MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Board of Directors of Amigos For Kids announces the selection of Karina Pavone as the organization’s new executive director, effective January 6, 2020. Pavone follows Amigos’ Interim President and CEO, Lydia Muñiz, who stepped in to lead the organization after the unexpected passing in October 2018 of its longtime president and CEO, Rosa Maria Plasencia. The Board unanimously selected Pavone after an extensive search, with more than 300 applicants.
“With Karina’s vast experience and solid reputation of excellence, we feel she is uniquely qualified to lead Amigos For Kids into the future,” stated Jorge A. Plasencia, co-founder and chairman emeritus of Amigos For Kids. “Under her leadership, we are confident the organization will build on its strengths and develop new programs and partnerships while solidifying existing programs and relationships with longtime partners and supporters,” said Plasencia.
Pavone joins Amigos For Kids after 25 years of work as a therapist, as well as a non-profit and higher education administrator. She has held various leadership roles throughout her career, including 16 years with Miami Dade College. Most recently, she served as associate dean at the School of Continuing Education and Professional Development, where she helped some of the most at-risk students pursue their educational goals and aspirations.
“Karina brings an exceptional combination of energy, sensitivity, and proven leadership to the challenges of working in a non-profit setting. Both the Board and staff are impressed with her extensive knowledge, strong management skills, and years of experience in social services. We expect Karina not only to continue Amigos’ excellent programs and legacy but to work with partners and funders to help expand programs to more people in our community and beyond,” added Nicole Valls, board chair, Amigos For Kids.
Pavone received her Doctor in Clinical Psychology degree (ABD) from Albizu University, a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Albizu University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida International University.
“I am honored to have been selected to lead an organization that epitomizes my passion for helping children and families, and one that is driven by such a clear purpose. In my professional and personal experience, I have been privileged to witness the positive impact of good people giving back to the community. It is in the spirit of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others, that I begin my work at Amigos For Kids. I am excited to work with the exceptional team at Amigos to help the organization meet the challenges of the next decade,” said Karina Pavone, executive director, Amigos For Kids “Amigos For Kids is a gem in our community. I am looking forward to bringing the work of this amazing organization to more people,” she added.
ABOUT AMIGOS FOR KIDS
Founded in 1991, Amigos For Kids’ mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect by valuing children, strengthening families, and educating communities. Amigos For Kids actualizes its purpose every day via key program components including education, awareness, and advocacy. The education framework includes an After-School Program at José Martí Park that serves children ages 6 - 11 daily and its evidenced-based Nurturing Parents Program. The After-School Program Educational parenting workshops serve countless families throughout the region. Since its inception, Amigos For Kids has also organized one of the community’s largest and most meaningful holiday toy drives. The effort, reaching thousands of children over the years, makes their specific holiday wishes come true. To fulfill its mission, Amigos For Kids relies on the support of generous individuals, corporate partners, and volunteers. To learn more, visit www.amigosforkids.org.
