By Jurry Taalib-Deen
Journal Staff Writer
Pathway, Inc. is pleased to announce the selection of Jay Black, Jr. as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Black brings with him a wealth of leadership experience in the private, public and non-profit sectors. Mr. Black earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Toledo and attended the University of Michigan School of Business. Additionally, Mr. Black has 15 years of experience as a local small business owner.
With 20 years in the banking system, under his belt, as well as, years of experience in city government, and being a business owner, Mr. Black feels like he’s well suited for his new position.
The main objective of Pathway, Jay Black, CEO, told The Toledo Journal during a phone interview, on Sunday, December 6, is to help people get out of poverty, and move into self-sufficiency.
With only a week on the job, he’s determined to introduce the public to the programs that will help fulfill the organization’s objective. Fatherhood, home energy assistance, workforce development, education, seniors and the disabled, and empowerment services are the programs that will help Pathway meet their objective.
Perhaps the most pressing issue at hand is the Home Relief Emergency Services Program, which is a grant Pathway received from the State of Ohio, via the federal government, in the amount of $2.3 million dollars. The grant helps people behind on rent, mortgage and water/sewer utility bills. To date, $1.2 million dollars have helped people throughout Lucas County. But, Mr. Black is faced with a December 30 deadline to use the remainder of the money, or it has to be sent back to the state.
“Sending the money back isn’t something we plan on doing. There are a lot of good and hardworking people here at Pathway, and we plan on using all of the money to help out as many people possible,” he said.
“This pandemic has affected a lot of middle class people. The challenges they’re facing, are probably a first for them, and we want to help as many of them out as possible,” Mr. Black said. “None of this is the fault of regular Americans. No one anticipated this type of devastation.”
Pathway is located at 505 Hamilton St., inside the Hamilton Building. To find out more about qualifying for aid, visit pathwaytoledo.org or call 419.242.7304.
