Channel Islands YMCA Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Channel Islands YMCA has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, internal operations, and regional program management.

Committed to strengthening communities through youth development and healthy living, Channel Islands YMCA delivers essential social services across Santa Barbara and Ventura counties to foster long-term community well-being.

Leadership Roles at Channel Islands YMCA

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Sal Cisneros
  • Chief Financial Officer - Cynthia Halstead
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler
  • Chief Operations Officer - Keola Taniguchi
  • Sal Cisneros - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Sal Cisneros, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Channel Islands YMCA, directs the overarching strategic vision for seven distinct branches across two counties. By aligning organizational goals with the mission of youth development and social responsibility, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that over 46,000 individuals receive high-quality support. Sal Cisneros manages relationships with the Board of Directors to secure financial sustainability and expand the reach of charitable programs. This leadership role involves prioritizing the allocation of $1.3 million in financial assistance to maximize community impact. Through constant engagement with local stakeholders, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the reputation of the organization as a leader in nonprofit excellence. By focusing on long-term growth and operational integrity, the executive secures the future of essential services like child care and youth sports programs throughout the region.
    Sal Cisneros

    Cynthia Halstead - Chief Financial Officer

    Cynthia Halstead, the Chief Financial Officer at Channel Islands YMCA, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for all seven branches. Overseeing the complex financial reporting required for a large nonprofit, the Chief Financial Officer ensures transparency and compliance across all regional operations. Cynthia Halstead monitors the distribution of $1.3 million in financial assistance, verifying that funds reach families in need for memberships and camp programs. This role involves collaborating with the executive team to optimize resource allocation and maintain the stability of the organization. By implementing rigorous accounting standards, the Chief Financial Officer protects the assets of the institution while supporting the expansion of youth development initiatives. Through precise financial forecasting and risk management, the executive provides the necessary foundation for the continued success of the organization in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

    Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler - Chief Operating Officer

    Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler, the Chief Operating Officer at Channel Islands YMCA, architects the internal processes and administrative frameworks that support daily branch activities. Focusing on the efficiency of youth development programs, the Chief Operating Officer streamlines service delivery for child care and after-school initiatives. Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler coordinates with branch directors to ensure consistent quality across the seven locations in the region. This leadership role involves refining operational workflows to improve the experience for members and families utilizing YMCA facilities. By driving improvements in facility management and program logistics, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the overall capacity of the organization to serve the community. Through the implementation of standardized operational protocols, the executive ensures that every branch maintains the high standards expected of the nonprofit while supporting the broader mission of healthy living and social responsibility.
    Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler

    Keola Taniguchi - Chief Operations Officer

    Keola Taniguchi, the Chief Operations Officer at Channel Islands YMCA, manages the execution of specialized youth and family services, including the Noah's Anchorage Youth Crisis Shelter and the St. George Family Youth Center. By overseeing these critical community programs, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that vulnerable populations receive necessary support and resources. Keola Taniguchi directs the integration of these specialized services into the broader organizational structure, fostering collaboration between youth crisis teams and family-focused branches. This role involves monitoring program outcomes and adjusting service models to meet the evolving needs of the community. Through the management of these vital social responsibility initiatives, the Chief Operations Officer strengthens the impact of the organization in the region. By focusing on the operational success of these specific centers, the executive ensures that the mission of the nonprofit reaches those requiring the most intensive care and support.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Channel Islands YMCA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Channel Islands YMCA?
    Channel Islands YMCA is led by Sal Cisneros (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Cynthia Halstead (Chief Financial Officer) and Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Channel Islands YMCA’s executive team?
    The executive team of Channel Islands YMCA includes leaders such as Sal Cisneros (President & Chief Executive Officer), Cynthia Halstead (Chief Financial Officer), Jennifer Heinen-Stiffler (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Channel Islands YMCA have?
    Channel Islands YMCA has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Channel Islands YMCA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Channel Islands YMCA includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operations Officer.