Angela Settle feels as if the past seven years have prepared her for what she considers God’s answer to her prayers. On Tuesday, Settle was named the new executive director of the Help Office of Owensboro.
Settle, who replaces Woody Woodward, said, “I have prayed for God to guide me in how and where to best serve the less fortunate and his path for me has been busy, exhilarating, and life changing. I believe the seven years since my retirement have prepared me for what I once told someone would be my ‘dream job’ — the director at the Help Office.”
After 26 years with the Owensboro Medical Health System she retired in 2012. With her husband’s support, she left her job “with the sole purpose of helping others, in particular the less fortunate.”
Settle was already a volunteer on the St. Vincent de Paul Society at Immaculate Church, an organization that helps with emergency assistance and also volunteered at the Help Office interviewing clients.
“I fell in love with the Help Office and eventually had the privilege of becoming a member of the Help Office Board of Directors,” she said.
Shortly after retiring from her position in the hospital’s Quality Support Department, she became the only member of the Homeless Council of Ohio Valley representing volunteers who work with various agencies.
As a result of that experience Settle said not only did she learn about the nonprofit world and services they provide, she was surrounded by individuals who had the love and passion for the less fortunate.
She credits her volunteer experiences with helping her be prepared for her new position at the Help Office.
Settle said she takes inspiration from local people who direct community programs.
“I have the greatest admiration for Harry Pedigo, director at St. Benedict’s Shelter, and Michele Ison, executive director, at Crossroads Inc., and Crossroads to Hope Shelter,” she said. “With their encouragement, I served as the assistant director at St. Benedict’s and currently serve on the Crossroads’ Board.”
The Help Office serves Daviess County residents who can show emergency financial need.
