People on the Move: YMCA Names Amanda Kelly COO

People on the Move: YMCA Names Amanda Kelly COO

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Greater Providence YMCA Names Amanda Kelly as New Chief Operating Officer

The Greater Providence YMCA (GPYMCA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Amanda Kelly as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Kelly, a dedicated leader with over two decades of experience in the YMCA network and nonprofit sector, will oversee branch operations, program development, and membership strategies to further the GPYMCA's mission of strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. She will officially step into her role on February 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, Chief Executive Officer 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.”

Kelly has an extensive history of leadership within the YMCA, most recently serving as Executive Director of the Hale YMCA Youth and Family Center in Putnam, CT. During her tenure, she 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.”

Kelly’s current and former Y colleagues attest without reservation to her commitment to the organization’s mission of creating a welcoming environment and consistently exemplifying the vision that makes Ys across the country beacons of community.

"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.

For more information about the Greater Providence YMCA and its leadership team, visit https://ymcagreaterprovidence.org/about/board-of-directors/.