Hanson Named New CROSS Outreach Director

The CROSS Outreach Board is pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Gary Hanson as the new executive director of CROSS Outreach.  Hanson, an ordained Reformed Church of America pastor, comes to the position after many years of ministry. He has served congregations in northern Iowa, Pella, and most recently Meredith Drive Reformed Church in Urbandale. In addition to his faith-based background, Hanson will build on his years of experience working within the local nonprofit community. The Wisconsin native is married to Margo, and they have two daughters. 

“I am very grateful for this opportunity to join the life-changing work that CROSS has so faithfully provided over the past 50 years,” Hanson commented on his appointment. “I am thankful for the love and care that Roberta Victor poured into this role during her time as the executive director. And I am extremely excited to discover along with everyone who is a part of CROSS Outreach what the future holds!”

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, CROSS was founded as a mission of the former Cottage Grove Avenue Presbyterian Church with the support of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). In 2019, the organization changed its name and incorporated as a separate nonprofit agency. The executive director position opened when Roberta Victor, Ph.D., retired on April 1, 2023 after 31 years with the organization.

CROSS Outreach, formerly known as CROSS Ministries, is a Des Moines metro-based nonprofit working to prevent homelessness with compassion and keep low-income families in their homes. CROSS provides housing and utility payment and basic needs assistance to individuals.

Rev. Nathan Williams, board vice-president and head of the hiring committee, commended Hanson, saying “Gary was our unanimous top choice to become the next executive director. We were impressed with his deep commitment to serving those in need and his understanding of what our organization will need as we grow into the future. He has the skills to lead us through change, build great relationships, and keep our focus on the clients who need us.  Gary will be a great fit for CROSS and the neighbors we serve.”

CROSS Outreach can be reached at https://crossoutreachdm.org or P.O. Box 12121, Des Moines, Iowa 50312.