04/17/2026
Leading with Purpose: Dave Drezner and The Freedom Center Today
As part of our 25th anniversary celebration, we are proud to highlight the leadership of The Freedom Center’s Executive Director, Dave Drezner. Since joining the organization in February 2019, Dave has brought decades of experience in human services, along with a deeply personal understanding of the challenges many individuals with disabilities face.
Born and raised in Southern California, Dave’s journey has taken him across the country—from Pennsylvania, where he helped develop programs to support individuals transitioning from institutional settings into community living, to Maryland, where he now leads The Freedom Center. His professional background spans substance use counseling, behavioral health, housing coordination, and statewide systems change, including helping to implement Pennsylvania’s Aging and Disability Resource Center program.
Dave’s leadership is also shaped by lived experience. As a person with non-visible disabilities, including mental and behavioral health challenges and chronic health conditions, he brings authenticity, empathy, and perspective to his work. His long-term recovery—maintaining sobriety since 1987—speaks to his resilience and commitment, qualities that carry through in his leadership style and dedication to others.
Under Dave’s leadership, The Freedom Center has continued to grow as a hub for community, connection, and support. In 2022, the organization moved to its current location, creating a more welcoming and accessible space where individuals of all ages and disabilities can feel supported. Today, the Center continues to expand its impact—helping people find and maintain safe, affordable, accessible housing; access assistive technology and home modifications; pursue meaningful employment; and connect to the wide range of supports needed to live independently and thrive.
Dave’s leadership is felt not only in the organization’s work, but in its culture. As Debbie Walkin, an IL-Specialist with The Freedom Center, shared, “Dave is an employee’s ideal Director. He is empathetic and takes a holistic approach, always considering the full picture.” Chuck Kinney, Disability Advocate and Assistive Technology Specialist, added, “He advocates for what is right—even when it’s not easy—and that makes him someone you can truly trust.”
As we celebrate 25 years of independence, advocacy, and community impact, we are grateful for Dave’s steady leadership and vision for the future. His commitment to empowering individuals and dismantling barriers continues to guide The Freedom Center’s work.
⭐️ A 25th Anniversary Celebration is currently being planned for October 2026—stay tuned for more details as we come together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to what’s next!
IMAGE: Smiling man wearing sunglasses outdoors, featured alongside text about “Leading with Purpose: Dave Drezner and The Freedom Center Today” and The Freedom Center 25th anniversary logo.
