The People Behind Our Mission

"Give a hand to your fellow man."

Arlene Edwards-Hammond exemplifies distinguished service through a multifaceted career that seamlessly weaves together her roles as devoted mother, accomplished educator, seasoned administrator, proud U.S. military veteran, and compassionate caregiver. Each dimension of her professional and personal journey has deepened her profound commitment to empowering others and creating meaningful change.

Beginning her transformative career in 1971 with Head Start, Arlene has devoted over five decades to advancing the welfare of children and families, guiding them toward realizing their highest potential. Her extensive experience has cultivated exceptional leadership capabilities characterized by unwavering loyalty, adaptive flexibility, and steadfast accountability—qualities that have consistently distinguished her collaborative approach to management and mentorship.

Arlene's perspective on veteran advocacy transcends professional obligation, rooted instead in lived experience and genuine empathy. As a veteran who has navigated the complexities of military life and family dynamics firsthand, she brings authentic understanding to her advocacy work. Her dedication to supporting fellow service members is matched only by her commitment to fostering inclusive leadership that ensures every individual's contributions are recognized and valued.

In her well-earned retirement, Arlene finds fulfillment in enriching travel experiences, restorative moments along coastal shores, and cinema that explores the human condition. Yet her deepest satisfaction continues to stem from her ongoing efforts to cultivate unity and shared purpose within organizations dedicated to meaningful impact.

Arlene's appointment as Vice President represents the natural evolution of her proven leadership philosophy—one that consistently brings diverse stakeholders together around common objectives while amplifying every voice in the conversation. Her legacy of service continues to inspire collaborative excellence and transformative change across all communities she touches.