Seaside, California – Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey has named Ana Ventura Phares, J.D. as Executive Director of the agency. Ana’s background in human resources, non-profits, law, and civic participation will help to lead the agency in its strategic direction. As Executive Director, Ana will strengthen the programs that help individuals and families become stable. She will also expand community support to increase self-sufficiency. In this role, Ana will oversee 23 staff in the 4 counties of Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito and San Luis Obispo.
Ana grew up on the Central Coast and her family worked in the agricultural industry in Salinas. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Santa Clara University and her Juris Doctorate from Thomas Jefferson School of Law. She worked in Santa Cruz County Government for 20 years, and served on the Watsonville City Council and the Board of Directors for Dignity Health Dominican Hospital Santa Cruz.
“I am excited to work with the dedicated staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and the Bishop to continue our mission to provide help and create hope. I look forward to developing new partnerships in the community and strengthening our relationships to maximize resources to prevent and reduce poverty on the Central Coast. With your help, I am honored to advance the Catholic Charities mission of compassion and social justice. We ask ourselves, who is our neighbor in need and how can we help them?”
On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, Chairperson Chris Panetta welcomes Ana to the agency.
Catholic Charities provides the following programs: Emergency Rental and Utility Assistance, Tattoo Removal, Immigration and Citizenship, Nutrition Education, and Cal Fresh and Medi-Cal outreach.
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