Iris S. Thurman took over as CEO of ECHO on Wednesday, July 29, stepping into leadership of the nonprofit that distributes emergency food, clothing, and housing assistance to Apollo Beach and Ruskin residents through its Riverview Resource Center.

Thurman succeeds Eleanor Saunders, who left ECHO to lead Rotary's Camp Florida in Brandon, as we reported July 30. The appointment was announced by ECHO as the organization closes its strongest year on record.

ECHO's annual impact report shows it served 36,194 neighbors in fiscal year 2025–26, up from roughly 30,000 the prior year. On July 26, ECHO Development Manager Steven McKinnon told the Observer News the organization was "trending right now to serve 34,000 neighbors this year." The final tally exceeded even that projection.

During the fiscal year ending June 30, ECHO's 35 paid staff and 300 volunteers provided 389,928 meals, helped 495 neighbors secure stable housing, and placed 337 people into new jobs through its Back2Work Program.

Thurman, a Miami native who relocated to Tampa at age 10, founded Urlinked Charities Inc. and its I AM ME Movement, focused on youth empowerment and emotional wellness. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in business management and an MBA in health care management from the University of Phoenix.

"ECHO's mission has always been about people," Thurman said in a statement announcing her appointment. "Together with our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors and community partners, we will continue empowering neighbors in crisis by providing hope, resources and pathways to long-term stability."

The new CEO said she plans to expand community partnerships and strengthen existing programs. ECHO, founded in 1987, operates resource centers in Brandon and Riverview and a location in Thonotosassa. Its Riverview center at 10509 Riverview Drive serves residents in zip codes covering Apollo Beach, Ruskin, Sun City Center, and Gibsonton.

The organization is funded 45% by community donors, 38% by ECHO Thrift Sales, 13% by foundation grants, and 4% by government support.

Residents who need food, clothing, or emergency assistance can visit the ECHO Riverview Resource Center at 10509 Riverview Drive or call 813-540-9880. More information is available at echofl.org.