Q&A with Dr. Lisa Purdy, CEO

 

 

From the moment I learned about Christ House, I was struck by the depth of its mission—to offer healing and hope to those experiencing homelessness and complex medical needs. That commitment to compassionate, holistic care felt aligned with everything I value as a leader and as a person. Saying “yes” to this role wasn’t just about the opportunity to lead an organization; it was about joining a legacy of dignity, service, and transformation. I knew it would be both a privilege and a responsibility to steward that legacy into its next chapter.

 

Christ House has an incredible foundation—decades of providing medical respite care rooted in dignity and love. As we look ahead, I believe we have a chance to grow deeper and broader in our impact. That could mean expanding how we address social determinants of health like nutrition, housing stability, or workforce development. It also means continuing to build up the voices of our patients and staff, ensuring that our evolution is shaped by those most directly involved in the work. Growth, for me, is not about changing who we are—it’s about becoming even more fully who we are meant to be.

 

There’s a quiet strength that runs through Christ House. I’ve seen it in the stories of our patients, in the steady commitment of our staff, and in the joy shared over a meal or moment of laughter. I’ve learned that healing doesn’t always happen on a linear path—it happens in relationship, in consistency, and in community. That’s a lesson I carry with me every day.

 

I’m most excited about creating more opportunities—for our staff to grow, for our patients to reclaim their health and agency, and for Christ House to deepen its role as a model of what compassionate healthcare can look like. I see so much potential for innovation that stays grounded in our mission. That might be through new partnerships, program enhancements, or by lifting up stories that help others see the humanity and strength of the people we serve.

 

I believe in leadership that clears the path—not one that directs from above, but one that listens, supports, and removes barriers. For staff, that means investing in their development, creating a culture of trust and accountability, and celebrating their expertise. For our patients, empowerment begins with honoring their stories and building care plans with them, not for them. Everyone at Christ House—staff and patients alike—deserves to feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger.

 

Curiosity, courage, and compassion are at the heart of how I lead. I believe in showing up with integrity, asking good questions, and being willing to try new things—even if they’re hard. I’m also deeply collaborative. I don’t think leadership is ever about one person; it’s about building strong teams, rooted in shared purpose.

 

I hope to leave Christ House even stronger than I found it—more resilient, more inclusive, and more deeply connected to the needs of our community. I want to be remembered as someone who honored the extraordinary foundation built by those before me, while also boldly stepping into what comes next. Ultimately, I hope my time here helps expand what healing looks like—and who gets to access it.

 

My greatest joys are often the simplest: walks with my wife and dog, cheering on my favorite sports teams, or spending time with family and friends. These moments remind me of the beauty in everyday life. They help me stay grounded, especially in work that can be emotionally heavy. I also find strength in humor, gratitude, and in being part of a team that shares a deep commitment to purpose.