MARCH 1, 2015 – Long‐time Miamian, community leader and activist Claudia C. Kitchens has been named Executive Director of Kristi House, Board President Juan Trescastro announced, concluding a three‐month, national search process. Ms. Kitchens, one of Kristi House’s earliest board members nearly two decades ago, has spent her career in Miami as a non‐profit administrator, business leader and fund developer, having successfully grown several community organizations and businesses. She has spearheaded projects involving domestic violence, homelessness and foster care.

“Claudia brings to Kristi House a unique combination of leadership, fundraising and business experience that we need to take us to the next level,” Mr. Trescastro said. “She has led major community organizations and initiatives and has deep roots and connections in this community. We are very fortunate to have her at the helm.”

Ms. Kitchens headed up Women’s Fund of Miami‐Dade for nine years during which time it progressed from a small organization to a major funding group supporting grassroots girls and women’s programs. She oversaw the Women’s Fund annual grant making cycle and directed all aspects of fund development and financial management, resulting in more than tenfold growth of programs and revenue.

“We were very attracted to Claudia because of her entrepreneurial success, having successfully owned and operated retail businesses,” Mr. Trescastro said. “She has a strong track record of bottom‐line business skills and an ability to make use of that know‐how in a non‐profit environment.”

Ms. Kitchens is credited with several other “firsts” that are still going strong today: Founding Chair of The Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Council of Greater Miami; Founding Board member of Casa Valentina; and Founding Chair of Inn Transition, a transitional housing facility for homeless, abused women and their children founded by the Junior League of Miami 25 years ago. She is recipient of many awards for her service.