RESPOND, Inc. Executive Director Jessica Brayden has been named as a finalist for the Mass Nonprofit Network’s Excellence in Leadership Award.

By Rebecca Danvers

Jessica Brayden, Executive Director of RESPOND, Inc., has been named a finalist for the Mass Nonprofit Network’s Excellence in Leadership Award.

Brayden has been at the helm of RESPOND, a Somerville-based domestic violence agency, for the past six years and has been committed to raising RESPOND’s visibility and reach within the community, enabling the organization to fulfill its important mission of supporting victims of domestic violence.

“Being recognized for my work leading RESPOND is easily the highlight of my career,” Brayden said of the nomination. “This nomination is the culmination of all the learning, successes, failures, strategic vision and luck that helped me bring RESPOND into a new era.”

During her tenure at RESPOND, Brayden has formed valuable partnerships with local businesses, donors and police and become a strong leader in Somerville. Her impact is felt in every facet of the organization, including her personal support of survivors, development of cutting edge programs, fundraising and the hiring of talented and compassionate staff.

Because of her advocacy and passion, RESPOND now has an inclusive shelter that allows men—a unique concept for this type of organization. Brayden will be honored at the Mass Nonprofit Network’s Nonprofit Awareness Day on Monday, June 8. Hundreds of nonprofit and business leaders, along with elected officials, will celebrate the work of the nonprofit sector and raise awareness of causes throughout the state.

For more information about RESPOND, visit www.respondinc.org.