Emotions filled the room Wednesday night, when our Executive Director, Roger Palomino, announced his retirement effective December 31, 2009 before the Board of Commissioners.

“EOC has been around for 45 years and I’ve been around for 40 of them,” he reminisced. “The Agency has accomplished the unexpected and is on a strong path to growth and development,” he assured the board and staff present. “I will be available and am more than glad to be of assistance to the board and executive staff.”

Mr. Palomino began his involvement with EOC in 1969 when he became a member of our Board of Commissioners representing the Juvenile Court. He was appointed our Executive Director in January 1994 and has since spearheaded a number of programs designed to enhance the lives of struggling Fresno County residents.

Under his leadership and tireless efforts, our Agency developed and implemented numerous programs that have helped Fresno County’s low-income population achieve self-sufficiency. Programs founded by Mr. Palomino include the Valley Community Action Partnership, Rural Communities Collaborative of Fresno County, and the School of Unlimited Learning (SOUL), to name a few.

“I thank the board and staff for the opportunity you have given me,” said Palomino. “I couldn’t think of a better place to wrap up my career.”