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Meredith Levine
Senior Director, Information & Case Assistance at JASA
Professional Background
Meredith Levine is a prominent social service leader with a rich tapestry of experience dedicated to enhancing the welfare of families across New York City. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Information and Case Assistance at JASA, she skillfully manages a significant portfolio of $1.3 million, making a profound impact on the lives of around 10,000 older adults and their families every year. Her leadership is characterized by a comprehensive understanding of community needs and a commitment to creating accessible pathways for individuals seeking social services.
With a career that spans various sectors including child welfare, services for individuals with developmental disabilities, and community resource mobilization, Meredith has developed a multifaceted approach to social work that addresses the intricate systems affecting New Yorkers in need. Her strategic focus has been on improving information and referral programs at major social service organizations in New York City, thereby streamlining access to critical resources and support for at-risk populations.
As a seasoned grant writer, Meredith began her professional journey at a grassroots hunger-fighting agency in rural Florida. This foundational experience fueled her passion for service, allowing her to engage deeply with community needs. Over the years, she has made tremendous strides in helping stabilize at-risk families in the South Bronx, empowering community members through training programs, and advocating for children with special needs—not only supporting the parents but also equipping siblings with valuable coping skills to embrace their unique family dynamics.
Education and Achievements
Meredith's educational background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills vital for her role in social services. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the prestigious University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which honed her writing and communication skills. Following this, she pursued a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Columbia University, a powerhouse of social service education, reinforcing her theoretical and practical understanding of the social work landscape.
In her quest to benefit children and families in need, Meredith has successfully raised over $500,000 through grant writing, directly contributing to the development of programs tailored to support vulnerable populations in New York City. This exceptional fundraising acumen demonstrates her commitment not only to her communities but also to sustainable social service initiatives.
Notable Positions
Throughout her distinguished career, Meredith has held various critical positions that reflect her growth and dedication to the social services sector. Some notable roles include:
- Senior Director at JASA: Overseeing a substantial portfolio and the strategic direction of services aimed at older adults.
- Director, Information & Referral at UJA-Federation of New York: Leading initiatives to enhance access to crucial community services.
- Group Leader at Sib Fun, JCC in Manhattan: Facilitating programs for siblings of children with special needs, fostering support and understanding.
- Program Coordinator & Grant Writer at JBFCS: Spearheading efforts to secure funding for programs that enrich family welfare.
- Director of Training at BronxWorks: Equipping personnel and volunteers with the skills necessary to support diverse community needs.
In addition to these professional roles, her early career experiences include significant internships at reputable organizations such as the Legal Aid Society and the Jewish Home & Hospital, alongside her time as an Americorps Volunteer with Farm Share.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Meredith's advocacy work extends beyond direct service. She is an essential figure in raising community awareness around the issues faced by families, particularly those of children with special needs. By training community members to navigate the complexities of social services, she empowers them to become advocates within their own communities. Her experience as a group leader and program coordinator allows her to create targeted support systems, helping not only the families directly affected but also their wider networks.
In her pursuit to enrich the lives of others through service, Meredith Levine exemplifies the spirit of resilience and compassion. As a social service leader, her overarching mission is to foster environments where families can achieve independence and success. Her contributions to the field are not just seen in the programs she manages but also in the countless lives she has touched along the way.