The Board of Directors at Union Rescue Mission (URM) today announced that Mark Hood has joined the organization as Chief Executive Officer. Hood succeeds the Reverend Andy Bales who retired on December 31, 2023, after nearly two decades of service and leadership at URM. Jeff Hudson, a tenured member of the Board of Directors, has served as the Interim CEO since Bales’ departure. Richard Baker, who formerly oversaw all operations at the mission, has been promoted to President. The new leadership structure positions URM to broaden its impact on those experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles.
“Mark brings a passion for helping the neediest and for bringing hope, transformation and recovery to all who seek it at Union Rescue Mission. The demand for URM’s services is at an all-time high, and the strain on our resources is significant. The appointment of Hood and the promotion of Baker are crucial steps in ensuring that the organization can meet the growing needs of our guests. Their collaboration will be instrumental in equipping URM for success in this new chapter. We’re also extremely grateful for Jeff Hudson’s service during this transition,” said Board Chairman David Wood.
Mark Hood, previously a senior leader at PPG Aerospace, brings a wealth of experience leading, building, and motivating teams and a passion for positive change to URM. Hood’s tenure at PPG was marked by his expertise in change and risk management, reengineering, and continuous organizational improvement. His functional experience, ranging from engineering to logistics to sales, is critical as URM expands its footprint across LA County. Hood’s key focus will be establishing partnerships, driving growth, and sharing stories of life transformation in the community it serves. Mark and his wife, Donna, have been married for 39 years and are natives of Alabama. They have five children and twelve grandchildren.
“Ever since I stepped foot on URM’s Hope Gardens campus years ago, I felt God calling me to this ministry. I’m humbled by the opportunity to work alongside this team of people committed to treating everyone with the compassion of Christ, and I’m looking forward to being a part of the life transformation that takes place here every day,” said Mark Hood.
Richard Baker previously served as Chief Operating Officer, leading the strategic operations for URM since 2022. He rapidly expanded his scope across all three URM locations and is deeply immersed in the day-to-day issues impacting guests and staff. He understands Skid Row and has extensive knowledge of the mission as well as deep ties and connections in Los Angeles. Before joining URM, Richard was a hospitality industry executive with decades of leadership experience.
Richard Baker shared, “URM’s work is unique and challenging, but its impact is so great. Everyday we get to touch the lives of those who live in the shadows of Skid Row and beyond. I’m thrilled to be a part of URM’s next chapter — growing our reach and changing more lives.
Hood’s appointment and Baker’s promotion conclude a national search process completed by the Search Committee in partnership with Bill Peterson at CarterBaldwin Executive Search.
About Union Rescue Mission: Union Rescue Mission is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving those experiencing homelessness. Established in 1891, URM is one of the largest rescue missions of its kind and the oldest in Los Angeles. It provides a comprehensive array of emergency and long-term services, including food, shelter, and clothing; medical and dental care; Christian recovery programs, transitional housing, legal assistance, education, counseling, and job training for needy men, women, children, and families.