LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2018 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- On December 3, 2018, the board of directors of 1in6 officially announced Matthew Ennis as the new chief executive officer of the national nonprofit—one of only a handful in the world dedicated to helping male-identifying survivors of sexual abuse and assault. Ennis brings nearly two decades of experience with him to 1in6, and his appointment coincides with a momentous period for the organization as it continues to raise awareness of a critical and often invisible issue.
The announcement regarding 1in6's leadership transition served as the culmination of a fundraising event hosted by 1in6 and The Barrow Group Theatre in New York City. The centerpiece of the night was a moving performance of Martin Moran's Obie Award-winning play The Tricky Part. The one-man show was bookended by remarks from 1in6 Founder and Executive Director Steve LePore. LePore, who is retiring at the end of the year, thanked the board of directors for their ongoing support, and formally presented Ennis as the new chief executive officer of 1in6.
Following the event, LePore said, "Over the past 12 years, 1in6 has grown into a wonderful example of what a technically adept and culturally responsive organization can accomplish in the 21st century. Most importantly, it has played a vital role in allowing more male survivors the opportunity to find support. I am confident that under Matthew's guidance, 1in6 will not only continue to flourish, but take a substantial leap forward in its evolution."
1in6 board vice chair and actor Anthony Edwards was also in attendance for the benefit performance, and enthusiastically echoed LePore's sentiment: "1in6 is truly a model for the future of nonprofits—existing primarily online, and leveraging the digital space as a platform to reach a diverse group of survivors. I am thrilled to welcome Matthew to 1in6. His expertise and vision resonate deeply with the spirit of our organization."
Dr. David Lisak, a founding board member of 1in6 and incoming board chair, praised Ennis for his "sterling record of service," and emphasized that "Matthew's incisive perspective and informed approach will significantly augment our work. I know I speak on behalf of the entire board of directors when I say that he is the ideal candidate to advance the mission of 1in6."
Ennis' tenure with 1in6 commences on January 2, 2019. When asked about his vision, he said, "It is with tremendous admiration and respect that I step into my position at the helm of 1in6, which has been a thought leader in employing internet-based tools and resources to both amplify the positive human impact we can have on the lives of male survivors, and shed an unwavering light on male sexual abuse and assault. It is my privilege to join this outstanding organization and uphold 1in6's unique philosophy, while ensuring we continue to discover how new technological horizons will enhance our ability to help male survivors live healthier, happier lives."
Ennis began his career as the youngest director of public relations and health education in Missouri's history. He went on to become a nonprofit consultant and successful entrepreneur. Currently, he serves as chief executive officer of Freedom's Rest Family Violence Center, a nonprofit dedicated to providing shelter and advocacy to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and promoting education to break the cycle of violence.
Researchers have found that at least 1 in 6 men have experienced sexual abuse or assault, whether in childhood or as adults. The mission of 1in6 includes serving family members, friends, partners, and service providers by providing information and support resources on the web and in the community. 1in6's initiatives include online support groups for survivors and partners, a 24/7 helpline, presentations and trainings for those who treat male survivors, and awareness-raising campaigns, such as 1in6's recent public service announcement, which has garnered more than 4 million views across various platforms since its release in April 2018.
All media inquiries may be directed to 1in6 Development and Communications Director Seth Stewart at seth(at)1in6.org.
SOURCE 1in6, Inc.
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