SEATTLE, Wash., July 3, 2007 -- Open Arms Perinatal Services (openarmsps.org) today announced that after a year and a half of leading the organization, Lisa Chin will step down from her current role as part-time Executive Director. During her tenure, Chin led Open Arms through a period of intense growth and increased commitment to birthing women throughout the Puget Sound area.

In announcing her resignation, Chin said "It is with great regret that I resign, but Open Arms clearly needs a full-time executive director to lead the organization in this time of growth, and my current responsibilities outside the organization don't allow me to expand my commitment at this time. Open Arms is at an exciting point in its history, and I am happy that I can continue my involvement at a level that is good for both the organization and me."

During Chin's tenure, Open Arms has grown substantially. Open Arms now serves hundreds of women a year, providing doula support for low-income women and scholarships for training new doulas, many of whom will later serve within their communities. Through increased awareness and funding, Open Arms has brought commitment to birthing women to a new level.

Open Arms is currently conducting a search for a new full-time Executive Director to lead the organization through this period of intense growth. Chin will remain in her position until a full-time Executive Director is in place and will work closely with the new director for a seamless leadership transition. She will also still be engaged on the fundraising committee of the board, as well as remaining active in her advocacy efforts on behalf on expectant mothers and their families.

"Lisa has contributed in so many ways that have allowed this organization to prosper", said Sara Thompson, chair of the Board of Directors. "This is an immediate loss for Open Arms, but we're excited that she will remain to assist with the transition and are confident that great leadership will be in place to start a new chapter for Open Arms. The board wishes to extend its sincere thanks to Lisa Chin, whose dynamic leadership has brought the organization to a new level and whose hard work will benefit the organization and the families and children it serves for years to come."

Open Arms, headquartered in Seattle, WA, is a community nonprofit agency committed to providing services to childbearing women since 1997. Our mission is to provide services that support, educate, respect, honor and empower women in need and their families throughout the childbearing year. The Executive Director position for Open Arms will be posted July 10th.

For more information contact Sara Thompson.