Dear Friends of Simply Living,
I’m writing today to share some personal news: I will be stepping down as Executive Director on
December 14th.
This was not an easy decision. Simply Living has been a meaningful part of my life for many
years — especially over the past 3 1/2 years as a Board Member and Executive Director. This community has shaped me in more ways than I can express, and I will always be grateful for the chance to lead an organization so deeply aligned with my values.
I am transitioning into a new remote role that allows me to better support my family’s needs. It
provides an opportunity for essential care for one of my children who has special needs and more
time with my parents. At the same time, this change allows Simply Living to redirect precious
resources back into the sustainable programs our community needs. Given the economic pressures facing so many nonprofits right now, I believe this is the right step for both my family and the organization.
A Time of Challenge and Possibility
We are operating in an unprecedented moment for small nonprofits. Many traditional funding
sources have either been reduced or eliminated, and beloved programs across Central Ohio are at
risk of discontinuation or have already closed.
And yet, Simply Living’s mission has never been more relevant.
We have an opportunity – and an obligation – to help shape a more sustainable, locally-based future. From our bioregionalism events and sustainable tours to partnerships that could strengthen the “green-collar” workforce, Simply Living’s potential is enormous. For example, we have been exploring a partnership to offer a nationally recognized environmental certification that could open doors for Central Ohioans seeking apprenticeships and green career pathways. This is exactly the kind of work our community is eager for—but
only if we have the support to make it happen.
This is a moment for members and supporters to lead.
Simply Living has always been a member-led organization. And right now, during this period of
transition, the need for that leadership is greater than ever. Here are meaningful ways you can help:
- Bid on 60 items within our Simply Giving Online Auction this holiday season. Your purchases
directly fund our education and community programs. Registration and bidding are open until December 12th! - Donate to our Giving Tuesday Campaign. Even small gifts make a very real difference.
- Renew your Sustaining Membership in January 2026.
- Become a Business Sponsor for our 2026 Programs. Stay tuned for the new sponsorship details!
- Contribute your expertise, your time, or skills.
- Attend our Annual Meeting on Thursday evening, December 18th from 5:00-7:00 pm at Urban Farm Church (3901 Maize Road Columbus, OH 43224). Our Annual Meeting is a wonderful opportunity to shape the future of Simply Living. Our Simply Living Members are invited to vote on important matters, such as Board Members and Officers.
You don’t need to make long-term commitments or join the Board (although we do need more board members!). You can:
- table at a festival
- help with membership or sponsorship outreach
- organize or host a fundraising event
- teach a class or workshop
- lend professional expertise in any number of areas
- help us secure funding for major initiatives like the green-collar workforce certification
program
Every hour offered and every dollar contributed helps Simply Living continue the work we all
believe in. Over the past year as Executive Director, one of my greatest joys has been reconnecting and rebuilding the relationships that make Simply Living such a special community. I know those relationships will continue to strengthen in 2026 with your involvement.
Thank you for your support, your trust, and the myriad ways you have welcomed me into this
community over the years. I will continue cheering for Simply Living—as a member, as a
neighbor, and as someone who deeply believes in our mission.
With Gratitude,
Angie Scheu
