Dana Totman, former CEO of Avesta Housing. has accepted the Interim Executive Director role for Portland Trails according to a press release issued this afternoon.

As the CEO of Avesta Housing for 22 years, Totman led the organization through major growth.  The affordacble homes in the portfolio increased from 700 to 3,200 and the assets grew from $60 million to $350 million.  A tireless advocate for affordable housing he was the founder of the Maine Affordabcle Housing Coalition, created Maine’s first Housing First communities for homeless individuals and steadily helped shape affordacble housing legislation and funding mechanisms.  Prior to joining Avesta, Totman served the Deputy Director of the Maine State Housing Authority.  He is an avid hiker and was the first person from Maine to solo hike the entire Appalachian Trail.

“With a passion for both nonprofits and walking trails, I feel truly privileged to be able to join the Portland Trails organization.  Since the beginning of the pandemic, the value and need for accessible outdodor recreation has never been higher,” said Totman.  “I look forward to helping Portland Trails continue their tremendous service to area residents.” totman will be working on a part-time basis.

The Board of Trustees has begun a search process for the new Executdive Director.