YWCA O.C. Celebrates Women’s History Month

NEWBURGH – YWCA Orange County has much to celebrate for Women’s History Month this March, as new executive leadership is announced at the largest and oldest women’s membership organization in Orange County. Melinda Pokela has been appointed Executive Director and will succeed Christine Sadowski, who was with YWCA for the past 20 years. Ms. Pokela was selected by the agency’s Board of Directors following a rigorous and highly competitive search process.

“After reviewing more than 60 resumes and conducting a dozen interviews, it was very clear to the search committee that Melinda had the combination of expertise and skills, in both gender equity and racial justice, to make her the perfect choice,” said Carol Smith, YWCA Board President. “We are confident that under Melinda’s leadership YWCA will continue to thrive and have an even greater impact on the women and their families we serve throughout Orange County.”

Ms. Pokela comes to YWCA after dedicating the past decade to the world of public health where she developed her skills in social justice programming and grant writing. Born and raised in Orange County, Melinda is a staunch advocate for racial justice and gender equity.
“The mission of YWCA Orange County is near and dear to my heart,” said Melinda. “I am committed to the Orange County community and care deeply for the rights and empowerment of all who live here. I have great passion for affecting positive change and am honored to be able to put that fervor to work on behalf of YWCA and the people of Orange County,” added Melinda.

Melinda’s past efforts have helped Orange County women obtain services for substance use, housing, mental health, and legal services. She served as a Hudson Valley Regional Trainer on a variety of issues including HIV, Hepatitis C, Behavior Change, Cultural Competency, Client Centered Approaches, and Sociological Theories and educated more than 1,000 service providers across nine counties.

Melinda has participated in a variety of social movements surrounding the elimination of racism, the empowerment of women, immigration rights, and other injustices. She actively supports Black Lives Matter, Showing Up for Racial Justice, and considers herself to be a feminist. She has volunteered for “Girls Rock” whose mission teaches young girls how to create and play rock and roll music, and served as a peer educator and clinic escort for Planned Parenthood.

Melinda earned a BA from C.W. Post of Long Island University in Sociology. Prior to joining YWCA, she served as The PRO Supervisor for Hudson Valley Community Services and CDC Supervisor for the Long Island Association for AIDS Care.

YWCA is delighted to be introducing Melinda to the Orange County community through a variety of meetings and events throughout Women’s History Month. She is scheduled to participate in, or present at meetings involving County leadership, business and educational forums, as well as grassroots community gatherings. Anyone wishing to meet Ms. Pokela and/or speak about the future of YWCA Orange County, please visit www.ywca-orangecty.org or call 845. 561. 8050.