ROCKLAND — The board of directors at New Hope for Women has announced the appointment of a new executive director.

Rebekah Paredes, who has an extensive background in working with victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking, as well as the homeless and impoverished, succeeds Kathleen Morgan, who retired in January after leading the organization since 1993.

Paredes will be responsible for all agency services ranging from advocacy and education, to fund development, programming, and community outreach.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rebekah to New Hope for Women,” said Board President Vera Roberts. “With her incredible background, energetic demeanor, and passion for community service, we believe she’s the perfect person to advance New Hope’s vision of ending domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.”

New Hope for Women’s service area includes four counties, 73 cities and towns, and six islands with year-round population. In 2018, New Hope for Women provided 4,660 hours of direct service to 1,475 individuals. That included 899 hours of legal/court services. The agency furnished 62 safe home nights, 6,061 direct service volunteer hours, and 2,534 hours of community and youth education to 7,932 individuals.

Paredes joins New Hope for Women with more than 18 years of experience in the nonprofit and community services sector and has extensive experience in advocacy work, community engagement, grant writing, and program development.

While at Baystate Health in western Massachusetts, Paredes managed the Family Advocacy Center, a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center, as well as five other complex behavioral medicine programs.  Additionally, she helped to implement and create a supportive housing program for the homeless during her tenure at the Center for Human Development’s Western Connecticut programs.

“Community work is where my heart is and always has been. I am thrilled to be a part of this wonderful organization and community. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to represent New Hope for Women. I look forward to cultivating and nurturing a bright new future for the agency alongside the Board of Directors and the New Hope for Women staff,” said Paredes, in a news release.

New Hope for Women offers support to people in Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, and Waldo counties affected by domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. It also provides important educational resources to assist our communities in creating a safer and healthier future.

Learn more about New Hope for Women at www.newhopeforwomen.org or call 800-522-3304.