Weston Native Appointed Executive Director of State Nonprofit

WESTON, MA - A Weston native has been named the new executive director of a Massachusetts nonprofit that provides emergency assistance to families experiencing sudden crisis.

Polly Mendoza, a current Maynard resident, was appointed to the position by the Neighborhood Brigade, an all-volunteer nonprofit.

She succeeds Stephanie Lawrence, who served as the executive director for three years. The organization is currently comprised of close to 5,000 volunteers who provide meals, rides, home visits and other acts of support for families in crisis.

"I’ve long been inspired by and committed to serving nonprofit organizations with a strong and meaningful impact on diverse communities," Mendoza said in a press release. "When looking to relocate my family from Denver back to the Boston area, I was immediately drawn to the mission and work of Neighbor Brigade. This is an organization that transcends social barriers; no matter who you are or what your circumstance, when a crisis strikes, you need help and your neighbors can be a tremendous source of support to help your get back on our feet."

Mendoza brings more than a decade of experience directing community-based nonprofit groups to her new role; she previously founded and ran HILLS, Inc., a Denver-based nonprofit that specializes in providing recreation and social programs for people with developmental disabilities.

"We are so fortunate to have found someone as passionate about our mission as Polly to carry the torch forward," Susan Parente, president of the Neighbor Brigade board of directors, said in the release. "Polly has the experience and drive to help us expand our reach throughout Massachusetts and make the vision of neighbors-helping-neighbors a reality in as many towns as possible. Our organization is in good hands with Polly."

Photo courtesy of Neighbor Brigade