2024 Men of the Year: Wes Buchholz

Wes Buchholz says he learned lessons on diplomacy early, due largely to living with three sisters in a single-parent household.

“Resources were very limited, and I learned the valuable skill of placing one’s own needs after the needs of others and the dividends that kindness and compassion pay,” he says. “My call to work in social services comes more from an ‘I’ve walked in these shoes’ place than one of mere empathy. It gives me a certain edge – as well as a predisposition to effectively meet families where they are – as well as train volunteers to serve them well.”

Buchholz, who directed the Crosslines Resource Center since 2021, became the vice president of programs for the Council of Churches in March, and contributed to the design and funding of a new nearly 60,000 square-foot headquarters that consolidates all Council of Churches programs.

“Wes has changed the trajectory of thousands of lives, and as a leader has inspired true greatness in those he stewards,” says Jaimie Trussell, CEO of Council of Churches. “Wes’ leadership through a very challenging season – featuring a capital campaign, an extensive building renovation and the dismantling and reestablishment of organizational priorities – has been critical to our success.”

Recently, Buchholz helped coordinate the planning process for CCO’s next strategic plan, aligning the visions of the CEO, board of directors, and program teams.

“For the first time in our five-decade service history, we now have a comprehensive statement outlining our mission, vision, values and priorities, which will be used to guide our efforts and better adapt the organization’s mission to address the evolving needs of the community.” he says.

Buchholz says he prioritizes professional development at the nonprofit, conducting and facilitating training sessions, providing an organizational Audible account and personally offering staff a Working Genius assessment to learn about individual working styles. Trussell says due to budget constraints, Buchholz covered the bulk of the costs on behalf of the team.

“I am so grateful for his willingness to put his money where his mouth is, because he was right, and the results continue to make us a stronger and wiser organization,” she says.

Outside of work, Buchholz serves on the county’s Community Organizations Active in Disaster and Have Faith committees, where he collaborates with local nonprofits and civic organizations on projects aimed at addressing community needs beyond food insecurity.

In addition to these roles, Buchholz serves on the Springfield Public Schools Ambassador’s Program as well as the steering committee for the district’s annual Back to School bash.