FARMINGTON — Darryl Wood, residential services director for LEAP, Inc., is the new executive director of the organization he has served for 14 years.

He replaces the Rev. Rick Dorian, who resigned in April to become a minister.

Life Enrichment Advancing People provides housing and staffing support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Western Maine. With the support of volunteers, it offers monthly social activities, including dances and participation in community events.

LEAP Board President Sherry Walrath said, “In searching for a new executive director the board reviewed 14 applicants selected from a larger pool of interested persons. On Saturday, June 18, the board voted unanimously to appoint Darryl Wood as the new executive director for LEAP. We are confident that he has the leadership qualities and experience needed to guide the agency through the time ahead.”

“I am very pleased and honored to become the next executive director at LEAP, Inc.,” Wood said.  “I am fortunate to have inherited a very strong team of employees who are dedicated to working together to support our mission. I would like to thank all the staff and board members who supported me through this process, and my family as well, without whom I could not give what I do to the organization.  As executive director, I hope to continue the success and growth of the organization while engaging community partners and families in more education and advocacy for needs of people with disabilities.”

Wood’s career at LEAP began in 1997. He has been residential services director since 2008. His duties included supervision of the administrative team and responsibility for the recruitment, retention and training of direct service professionals.

He is a board member of the United Way of the Tri-Valley, a member of state and national organizations whose focus is developmental disabilities and is a former member of the New Sharon Planning Board. He has lived in Western Maine for the past 19 years.