ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Sources have told Eyewitness News that local domestic violence advocate Carol Wick is no longer in her position as CEO of Harbor House of Central Florida.
The center's board had been meeting all day and communicated with Wick by phone. Sources said she had expected to be voted out of office on Thursday.
Harbor House is the leading agency for domestic violence awareness and advocacy in central Florida. Wick has been a longtime advocate for raising awareness about the domestic violence and deaths in central Florida.
Wick expanded the shelter and worked with law enforcement to shape the way officers handle domestic abuse calls.
Wick said in an email to her staff that her "dedication to you and survivors will remain" and "all you do saves lives and makes a difference."
The board said an interim CEO will be named as they conduct a nationwide search for a new CEO.
Wick said in a statement late Thursday afternoon.
"After 10 years as Chief Executive Officer of Harbor House, I have nothing but the highest regard for the staff, the clients, and the crucial mission of that astounding, life-saving organization.
For me, this work has been so much more than just a job; it has been a calling. I am passionate about the work we've done, and have been tremendously honored to guide an organization whose sole purpose is to help the innocent survivors of domestic violence.
Over the past decade, careful attention to detail has resulted in unprecedented growth in volunteer and funding support, and an innovative approach to the challenges inherent in domestic violence have enable us to have a profound impact on our immediate community and beyond.
While it was not my decision to leave, I am particularly proud of where the organization stands.
I want to express my unyielding gratitude to the countless individuals and organizations in the community who have given my professional life its purpose and its joy.
Know that I am excited about the projects that I am working on and continuing to work for survivors.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding."