Women’s Center-Youth & Family Services has announced the appointment of Jennifer Jones as their new CEO. Jennifer has led the organization as Interim CEO since October 3, 2016, succeeding Joelle Gomez, who had stepped down to assume the role of CEO at Children’s Home of Stockton. Jones will transition to the permanent role immediately.
Jones has been part of the WCYFS team for over 10 years, starting out as the Youth Services Program Manager at Family & Youth Services of San Joaquin County prior to the 2012 merger with Women’s Center of San Joaquin. Jennifer was subsequently promoted to Shelter Director, with direct oversite and management of WCYFS’ two undisclosed shelters for battered women and their children. Just one year later, Jennifer was promoted to WCYFS’ first Director of Operations, joining the Administrative Team and overseeing the entire organization’s programming and sites. Jennifer has been noted for her outstanding professionalism, positive attitude, perseverance and passion. Her extensive experience working with runaway/homeless youth, and with survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking will serve her well as the new CEO.
“I am honored to have been chosen to assume the role of CEO of Women’s Center-Youth & Family Services. Just as much as WCYFS has impacted the lives of the individuals we serve, this work has impacted my life as well. The strength and resilience I have witnessed in those who have been beaten down but refuse to give up, their eternal hope; that is why I am so honored to be in a position to effect change, to be a positive force in the movement to end violence and youth homelessness,” said Jones.
On a national level, Jennifer has had the opportunity to travel to Washington DC to meet with government representatives and dignitaries concerning issues related to domestic violence, sexual assault and runaway/homeless youth and is connected to national organizations including RAINN, National Network for Youth and National Safe Place. On a state level, Mrs. Jones is an active member of multiple coalitions including California Partnership to End Domestic Violence, California Coalition Against Sexual Assault and National Network for Youth. Locally, Mrs. Jones is an active participant of San Joaquin County’s FEMA Board, Continuum of Care, Domestic Violence Task Force and Human Trafficking Task Force.
“We are confident that Jennifer Jones is ready to take the reins and lead this organization to even greater heights,” said Jackie Sahargun, Board President.
For 41 years, Women’s Center-YFS has served San Joaquin County’s most vulnerable populations. The agency serves thousands of individuals annually, including 600-700 women, men, children and youths who stay in its shelters each year. WCYFS operates four offices, two shelters for homeless and runaway youths, and two undisclosed emergency shelters for victims of domestic violence and their children. The agency’s comprehensive services for women, children, youth and men are critical in helping build healthier families and a safer community. WCYFS gives homeless youth and victims of abuse a voice, a safe haven, and a place to heal.
WCYFS board of directors are planning a welcome reception to introduce Jennifer Jones to the community at large. Details about the reception will be announced at a later time.