We mourn the loss of Dan Baldwin, a beloved leader, dedicated advocate, and the first-ever Chair Emeritus of Care For the Homeless. Dan’s passing in February 2025 leaves behind a profound legacy of service, wisdom, and compassion. His leadership helped shape CFH into the strong and mission-driven organization it is today. 

Dan was a steadfast leader who guided CFH through one of its most pivotal transitions—the search for a new CEO in 2016. With his steady demeanor and confidence, he ensured a seamless leadership transition following the departure of then-Executive Director Bobby Watts to the National Health Care for the Homeless Council. Dan’s leadership was instrumental in appointing an interim executive director and ultimately hiring CFH’s current President & CEO, George Nashak. 

Over twelve years of dedicated service to CFH, Dan’s leadership was marked by strategic vision and unwavering commitment. He first joined the Board in September 2012 and served as Chair from 2016 to 2019. Beyond his tenure as Chair, he played an integral role in multiple committees, including the Strategic Planning Committee, which led CFH’s most recent five-year plan. As an accomplished attorney, Dan brought keen insight, governance expertise, and a profound personal dedication to the issue of homelessness. 

For Dan, homelessness was deeply personal. In 2019, he shared:

“For many years, my younger brother Jimmy has existed on the margins, with no permanent home. His situation made me aware of the many hardships faced by people who are experiencing homelessness. His experiences spurred me to join CFH’s efforts to break down the daunting barriers to the achievement of a better life.” 

Dan Baldwin

Dan often reminded us, “Everyone is someone’s Jimmy.” This simple yet powerful truth, instilled by his mother, guided his advocacy and leadership. He never lost sight of the humanity of those struggling with homelessness, ensuring that CFH remained focused on dignity, compassion, and solutions. 

Testimonials from CFH Leadership 

George Nashak, President & CEO:

“Dan’s leadership left an indelible mark on those who worked alongside him. His mentorship, wisdom, and dedication shaped CFH and inspired his colleagues. CFH President & CEO George Nashak and Board Chair Surjit Chana reflect on his extraordinary impact: 

“Dan was not just a leader but a mentor—someone who offered wise counsel, saw challenges before they arose, and always put the organization first. His impact on CFH’s strength and effectiveness is immeasurable. I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Nancy, and his entire family. His leadership, kindness, and compassion will be profoundly missed.”

Surjit Chana, Board Chair:

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we express our deepest condolences to the family of Dan Baldwin upon his passing. Recently, we had the privilege of designating him as the first Chair Emeritus of CFH in recognition of his twelve years of distinguished service. 

“Dan was a beacon of wisdom and integrity. His mentorship shaped my own leadership, and his unwavering dedication to CFH’s mission was unparalleled. He will forever be remembered for his lasting influence, tireless advocacy, and exceptional service to those experiencing homelessness.”

Michael Ziegler, General Counsel:

“The passing of Dan Baldwin is an immeasurable loss to his family as well as for Care For the Homeless, as he was an exemplary leader and unwavering advocate for the organization’s mission and services. Throughout his tenure as director, and especially during his service as Chair, I was fortunate to witness Dan’s commitment to ensuring that CFH was in the best position possible to serve its mission  He did this through a substantial commitment of time and energy, the application of his wit, and his leadership talent.  

“Moreover, shortly after assuming the role of Chair, Dan was placed in the unexpected position of leading a two-pronged effort regarding the senior management leadership of CFH. The unplanned departure of our long-time Executive Director required him to lead an effort to identify an interim ED who, on a temporary basis, could lead the management team while the recruitment of a permanent ED took place. He led both those efforts successfully. With regard to the latter effort, Dan formed a diverse committee to interview applicants and led that committee in the same manner as he led the Board: all committee members were given the opportunity to actively participate. Through his leadership, the effort concluded with the hiring of the current President & CEO, who has led a management team for the past five years through a period of significant growth and increased stability.”

Delise DuPont Blenman, Board Member:

“Dan and I met as Board Directors at CFH in 2015, worked together through challenging periods at the nonprofit, developed a mentoring relationship—and eventually became friends. I was incredibly fortunate to learn leadership lessons from Dan that helped me in the workplace and in every sphere of my life. In addition, he greatly valued my perspective, continuously seeking my input on issues. Dan selflessly served in innumerable ways at CFH becoming its first Chair Emeritus; CFH is a much better organization today because of Dan’s years of exemplary service.  I’m proud to say that I’m a better leader for having known him.”

Honoring Dan’s Legacy 

In honor of Dan’s life and service, his family has requested that donations be made to the organizations closest to his heart: 

• Care For the Homeless – Supporting its mission to provide healthcare, shelter, and advocacy for people experiencing homelessness. 

• The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation – Advancing research and support for those affected by pulmonary fibrosis. 

• The NYU Langone Transplant Institute – Committed to groundbreaking transplant research and patient care. 

Dan’s leadership, generosity, and compassion will continue to inspire us. His legacy lives on in the work we do every day to serve our most vulnerable neighbors.