Glen Ellyn Resident Named CEO of Bridge Communities

Glen Ellyn is known as the "Village of Volunteers," and one of its own is now leading a local organization that serves the homeless throughout DuPage County.

John Hayner, long-time Glen Ellyn resident, was recently named Chief Executive Officer of , which is based right here in Glen Ellyn. Bridge Communities serves more than 100 homeless families a year in DuPage County, providing them with transitional living and other services.  

Hayner is no stranger to Glen Ellyn. He and his wife moved to Glen Ellyn 27 years ago and raised their four children here. Before joining Bridge Communities, Hayner worked as the Chief Operating Officer at Perspectives Charter School in Chicago. Hayner also dedicated his time to volunteering for Glen Ellyn groups like Anima Young Singers and Teen Parent Connection.  

Hayner said he is excited to join an organization with an excellent staff and large group of volunteers with deep connections into the community.

"That's what I think differentiates us from a lot of the non profits," said Hayner. 

Looking to the future, Hayner said his first task is to complete a visioning exercise where staffers can weigh in on what the future should look like for Bridge Communities. Hayner said the group will continue with the same legacy of serving the homeless, but may branch out to include more volunteer services. 

“John joins Bridge Communities at a time of substantial community need, as so many DuPage County families struggle to find and maintain affordable housing.  John’s leadership will strengthen an already highly-skilled team of professional staff and volunteers.  Bridge will continue to provide the largest and most effective transitional housing program in DuPage County,” said Bridge Communities Board Chairman Tim Boyd, in a statement to the press.