After nearly two decades at the helm of Cedar Rapids nonprofit Matthew 25, Executive Director Clint Twedt-Ball has announced he will step down from his role on July 15.
Mr. Twedt-Ball co-founded Matthew 25 in 2006 with his wife, Courtney, and has helped guide its growth from a grassroots effort to a community development leader in Cedar Rapids. In a letter to supporters, he shared that the time felt right to take the next step in his service journey.
“It is with a mixture of joy and sadness that I share that July 15 will be my last day as executive director,” Mr. Twedt-Ball wrote. “When Courtney and I started this organization, we never could have imagined the amazing things that have happened.”
Under Mr. Twedt-Ball’s leadership, Matthew 25 launched a range of innovative projects, including a tool library, the Urban Farm, Groundswell Café and the Cultivate Hope Corner Store. The group has restored more than 1,000 homes, constructed net-zero housing, and remained active during crises like the 2008 flood, COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 derecho.
“Many, sometimes including myself, figured I would be working at Matthew 25 until I retired,” Mr. Twedt-Ball wrote. “But, as scripture says, for everything there is a season, and recently I have felt a calling to explore other avenues of impact.”
The statement did not offer specifics as to Mr. Twedt-Ball’s future endeavors.
The Matthew 25 board of directors expressed full support for Mr. Twedt-Ball’s decision and gratitude for his impact, noting that the organization has grown from two staff members to 37 since its founding.
“Clint’s passion for empowering others through Matthew 25 programs has truly been transformative — especially in the Time Check neighborhood,” said Matthew 25 board president Ryan Anderson. “While we will miss his leadership, we are confident that Matthew 25 will continue to grow strong neighbourhoods across Cedar Rapids.”
The board confirmed that Mr. Twedt-Ball’s departure is not related to any organizational concerns, and that the transition is amicable. A search for the next executive director will begin soon, with an interim leadership plan expected to be announced shortly.
In the meantime, the organization says its mission and programming will continue without interruption.
“Our foundation is strong, our staff is dedicated, and our community support is broad,” Mr. Anderson said.
An open house to celebrate Mr. Twedt-Ball’s service and accomplishments with Matthew 25 will be held Wednesday, July 9 from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Groundswell Event Space, 201 Third Ave. SW. Remarks will be delivered at 5:15 p.m.
According to Matthew 25, the organization’s mission is to improve the health of people and neighborhoods by investing in safe affordable housing, healthy food, educational opportunities, and community building. We envision a thriving, connected community with a sharing economy, where people are valued, talents are multiplied, and neighbors live healthy, nourished lives full of opportunity.”
