PUTNAM — Putnam’s loss will be Providence’s gain.
The Hale YMCA Youth and Family Center’s executive director, Amanda Kelly, was named as the new chief operating officer of the Great Providence YMCA.
Kelly has been an always-smiling leader in the greater Putnam area, partnering with many local organizations to support those living in northeastern Connecticut.
She has been with the Hale Y for nine years. She was the Hale Y’s first executive director when it opened in December 2015.
Among her many accomplishments, with her team at the Hale Y, was growing membership to about 7,500 members, opening Camp Cutler which serves 75 to 100 campers per week and almost 400 individual children. She said she is proud of the countless community events and programs throughout the nine years the Hale Y has been open.
Kelly’s last day at the Hale YMCA is Feb. 13 and she will start her new job Feb. 24.
“Amanda’s passion for community-building and her proven track record of operational excellence make her the ideal choice to guide our branches and teams,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of the Greater Providence YMCA. “Her leadership and 20-plus years of experience with the YMCA family will undoubtedly elevate our efforts to deliver impactful programs and services to the communities we serve.”
Santilli said Kelly, during her tenure at the Hale Y, successfully opened a new facility, grew annual revenue to $2.8 million, and implemented innovative strategies to expand membership and donor engagement. Her career also includes key roles in program development, staff leadership, and community partnerships, making her uniquely equipped to lead GPYMCA operations.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Greater Providence YMCA as Chief Operating Officer,” said Kelly. “I began my Y career many years ago at the Kent County YMCA and this role feels like a homecoming. I am looking forward to working alongside such a passionate team to drive growth, foster inclusivity, and strengthen the programs and services that make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many in the communities we serve.”
“At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, our goal is to inspire and develop leaders who make a lasting impact within the Y and the communities we serve. Amanda Kelly’s leadership and community impact exemplifies that vision,” said Harold Sparrow, CEO, YMCA of Greater Hartford. “Amanda has been a pillar of the Hale YMCA and the Putnam community, leading with passion and dedication since opening its doors. We are incredibly proud of Amanda and know she will continue to do great things in her new role as COO at the Greater Providence YMCA. We wish her all the best in this exciting next chapter!”
As COO, Kelly will focus on ensuring operational excellence across GPYMCA branches, developing strategies for membership growth and retention, expanding program offerings, and fostering community partnerships. She will also play a critical role in mentoring branch leadership teams and enhancing overall organizational performance to meet the evolving needs of the community.
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