A New Chapter as We Approach 60 Years: Impact NW Leadership Announcement

The Board of Directors of Impact NW is excited to announce the appointment of Rachel Essig as our new Executive Director.

Following a thoughtful and comprehensive search process, the Board is confident that Rachel is the right leader to guide Impact NW forward. Rachel brings more than 20 years of strategic, mission-driven leadership, aligning vision with strong financial, operational, and programmatic management delivering measurable community impact.

Throughout her career, Rachel has successfully collaborated with elected officials, business and community leaders, and public agencies to drive both immediate results and long-term systemic change. Proficient in Spanish and English, she has also volunteered in Central America with non-governmental organizations focused on advancing housing, literacy and education.

Rachel is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to fostering environments where all individuals and families can thrive. A skilled fundraiser, project manager, and team builder, she is passionate about advancing complex, values-centered initiatives that strengthen communities and create lasting opportunities.

The Board would also like to extend its sincere gratitude to Kendra Johnson for her expert leadership during the interim period. Kendra’s dedication, professionalism and care ensured continuity and stability for the organization during a critical time of transition. We are deeply appreciative of Kendra along with the Impact NW Leadership Team for the stewardship and strength they demonstrated on behalf of Impact NW’s staff, partners and community.

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Founded in 1966, Impact NW is a community-based nonprofit organization committed to preventing homelessness by helping people thrive regardless of their circumstances. To change lives, we partner with local and state government, health care providers, and other nonprofit organizations to deliver more than 30 programs across four key areas: Housing, Youth and Family, Early Childhood, and Seniors.

Through housing stability, early childhood education, financial empowerment, and family support services, Impact NW partners with individuals and families to build opportunity, resilience, and long-term well-being. Grounded in equity and community connection, we work alongside our neighbors to create pathways to lasting change and stronger futures.

More than half of the people we serve – as well as our staff—identify as Indigenous, Black, Brown, Melanated, Immigrant, or Asian, reflecting the communities we are proud to be part of. More than 94% of our clients report that our support helps them stabilize and strengthen their lives. We don’t just point people in the right direction – we walk alongside them, helping to navigate and bridge complex, unjust systems that too often create barriers for those most in need.

The Board of Directors looks forward to partnership with Rachel Essig and the entire Impact NW team as we continue advancing our mission and serving our community.

Please join us in welcoming Rachel Essig to Impact NW!

Rachel says, “I’m honored to join Impact NW as we reach 60 years of service to our community. This organization’s commitment to dignity, opportunity, and walking alongside people through life’s challenges deeply reflects the values that have guided my career. I’m excited to work together to build on this strong legacy and continue creating pathways to stability and possibility.”