ABOVE: ALSO Youth Executive Director Rebecca “Becky” McDonough. Photos via ALSO Youth.
SARASOTA | ALSO Youth has announced that Rebecca “Becky” McDonough has assumed the role of executive director.
The nonprofit has worked to create inclusive communities in and around Sarasota for 30 years, expanding in recent years and strengthening its focus by reaching even more LGBTQ youth. McDonough officially began her work in the role April 11 before an in-person event welcomed her April 26.
McDonough follows Mickey Stone in the role, the organization’s former executive director who left Jan. 31. ALSO Youth declined to provide a reason for his departure.
According to the organization, McDonough “has a distinguished career in business and behavioral healthcare administration. Her most recent role was Director of Clinical Services at Palm Shores Behavioral Health Center, a psychiatric residential treatment center for youth with trauma history.”
McDonough has a master’s degree in Human Development Counseling and a Doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. She is also a 20-year member of MCC Church of the Trinity, which hosted the welcome vent, and serves on its board as Vice-Moderator. She also serves on the board of Trinity Charities, a nonprofit AIDS service organization.
“We are fortunate to have an Executive Director with extensive experience working with youth who are dealing with emotional stress and trauma,” ALSO Youth Board President Mary Tavarozzi said in a statement. “The current environment in Florida has contributed to a significant increase in youth seeking mental health support and services.
“We are confident that Becky can lead ALSO Youth staff and guide the programs and services needed to create affirming and safe spaces for our youth,” she continued. “We are extremely excited to work with Becky to grow our services and partner with her to foster an inclusive environment in our schools and communities.”
“I am so excited to be joining this incredible organization and look forward to working with our community partners to support our youth and families,” McDonough added.
For more information about ALSO Youth’s services and upcoming events, visit ALSOYouth.org.
