While Andy Thorp has only been Crown Center’s Executive Director since December 2023, he has called St. Louis home for the past 27 years. Before his new role at Crown Center, Andy served as Senior Director of Student Engagement at Washington University and brings his extensive experience in nonprofit leadership to Crown Center. 
 
A thriving senior living community, Crown Center provides services and resources that enhance the quality of life and independence of residents who call Crown Center home. Federation’s Executive Director of Community Impact, Scott Berzon, recently sat down with Andy Thorp to learn more about his work in the community and beyond:

Q: What is unique about the population of residents you serve at Crown Center?

A: At Crown Center, our resident population is wonderfully diverse. While we serve a significant number of St. Louis natives in our Jewish community, we also have many Russian and Mandarin-speaking residents. To ensure effective communication and support, we employ interpreters who help bridge language barriers and make residents aware of the various programs and services available to them. This rich diversity greatly enhances the overall experience at Crown Center.

Q: Can you say a bit about a current challenge to which you are devoting time in your first months on the job?

A: In my initial months on the job, I have been deeply immersed in understanding the complexities of federal and state compliance related to affordable housing. Navigating this intricate landscape has been a significant learning curve. Thankfully, I can lean on the expertise of board members and staff who have a deep understanding of these compliance issues.

Q: What are some of your favorite spots to visit in St. Louis in the summertime?

A: My wife and I have lived and raised our three children in the Tower Grove East neighborhood in St. Louis for 25 years. I have a special fondness for beautiful Tower Grove Park, which is just a block away. On Saturdays, you can find us at the Farmers Market and yoga at the local park.

This was taken directly from The Jewish Federation Pulse Newsletter June 2024.