Former Ballou Senior High School principal and Ward 8 candidate for the D.C. Council has settled into his new job as the chief executive officer for the (ERFSC), based in Ward 7 in Northeast.
鈥淭his is a great, great place,鈥 said Branch, 鈥渨ith a great mission. This organization works to meet the needs of Black people.鈥
ERFSC is a social service organization that works to prevent youth from entering the child welfare system and supports seniors primarily in Wards 1, 7 and 8. The organization provides case management, parent education and support programs, and family re-housing stabilization efforts.
Branch replaces Mae H. Best as CEO. He began his duties on Oct. 1.
Branch said he hasn鈥檛 initiated changes in the organization as of yet, saying he wants feedback from the staff and the public. He said poverty in the District doesn鈥檛 recognize ward lines and is committed to eliminating it as much as possible.
鈥淔ighting senior poverty is a top priority,鈥 he said. 鈥淲e have to help them deal with the cost-of-living increases in the city. Our seniors were here during the tough years, and they deserve to be treated with respect.鈥
Branch said he would like the organization to strengthen its offerings to its clients in the areas of health and wellness, homeownership and career development.
Janice Davis serves as the chairman of the board of ERFSC and was fully behind Branch鈥檚 hiring.
鈥淩ahman has had an illustrious career in the District of Columbia,鈥 Davis said. 鈥淚 knew him from when he was at Ballou. He will bring a good perspective to the program. This is a people spot, not a position where someone sits behind a desk all day.鈥