After 20 years in charge of one of the Lower East Side’s largest and oldest social service organizations, Margarita Rose is stepping down as executive director of Grand Street Settlement. She made the announcement earlier this week, saying she intended to continue her work in social justice advocacy.
According to a press release, Rosa will remain in her position for a few more months. The non-profit organization’s board of directors has hired Machlowitz Consultants to begin the search for a new executive director.
“Margarita has led our organization with intelligence, effectiveness, and heart for nearly 20 years – one-fifth of the Settlement’s entire existence,” said Board President Sylvia Montero.” As the settlement prepares to celebrate its centennial anniversary next year, Montero said, “we are especially grateful for her leadership and her service, and we look forward to the opportunity to acknowledge that as part of our year-long Centennial celebration.”
Rosa led a major expansion of Grand Street Settlement during the past two decades. Today there are more than 270 employees. The organization has a $15 million annual budget and offers early childhood, adult and senior programs to 10,000 New Yorkers every year. Grand Street is the lead community partner in the large Essex Crossing development project, which will include a new facility for the organization’s programs on Delancey Street.
Rosa did not spell out her specific plans for the future.
