Sunny Hills Services names Josh Leonard Chief Program Officer

San Anselmo, CA. July 9, 2013 – Sunny Hills Services, a private, non-profit organization that serves vulnerable youth, children and their families through an array of programs across the Bay Area, recently promoted Josh Leonard to the new position of Chief Program Officer (CPO). The appointment comes in response to Sunny Hills Services’ evolving leadership and management needs given its continued growth and expanding programs.

                In his position as CPO, Josh (formerly Executive Director of Sunny Hills Services’ East Bay division- BAYC) plays a key role in unifying practice elements across all agency programs, and identifying and pursuing opportunities for need-based program growth.  The addition of the CPO position also enhances the Agency’s administrative depth, which is of critical importance as it moves forward in implementing its “Theory of Change,” a strategic plan that further defines its goals and quantifies outcomes.

                Josh brings a wealth of experience and passion to his new position, having served youth and families at BAYC for more than 20 years. He started as a counselor in one of its group homes and served in various positions before becoming Executive Director in 2002 and leading BAYC through its merger with Sunny Hills Services in 2008.  “Josh has been a key architect of the transitional housing and mental health programs at BAYC and is acknowledged as a thought leader and effective advocate for transition age youth.  Sunny Hills Services and the youth we serve are very fortunate to have him,” said Mary Denton, Sunny Hills’ CEO.

                Josh currently serves on the Board of Directors of the California Alliance for Child and Family Services and the Alameda County Foster Youth Alliance.  He has a Bachelor's Degree in sociology from the University of California, Berkeley.

About Sunny Hills Services

The mission of Sunny Hills Services is to engage vulnerable children and youth, enrich their connections with their families and communities, and empower them to lead healthy, rewarding lives. Founded in 1895 as an orphanage and farm, Sunny Hills Services has since grown to become a regional organization widely recognized as being at the forefront of best practices in child welfare. Today Sunny Hills operates a variety of distinct programs in Marin, Sonoma, and Alameda counties and strives to address the needs of at-risk children to help them function productively in society.  Website: www.sunnyhillsservices.org