Rosenblatt
Executive Director