COVID Struggles Pushes Housing Initiatives Of Princeton’s Executive Director To Step Down

PRINCETON, NJ — Kathleen Gittleman, the first Executive Director of Housing Initiavites Of Princeton (HIP) will be stepping down due to struggles with long COVID, the organization said.

Lori Troilo, who was previously Volunteer Coordinator, will be stepping in as interim Executive Director. Trolio brings with her extensive experience in fund development and human resources from her tenure at the non-profit Trenton Circus Squad.

“We are so grateful for Kathleen’s thoughtful stewardship through a pivotal time for the organization, which included working on its Strategic Plan, and overseeing the expansion of HIP’s transitional housing program,” HIP said.

During Kathleen’s tenure, HIP added an eighth housing unit to its inventory and there are already plans to add two more over the next two years.

Three families graduated from HIP’s transitional housing this summer into safe, permanent homes and stable employment, with a fourth family in final stages of qualifying for an affordable Princeton apartment this month.

Rae Padulo will be filling in as interim Volunteer Coordinator. Rae is a copywriter, past HIP volunteer, and former treasurer of a non-profit foundation that helped women with their education and healthcare needs.

HIP will be hosting its fall fundraiser 2023 - ‘3 by Three’ Rent Party at The Watershed Institute on Oct. 21 to welcome Trolio and Padulo. Click here to purchase tickets.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com