NEWBURYPORT — After years staff turnover and ongoing change, the YWCA hopes it has taken a big step toward stability with the hire of a new leader.
Margo Casey of Haverhill will take over the job of executive director late next month, the latest step in a social services career spanning more than 25 years. Casey is currently president of North Shore United Way in Beverly.
"I feel very lucky to have been chosen," Casey said. "A lot of my experiences will be combined in this role; that's a great thing to have happen in a career."
Casey will take over for current interim director Cathy Fellenz, who has been with the agency since July.
The search for a new director has taken several months to complete, as President Nancy Peace solicited the help of an outside hiring agency to help make the hiring process and transition a smooth one.
"We are sure we have the perfect candidate, as there was a very good search process which led to hiring Margo," Peace said. "We had a pool of around 40 applicants and then got it down to six before three semifinalists, and then Margo. So she was part of a large process. It means it was a well vetted decision."
The YWCA is one of the city's largest social services organizations, running programs relating to health and wellness, financial literacy, affordable housing and more, while also overseeing a women's shelter.
But as it has undergone a major renovation that includes a new pool, it has also seen its share of turnover in leadership.
In 2006, longtime director Arlene Santa Fe stepped down before Kim Harty took over the reins. Harty, however, left less than a year later. Since Harty's departure, the position has been empty except for interim director Fellenz.
"We have had such turnover over the last eight years," Peace said. "We thought this time we would use a professional service for the sake of the YW and the community to ensure the process led to the right decision."
For Casey, the new job will provide the chance to use her background to further expand the YWCA's affordable-housing program and work to increase fundraising and programs.
"I will be working to find out what is needed in the community and how to effectively fund the programs," Casey said.
Prior to serving as president, Casey ran the Hawk Program (Help for Abused Women and Kids) based in Salem and before that, a community health center in Dorchester.
"My different experiences will help in working with the community," Casey said.
As Casey takes over, she hopes to work with the community to make sure the services offered by the Y are aligned with what the community needs. She hopes to expand affordable housing and create stronger relationships between Anna Jaques Hospital and the Y.
"It's really exciting with my public health background to be working and getting as many people in the community to use the YWCA as possible," Casey said, noting her commitment to encouraging more seniors and families to use the Y. "I'm very excited. This is a great opportunity to work for a wonderful organization."
