Kimberly Townsend brings over 25 years of experience in youth development and nearly 10 years in nonprofit leadership to her role as Director of Program Operations at Youth Outreach Services. Her career began as an Adolescent Mental Health Paraprofessional, supporting young people impacted by trauma, and has since included leadership positions in Chicago and abroad. Townsend has served as Executive Director of America SCORES Chicago, Chief Program Officer at Urban Initiatives, and Executive Director of John Givonetti Giving in Cambodia, where she focused on program design, organizational growth, and empowering youth and families to reach their full potential.
Townsend holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in peace and justice from Villanova University and a Global Master of Arts in international relations and human development from Webster University, with studies across Europe and Asia. In addition to her nonprofit leadership, she has been a doula for 20 years, certified in supporting families through prenatal, birth, and postpartum care.
Kimberly Townsend, Director of Program Operations: Kimberly Townsend brings more than 25 years of experience in youth development and nearly a decade of nonprofit executive leadership to her role at Youth Outreach Services (YOS). She oversees the implementation and quality of YOS’s community-based programs, ensuring that youth and families across Chicago and surrounding communities receive compassionate, evidence-based services that promote long-term success. Kimberly began her career as an Adolescent Mental Health Paraprofessional, supporting young people affected by trauma and mental health challenges.
Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership positions dedicated to strengthening nonprofit organizations, expanding youth development programs, and improving outcomes for underserved communities. Her previous roles include Executive Director of America SCORES Chicago, Chief Program Officer at Urban Initiatives, and Executive Director of John Givonetti Giving in Cambodia, where she led program development, organizational growth, and initiatives that empowered youth and families to thrive. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in Peace and Justice from Villanova University and a Global Master of Arts in International Relations and Human Development from Webster University, completing studies throughout Europe and Asia. Her global perspective and commitment to equity continue to shape her collaborative leadership approach and dedication to creating opportunities for young people. In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Kimberly has served as a certified Doula for more than 20 years, providing compassionate prenatal, birth, and postpartum support to families. Her lifelong commitment to serving others reflects Youth Outreach Services’ mission to inspire positive development and strengthen youth, families, and communities.