HAMDEN - Delaware Opportunities today announced that Executive Director Dr. Shelly Bartow will leave the organization effective Dec. 31, to pursue an exciting new leadership opportunity in the non-profit sector. Bartow will continue her lifelong mission of improving the lives of neighbors in need and strengthening the communities they call home.
During her tenure, Bartow has distinguished herself through exceptional leadership and stewardship of Delaware Opportunities’ state and federally funded programs. Under her direction, the organization has maintained years of solid, clean audits and exceptional program reviews conducted by the federal and state agencies responsible for overseeing the programs administered locally by Delaware Opportunities. Her commitment to sound management, accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility has solidly positioned the organization for decades of continued success.
Delaware Opportunities also announced that Charles Bailey, the organization’s housing director, will serve as interim executive director following Bartow’s departure and as the organization conducts a search for a permanent successor. Bailey brings extensive experience with Delaware Opportunities and a deep understanding of the organization’s programs, mission and the communities it serves.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Bartow for her extraordinary service to Delaware Opportunities,” said Arthur Edel, president of the Delaware Opportunities Board of Directors. “Shelly leaves this organization on strong financial footing and well positioned to flourish for the next 60 years. We wish her every success in the next chapter of her professional and personal journey and know she will continue making a difference in the lives of people in need.”
“At the same time, we are excited about what the future holds and thank Charles Bailey for agreeing to serve as interim executive director and lead our team during this pivotal transition. The organization’s mission remains strong, and its future is bright.”
“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together at Delaware Opportunities, and I am especially grateful to our dedicated staff and Board of Directors,” said Dr. Bartow. “Their commitment, sacrifice and unwavering support - often behind the scenes and without recognition - have made it possible for us to serve tens of thousands of our neighbors and strengthen our communities one resident at a time. It has been an honor to lead the Delaware Opportunities family, and I leave knowing that its mission is in the hands of people who care deeply about its future.”
