After a search that lasted five months, H.E.R.O. for Children, Inc. welcomed its new Executive Director, Ms. Donna Drakes, in September of 2008. Donna brings to HERO 10 years of program, financial, and personnel management experience in the non-profit and social service sectors. Her professional background reflects experience providing services for adults and children in the areas of child welfare, domestic violence, substance abuse, elder care, mental health, and HIV/AIDS. She achieved tremendous success overseeing services at a large non-profit in New York City, including two programs for individuals, children and families with HIV/AIDS with a total budget of over $2 million. Donna is also extremely educated, possessing a Bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and a Master’s degree in social work from Columbia University. In addition to her tremendous professional and academic qualifications, Donna is an extremely passionate individual with the inner fire and enthusiasm to help these children that has always characterized this organization. She is now charged with developing and implementing new programs for H.E.R.O., and will take this organization to new heights. We are excited to have her on board.