MercyFirst Executive and Leadership Team

Renee Skolaski, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MercyFirst, directs the overarching strategy and executive leadership for the not-for-profit human service agency. Skolaski guides the organization's mission to provide an integrated continuum of care for traumatized and neglected children, teenagers, and their families throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. This leadership role involves ensuring the effective operation of diverse programs, including Family Support Programs, Foster Homes and Adoption Services, Treatment Family Foster Care, Community-based Group Homes, Mother/Child Residences, and Campus-based Residential Treatment Programs. Renee Skolaski drives the strategic vision, fostering partnerships and resource development to sustain and expand MercyFirst's critical services. The focus remains on enhancing the well-being and stability of the communities served, upholding the foundational values established by the Sisters of Mercy.

Juanita Padilla, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at MercyFirst, directs the day-to-day operational execution of the agency's extensive service offerings. Padilla oversees the comprehensive management of all program sites and service delivery models, ensuring the effective provision of care for children, teenagers, and families throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. This critical role involves optimizing the operational workflows for Family Support Programs, Foster Homes and Adoption Services, Treatment Family Foster Care, Community-based Group Homes, Mother/Child Residences, and Campus-based Residential Treatment Programs. Juanita Padilla ensures operational excellence and resource allocation to support the agency's mission of healing and empowerment. The focus remains on maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational integrity across all MercyFirst initiatives.

Katya Lanfant, the Chief of Staff at MercyFirst, manages critical administrative functions and supports the executive leadership team in executing strategic initiatives. Lanfant ensures operational efficiency across various departments, facilitating seamless communication and coordination between the President & Chief Executive Officer and other key stakeholders. This role involves overseeing special projects, optimizing internal processes, and driving the implementation of organizational policies. Katya Lanfant plays a vital part in translating strategic objectives into actionable plans, ensuring that MercyFirst's mission of providing comprehensive care for children and families is consistently advanced. The focus is on enhancing organizational effectiveness and supporting the delivery of integrated services throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties.

Achim Kretschmer, the Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP, Information Technology at MercyFirst, architects and oversees the agency's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Kretschmer drives innovation in information technology to support the delivery of integrated care services for traumatized and neglected children, teenagers, and their families across New York. This leadership position involves managing all aspects of IT operations, including system security, data management, and the implementation of technological solutions that enhance program efficiency and client support. Achim Kretschmer ensures that technology aligns with MercyFirst's mission, enabling effective operations for Family Support Programs, Foster Homes, Adoption Services, and residential treatment facilities. The strategic direction focuses on leveraging technology to expand reach and improve outcomes for the communities served.