BEVERLY — The North Shore YMCA has hired the newly created position of executive director of mental wellness and named a new vice president of philanthropy.
Ranjeev Benjamin, a former chemical engineer, combats mental health challenges and addresses the growing need to support mental wellness programs, training and services across seven YMCAs on the North Shore, including Cape Ann He will take on the role of mental wellness with an emphasis on mental wellness. and Ipswich YMCAS.
As Vice President of Charitable Giving, Rebecca Imperiali leads the Y by connecting members of the 25 communities it serves to the Y’s mission and commitment to providing access to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Lead a team that strategically expands philanthropy. .
Benjamin has over 15 years of experience in community mental health and wellness as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. Prior to joining the Y, he served as director of the Riverside Community Care, Behavioral Health Outpatient Center program in Somerville. He holds a master’s degree from Boston University and is a licensed independent clinical social worker.
He will lead North Shore’s mental health journey, the YMCA of ONEDOOR, and its latest efforts to meet the evolving needs of the entire member community. Benjamin will manage the development of programs and services as the Y continues to integrate mental wellness into its organizational structure and enhance mental health supports for staff, members, program participants, and the community.
ONEDOOR includes a consultative partnership with McLean Hospital at Belmont, a leader in psychiatric treatment, research and education and the largest psychiatric teaching hospital at Harvard Medical School. Mr. Benjamin will oversee this partnership.
We will also contribute to the expansion of youth mental health first aid certifications for staff who work with children and young people. Youth Mental Health First Aid equips Y staff who work with children and youth with tools to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use problems, and how best to connect families with appropriate community resources. Offers.
Most of Imperiali’s career has been at Beth Israel Lahey Health, where he first served as director of major gifts and was later promoted to vice president of philanthropy. She has extensive experience and, as a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), meets the highest standards of ethical best practice fundraising and philanthropic initiatives.
Imperiali will focus on deepening connections with the Y’s vital services and donors who can support those needs. Through sharing her story and exploring her interests, she will strive to further her generosity to further the mission of her Y. She has over 15 years of experience as a leader in the nonprofit financial development field and has a proven track record of building new donor relationships and growing strong philanthropic programs.
“We are excited to have these two incredibly talented and passionate leaders join our team,” said Chris Lobasco, president and CEO. “I am confident that Rebecca will bring a tremendous amount of experience, knowledge and a fresh perspective to our company.” He will help advance our Y mission in 2024 and beyond. ”
