Westchester County Jewish Community Services (WJCS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lauren Candela-Katz as Chief Advancement Officer, effective October 9th. Candela-Katz has dedicated her career to supporting organizations that are deeply invested in improving the lives of those experiencing life’s most difficult challenges. Most recently, she served as Chief Development Officer at Lifting Up Westchester, an organization that serves the homeless in Westchester County. Previously, she was the Chief Development Officer of Abbott House which serves those with intellectual and developmental needs. Candela-Katz began her career at the Jewish Federation of Stamford and spent a decade working in Jewish philanthropy.
“We are thrilled to have Lauren join WJCS in the critical role of leading the development function for our organization. She brings to this role a proven record of strategic leadership and a deep commitment to helping community-based organizations grow their philanthropy and better serve underserved communities,” said WJCS CEO Seth Diamond.” Lauren’s dedication to improving the lives of all we serve and her collaborative spirit will enhance our development work and allow us to continue to make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling in Westchester.”
As Chief Advancement Officer, Candela-Katz will oversee WJCS’s philanthropic efforts, working both with individual donors and foundations. She will also supervise the Grants, Marketing, and Volunteer Departments.
“I am honored to join WJCS, one of the largest human service organizations in Westchester and excited about collaborating with the dedicated Board, staff, and volunteers to further the important impact this remarkable agency has on peoples lives and in strengthening the community,” said Candela-Katz.
Candela-Katz earned a Master of Social Work degree in Community Organization and a Certificate in Jewish Communal Service from The Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University. She is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and certified in The Psychology of Philanthropy through the Institute of Sustainable Philanthropy. She currently co-chairs the new CDO Affinity Group with Nonprofit Westchester and serves on their Advocacy Committee.
