PHILADELPHIA, PA — Cradles to Crayons-Philadelphia has appointed Wyneshia Foxworth-Johnson as executive director, effective today, April 29, the organization announced.
Foxworth-Johnson succeeds Michal Smith, who retired after leading the nonprofit for 15 years.
A Philadelphia native, Foxworth-Johnson brings more than 20 years of experience in education and nonprofit leadership, with previous roles at City Year, College Possible, and Communities in Schools of Philadelphia.
Her appointment comes as the organization prepares to launch a five-year strategic plan focused on expanding services to children experiencing clothing insecurity, defined as a lack of adequate and appropriate clothing.
Cradles to Crayons provides new and gently used clothing and essential items to children in low-income and homeless situations across Greater Philadelphia.
The organization distributes an estimated 300,000 packages annually through a network of 145 service partners.
Foxworth-Johnson said her focus on addressing barriers facing children began early in her career while working in an elementary school.
“I remember this young man to this day,” she said, describing a student who arrived at school without basic resources. “He was already walking in the door two steps behind the students in the classroom—and he was five.”
Christine Morin, chief executive officer of Cradles to Crayons, said Foxworth-Johnson brings leadership experience aligned with the organization’s mission.
Chantee Angus, chair of the Cradles to Crayons-Philadelphia board, said Foxworth-Johnson’s background in nonprofit and community work positions her to lead the organization’s next phase.
Cradles to Crayons operates nationally, with locations in Boston, Chicago, and Philadelphia.
The organization collects donations at its East Falls Giving Factory and additional locations across the region, and offers volunteer opportunities to support sorting and distribution efforts.
More information is available at https://www.cradlestocrayons.org/philadelphia/.
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