Copyright Santa Rosa Press Democrat
A few months after Elece Hempel’s departure from Petaluma People Services Center, the essential local nonprofit has found a new executive director to replace her. Jenifer Weiss, described as “a seasoned nonprofit executive with a track record of revitalizing organizations and mobilizing communities,” has taken over the leadership role at PPSC, the organization announced. Weiss takes the helm of an organization providing nearly 100 human services programs to residents of Petaluma and beyond, helping youths, seniors, the hungry, those needing mental health services and more. Her new job began on Oct. 27. “I’m deeply honored to join Petaluma People Services Center and build upon its remarkable legacy of serving this community with integrity and compassion,” Weiss said in a statement sent out Wednesday. “PPSC’s mission — to support the whole person at every stage of life — aligns completely with my values.” Weiss brings more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience to her new role, and has led initiatives at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the National Brain Tumor Society and most recently was executive director of Susan G. Komen, an organization working to end breast cancer. As executive director, she “will lead PPSC into its next phase of growth and innovation, strengthening programs that serve individuals and families throughout southern Sonoma County,” the nonprofit’s board stated. “My goal,” Weiss said in her statement, “is to listen first, partner widely, and work hand-in-hand with staff, volunteers and community leaders to ensure PPSC continues to thrive as a cornerstone of care and connection in Petaluma and beyond.” Hempel, who announced her departure in June, ran PPSC for 22 years, growing it from an obscure nonprofit to the city’s most indispensable human services provider. Megan Kelly, the organization’s director of people operations, served as interim executive director until a new leader could be found.
