The Fresh Air Fund Executive and Leadership Team

Wendy Flanagan, the President at The Fresh Air Fund, defines the strategic vision and oversees the execution of all organizational goals. Flanagan leads the executive team in delivering free summer experiences to children from low-income communities, ensuring that the mission remains central to every decision. The President manages relationships with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders to foster long-term growth and stability. Wendy Flanagan evaluates program efficacy and identifies opportunities for expansion within the New York City area. By setting high-level priorities, the President ensures that all departments work in harmony to maximize the positive impact on youth. This leadership role involves representing the organization in public forums and advocating for the importance of outdoor education. Through decisive action and strategic planning, the President maintains the operational excellence required to continue the legacy of providing life-changing opportunities to children in need.

Adrienne Trinka, the Chief of Staff at The Fresh Air Fund, manages internal operations and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to ensure organizational efficiency. Trinka aligns daily administrative workflows with the broader mission of providing summer experiences to children from low-income communities. By facilitating communication between the executive team and various program departments, the Chief of Staff optimizes resource allocation and project execution. Adrienne Trinka monitors key performance indicators to track the impact of summer programs on youth development. This leadership role involves streamlining internal processes to support the long-term sustainability of the organization. Through rigorous oversight of operational logistics, the Chief of Staff maintains the high standards required for safe and effective program delivery. Trinka drives internal collaboration, ensuring that all staff members remain focused on the core objective of expanding access to outdoor opportunities for New York City youth.

Elizabeth Grayer, the Interim Chief Legal Officer at The Fresh Air Fund, directs all legal affairs and regulatory compliance efforts for the organization. Grayer manages risk mitigation strategies while overseeing contractual agreements with program partners and vendors. The Interim Chief Legal Officer ensures that all charitable activities adhere to state and federal regulations governing non-profit operations. Elizabeth Grayer provides critical guidance on governance matters, supporting the Board in maintaining transparency and accountability. By navigating complex legal landscapes, the Interim Chief Legal Officer protects the interests of the organization and the children served. Grayer evaluates potential liabilities associated with outdoor summer programs, implementing robust safety protocols to minimize operational risks. This leadership role requires constant vigilance regarding changing legal standards in the non-profit sector. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Interim Chief Legal Officer secures the legal foundation necessary for the continued success of the organization.

Elizabeth Portland, the Chief Development & Communications Officer at The Fresh Air Fund, architects comprehensive fundraising strategies and public relations campaigns to support organizational growth. Portland oversees donor relations, grant acquisition, and brand messaging to ensure consistent financial support for summer programs. The Chief Development & Communications Officer drives engagement with corporate partners and individual donors to expand the reach of the organization. Elizabeth Portland manages the narrative surrounding the impact of these programs on New York City youth, highlighting the importance of accessible outdoor experiences. By leveraging digital platforms and community outreach, the Chief Development & Communications Officer increases public awareness and philanthropic participation. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to align marketing efforts with long-term financial goals. Portland secures the necessary resources to sustain and scale operations, ensuring that the mission remains visible and supported across diverse donor networks.