The YWCA Jamestown’s Board of Directors has hired Amanda Gesing as the organization’s new executive director.

“After a very thorough search the board is excited to welcome Amanda Gesing to lead the YWCA as we continue to strive to meet our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all,” said Allison Carrow, president of YWCA Jamestown Board of Directors. “Amanda’s steadfast leadership, commitment to program collaboration with other community agencies and organizations to support a common goal, and passion for our organization make this time at the YWCA an exciting one for us and the community we serve.”

Gesing has almost 20 years of experience in the human services field, including grant writing, program implementation, budget management and outcome evaluation. Gesing has her bachelor’s degree from Northern Kentucky University and has worked in Kentucky, Ohio and New York. Prior to accepting position of YWCA executive director, she was employed as the coordinator of grants and community liaison at Jamestown Public Schools coordinating afterschool program grants and the summer LEAP program.

“Becoming the executive director of YWCA Jamestown is my dream job,” Gesing said. “I look forward to bringing enthusiasm, experience and a different perspective to the dedicated team of staff and volunteers at the YWCA. One of my passions is to create inclusive and progressive space for women. I believe that together we will continue to build upon YWCA’s successful implementation of programs emboldening all women and striving toward eliminating racism within our community.”

Gesing lives in Lakewood with her husband, Josh, and their three children.

YWCA Jamestown manages a large portfolio of programs that serve the vast array of needs that Jamestown and Chautauqua County, including afterschool and early childhood education programs, transitions supportive housing for women, Women 2 Women Coaching program and more. For more information about the YWCA Jamestown, visit ywcajamestown.com.