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Inset: Erin Forbes, incoming CEO for the Red Deer Homeless Foundation, and outgoing executive director at Dress for Success Central Alberta. (Image Credit: Inset: Supplied; Background: rdnewsNOW file photo)
erin forbes replaces darcy mykytyshyn

Change in leadership at Red Deer Homeless Foundation

Oct 27, 2026 | 8:45 PM

As the first phase of Project Nexus is on its way to completion, a new but familiar face is taking the helm of the Red Deer Homeless Foundation.

Erin Forbes, who has for several years been executive director at Dress for Success Central Alberta, will become the foundation’s CEO.

She is taking over from Darcy Mykytyshyn, who has been with the foundation from its inception.

Mykytyshyn’s final day as CEO is Nov. 23, while Forbes will remain ED at Dress for Success until Nov. 20; and that organization has also begun its search for a new leader.

“I’m excited to join the Red Deer Homeless Foundation at a time when we’re still building and shaping what this organization can become,” says Forbes.

“My focus will be on listening, learning, and activating strong relationships across the community. Together, we have an opportunity to create an organization that brings people together, drives lasting solutions, and is something our community is proud of.”

Foundation chairperson Matt Cassidy also thanked Mykytyshyn for his efforts.

“On behalf of the Board, I thank Darcy for his service to the foundation and the Red Deer community,” said Cassidy.

“As we prepare for this transition, our direction remains clear: advance Project Nexus and work alongside our community partners to turn that shared vision into action.” 

Mykytyshyn will remain involved throughout the transition.

It was earlier this October when rdnewsNOW spoke with Mykytyshyn at the launch event for a massive fundraiser the foundation is hosting in spring 2027, alongside Dress for Success and the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre.

He shared that, to date, the foundation’s biggest challenge has been keeping pace with its ambitious timelines.

He also said that the team at the foundation is working very hard to bring phase one of Project Nexus to completion, which is the shelter space.

You can hear more of what Mykytyshyn — as well as Forbes — had to say on this recent episode of The Everything Red Deer Podcast.

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Read our recent ‘More Than A Number’ series on homelessness in Red Deer

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