Special to the Reporter

Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Foundation (MIYFSF) has announced the hire of new Executive Director Amy French. Her first day will be March 4.

French brings a wealth of relevant experience in strategic planning and marketing to MIYFSF, including years of service in nonprofits such as Committee for Children as senior marketing manager, and, more recently, the White Center Food Bank where she has served as co-chair of the board of directors. She has also served as director of marketing and community relations for Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria where she was actively involved with various outreach programs. She has a personal passion for food security and community service in general. As a resident of West Seattle, French looks forward to bringing her diverse set of experiences to MIYFSF and Mercer Island.

The MIYFSF board of directors wants to thank Laura Oberto for her many years of service as a volunteer, board member and most recently executive director. Oberto has been an integral part of MIYFSF operations and has been instrumental in the successful execution of our annual breakfast fundraising event, as well as overseeing numerous community outreach campaigns throughout the year. She is stepping down to spend more time with her family but remains committed to the MIYFSF mission.

“Certainly, we have big shoes to fill with Laura stepping down but are delighted to have someone with Amy’s impressive background joining us,” said Debbi Gillotti, president of the MIYFSF board of directors. “Amy is really excited about the opportunity and looks forward to meeting our key stakeholders and supporters in the very near future.”