Parker has 25 years of experience leading homeless ministries, most recently as executive director of the Rescue Mission Alliance of Syracuse, N.Y., where he is credited with successfully developing and executing the long-term strategy, organizational growth and sustainability of the mission. Prior to that, Parker served as senior vice president of Metropolitan Ministries in Florida.

"It was crucial that we identified the candidate who not only had the experience to continue to grow and improve upon the effective programs we provide, but also to find someone who fit us culturally. Chasz brings the level of leadership and service-minded spirit required for meeting the needs of hurting people in search of hope and healing," said David Thompson, chairman of the Water Street Ministries board of directors.

Parker replaces Jere Shertzer, who resigned from Water Street Ministries in July 2012. Water Street Ministries worked with North Group Consultants Inc. on the search.

Started in 1905, the nonprofit providing rescue and renewal for homeless men, women and children and also addresses other aspects of poverty by educating young children, equipping teens and providing access to health care for the working poor.