Springboard Delaware welcomes Ogden as new chair

Springboard Delaware recently announced the appointment of Tom Ogden as its board chair. 

The nonprofit organization is dedicated to eradicating homelessness, building affordable communities and fostering health equity, self-sufficiency and long-term stability for individuals and families in need in the First State.

Ogden brings extensive experience in public service, policy and urban affairs to the board.

He served earlier as neighborhood development director for the City of Wilmington, where he focused on improving residents’ quality of life with a special interest in affordable housing. He also served on the staff of Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki, where he worked on strategic initiatives addressing homelessness, housing access and neighborhood revitalization.

“Tom’s background in local government and his deep understanding of Delaware’s civic landscape inform his commitment to equity and community-based solutions. As board chair, he brings valuable leadership on public partnerships and policy strategy, supporting Springboard’s mission to expand low-barrier housing and recovery services across the state. Please join us in welcoming Tom to lead our growing board of directors,” said Judson Malone, Springboard Delaware executive director.

The Springboard team believes everyone deserves a safe, stable place to call home. Springboard focuses on developing sustainable housing communities, low-barrier navigation centers and Springboard cottage communities, which provide not only shelter but also access to essential services like healthcare, job training and education. Its approach centers on creating supportive environments where residents can thrive, build meaningful connections and work toward self-sufficiency.

Springboard Delaware is actively seeking community members and Delaware professionals who share a genuine passion to eradicate homelessness to consider joining its board.

“Has homelessness ever touched your life (family, friend, acquaintance)? Have you ever asked yourself the question, how can I help? We are currently seeking individuals to join our board of directors who are passionate about our mission to achieve functional zero homelessness in Delaware — where homelessness is rare, brief and non-recurring. Please contact me at Tom@SpringbaordDelaware.org to inquire as to how you can make an impact today. Learn more about our work and get involved at SpringboardDelaware.org,” said Ogden.

Springboard has seen tremendous early results in its first two years. Some 80% of participants have not returned to unsheltered homelessness, and over 72% have received substance-use or mental health services. In all, 31% have gained employment, 91% were connected to new medical providers and 10% have attended GED or training classes.

“Our work is based on creating strong partnerships with state government, community organizations and private-sector partners. Together, we leverage resources, expertise and innovative approaches to tackle Delaware's housing crisis and ensure that every person can achieve their full potential. As we continue to expand our impact, we remain committed to our core values of compassion, collaboration and sustainability. Our credo is All Housed, Vibrant Lives, with a goal of functional zero homelessness, which essentially means that homelessness is rare, brief and non-recurring,” said Jeffery Ronald, Springboard Delaware co-founder.