Introducing Our New Executive Director: Mary-Kate O'Leary
On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are very excited to introduce our new Executive Director, Mary-Kate O’Leary. Ms. O’Leary comes to us with over 25 years of nonprofit experience including being a CEO at numerous children and youth focused organizations across the country before returning home to New England. Over the last two years, Mary-Kate was the Vice President of Philanthropy and Public Relations at Tides Family Services. She has also been a nonprofit consultant with an emphasis on strategic and organizational planning, professional development training and team building and fundraising.
“We are thrilled to have an Executive Director in place that has extensive experience with nonprofit business development and someone who truly understands the mission. The sky is the limit for A Wish Come True and our future is bright,” stated Lori Francisco, Board Chair.
Mary-Kate’s passion is to help children and families reach their dreams. She was attracted to the position of Executive Director of A Wish Come True for many reasons. First, she truly believes in the mission. In 1978, Mary-Kate lost her brother to a rare form of Leukemia and she understands the journey many of our families go through. Second, Mary-Kate has extensive background and understanding of successfully running and growing nonprofits. “This cause is near and dear to my heart and I look forward to working directly with the families who need us most. I also look forward to connecting community partners and donors to our mission. Unfortunately, I was one of those who did not get to experience “A Wish” and I can only hope that we can bring joy to not only the child but their loved ones too,” stated Mary-Kate O’Leary.
Mary-Kate lives in West Warwick, RI and in her free time she loves playing golf. She is a Board Member on the LPGA Amateur RI Chapter and she is a member at Ledgemont Country Club. She can be reached at marykate@awishcometrue.org