We're proud to announce an important milestone in our community's development and growth.
Erika Hanson Brown, COLONTOWN’s founding Mayor, is stepping out of that role to focus on her position as CEO of PALTOWN, the non-profit organization that financially supports COLONTOWN. Based on the successful model of COLONTOWN, PALTOWN seeks to develop other communities that will empower patients across a range of health conditions.
We extend our thanks to Erika for nearly a decade of tireless work in building COLONTOWN into a unique community that now empowers 5,000+ colorectal cancer patients and caregivers.
Several long-time COLONTOWN leaders have stepped up to facilitate this transition. Kim Rozinsky Austin, Diane Bendtsen, Manju George, Lari Johnston, Stacey Runfola, and Steve Schwarze have worked with PALTOWN to maintain continuity of leadership and operations. Moving forward, Steve will serve as Interim Mayor, supported by an advisory Cabinet that includes Kim, Lari, and Diane. They will continue to work with our Deputy Mayors and dozens of volunteer neighborhood administrators to advance our mission.
We aspire to live up to the core practices that make COLONTOWN such a special place, while constantly seeking ways to improve the experience of our members and administrators. We will strive to:
- Provide support from fellow patients and caregivers
- Educate the community about CRC, treatment options, and side effects
- Help members develop strategies to meet personal goals
- Collaborate with other CRC organizations that align with our mission
- Engage and empower the many volunteers who administer our neighborhoods
- Serve all who seek our help
We look forward to celebrating this significant amount in COLONTOWN’s history, giving thanks, and continuing to help those affected by CRC.
To Life!
– The COLONTOWN Cabinet and the PALTOWN Board of Directors