Convocation: Craig Rennebohm '67

Craig Rennebohm walks a regular route through downtown Seattle, seeking out those who are most vulnerable; those whose confusion or fear makes it hard to seek or accept assistance; those whose illness makes them feel isolated, unworthy, and hopeless. Rennebohm is there for the person who is seriously disturbed and uncertain about where or how to find aid. Working tenderly, he builds trust, helps find shelter and care, and continues to walk alongside as each person makes their way toward a new and stable life. In 1987, Rennebohm founded the Mental Health Chaplaincy in Seattle which, under his leadership, has grown to serve families, create mental health ministries in local congregations, and advocate for an effective and readily accessible community mental health system. His pioneering work with the homeless mentally ill community is known around the U.S. and overseas. The title of his presentation was "Recovering Human Neighborhood: From the Street to Systemic Change."