(Milford)—The Executive Director and founder of Cherish Center is announcing her retirement from the position. Jan Turner is stepping down from the position she has held since the non-profit organization was formed some 14 years ago.
Cherish Center was originally formed as Shepherd’s Fold in 1999 with the purpose of building a maternity home called Cherish House. Turner led the drive to raise $400,000 to purchase a lot in Spirit Lake and to fund construction of the house in 2004 and 2005. It opened in 2006 and to date has served 45 teen mothers, their babies and their extended families.
She has also put into place mentoring and parenting programs, the No Apologies program and most recently professional counseling services. Turner also oversaw the startup of Thee Garage Sale, Plants to Cherish and the Father-Daughter-Dance.
Laurie Simington, current President of the Cherish Center Board of Directors, has agreed to serve as interim director while the board completes the search and interviewing process for the new Executive Director.
A reception to honor Turner will be held Thursday, June 27th from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. at Cherish Center in Milford. The public is invited.
