New leader takes office at Catholic Community Services of Lane County

Robert watts

SPRINGFIELD – The new executive director of Catholic Community Services of Lane County has worked for the Diocese of Raleigh, North Carolina, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the American Cancer Society. Through it all, Robert Watts remembered something his mother told him on his first day in Kindergarten: “Everyone you meet today is a potential new friend. “

Watts took up his new post in Oregon on November 3.

“This is a motto that I live by today and will bring to those we serve at CCS,” said Watts. “I want us to continue to keep in mind that those we serve are our top priority and are the reason we exist as an organization. ”

Watts said he plans to spend the next 60 days listening primarily to customers and staff.

It begins as the agency’s cold shelter program and winter clothing drive begins. “It’s important to me that everyone knows that the Lane County CCS and its services are accessible to everyone,” Watts said. “We also depend on a community of volunteers and donors to achieve our goals. Service opportunities are open to everyone. I like the boots in the field, the service oriented ministry. It excites me.”

Sue Payment, former executive director, resigns at the end of November. Former member of the board of directors and former director of development, Paiement has been with the organization since 2007.

“One of the most heartwarming parts of being a Managing Director has been meeting and interacting with customers and hearing the customer stories that CCS staff share with me every month,” said Paiement. “It helps me remember why we do what we do. “

Calling the retreat “bittersweet,” she plans to spend more time with six grandchildren, aged 3 or younger.

The agency began 70 years ago as a Lane County Catholic charity under the leadership of Bishop Edmund Murnane. Early programs included adoptions, support for foster children, and counseling for single mothers. Today, services such as family care and immediate assistance in the form of food and clothing still exist.