Long-Time Employee Daren Strunk Promoted to COO

After too many years shuffling papers and chasing dollars that left him unfulfilled, a bit of serendipity brought Daren Strunk to SJW nearly 10 years ago. And, that good fortune has continued, which is why we are excited to share he has been promoted to COO.

Daren started as a volunteer before joining SJW full-time as what he refers to as “Outreach Specialist No. 1” as he was the first person to work outside of the Human Services Campus. During his time at SJW from employment services to operations, Daren has worn many hats, learning the ins and outs of the organization, while finding innovative ways to grow it.

When meeting Daren for the first time, it doesn’t take long for his passion to shine through, and some might even say it’s contagious. Daren explains, “We all have something inside us that wants to give back or make an impact on people’s lives. I’m able, on a daily basis, to teach clients how to overcome barriers to self-sustainability. Who doesn’t want to be a part of helping people get to the next spot – whether that’s employment or housing – and providing hope to people who might not have it? 

I know we are the best and most effective at what we do because that’s all we do. And, it’s even more rewarding working with such a great group of people who care about the same things. It’s been 10 years since I joined SJW and it still doesn’t feel like work to me. I never thought I would say that about my job.”

Congratulations, Daren!

Start Your Week With SJW

Subscribe to receive updates about new blog posts and client success stories every Monday morning. 

Subscribe Blog Footer

Like this article?

Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on Linkdin
Share on Pinterest

Similar Posts

Providing Pathways to Self-Sufficiency

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT: ST. JOSEPH THE WORKER – CARRIE MASTERS Providing Pathways to Self-Sufficiency Tell us a little bit about St. Joseph the Worker (SJW) and what makes it unique.SJW has been providing pathways to self-sufficiency with employment at the core for over 35 years. SJW is responsible for assisting more individuals in quality, paying jobs

Read More »

Frank’s Success Story

Frank, originally from Brooklyn, moved to Arizona in 2022. He struggled to maintain housing after moving to Phoenix because he didn’t have the savings to pay application fees, a deposit and his first month’s rent. Although Frank had been employed with Dexcom for over a year, he rented a room, stayed in daily motels and

Read More »

Without A Home: KTAR News

During this live interview with KTAR Morning News, CEO Carrie Masters discusses the current state of the community, faced with homelessness. St. Joseph the Worker is providing solutions to the source of this problem: employment. Listen to Carrie discuss the resources that SJW offers to clients to assist when it comes to getting a job!  

Read More »

Leave a comment