Lessie Bates director resigns in East St. Louis
The head of the Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House abruptly resigned Wednesday morning shortly after he arrived in his office.
No one on the board will say why, and Christopher Coleman could not be reached for comment.
Doreen Hoosman, treasurer of Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House, 1200 N. 13th St., confirmed the resignation. She declined further comment.
“We will continue our ministry and mission to service the poor and needy families in our area,” Hoosman said. Other members could not be reached, including Earl McDowell, president of the board.
Coleman took over as executive director of Lessie Bates on July 1, 2016, and had worked for the agency for a number of years prior to taking over.
Coleman was appointed to succeed Bill Kreeb, who led the agency for more than 30 years.
Lessie Bates is a comprehensive social service agency that is 103 years old. Services include providing food, clothing and emergency assistance to the need, plus training opportunities.
Carolyn P. Smith: 618-239-2503
This story was originally published January 11, 2018 at 2:39 PM with the headline "Lessie Bates director resigns in East St. Louis."