Mission Appoints First Black Woman Director In Its 157-Year History

by | Apr 2, 2024 | Homelessness

Katrina Coleman was introduced to Olive Branch Mission 20 years ago after her brother attended a rehab program at the shelter. She became the nonprofit’s executive director in March. Credit: Provided/Facebook

This article is by ATAVIA REED atavia@blockclubchi.org Atavia Reed is a reporter for Block Club Chicago, covering the Englewood, Auburn Gresham and Chatham neighborhoods.

ENGLEWOOD — Katrina Coleman had no clue she’d become a part of Olive Branch Mission’s storied history when she first visited 20 years ago. 

Every Sunday, Coleman would travel to 6310 S. Claremont Ave. to visit her brother at the nonprofit’s drug rehab program, she said. He had been to rehab before, but at Olive Branch Mission, “there was an immediate change” in her brother, she said. 

In the building’s crowded halls, “you could see the camaraderie. It was like a family between the residents and staff members,” Coleman said. “Everyone was treated with dignity and respect.” 

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