YWCA Darien/Norwalk Names Jennifer Buchholz New CEO, Announces Upcoming Programs

The YWCA Darien/Norwalk Board of Directors announced on Wednesday the appointment of Jennifer Buchholz as the organization’s chief executive officer.

The organization also announced the launch of its new season of programming.

— an announcement from the YWCA Darien/Norwalk

Buchholz had been serving as interim CEO since the beginning of 2024, and assumed the role permanently this summer. Before stepping into the CEO role, she served on the board of directors for four years. She has lived in Darien for eight years while raising her son, now 15.

“Her vision for supporting women and girls, along with her dedication to fostering collaboration with organizations across Darien and Norwalk, will help expand our outreach, strengthen networks, and ensure that YWCA Darien/Norwalk continues to be a vital local resource ,” said Tara Giblin, vice chair of the board of directors.

Buchholz’s experience includes serving as chief human resource officer for multiple organizations. She’s worked in a range of industries from public Fortune 500 companies such as General Electric (GE) and CB Richard Ellis, to smaller privately held corporations. While at GE, Buchholz led the largest hub of the company’s Women’s Network.

She is also actively involved in numerous community organizations throughout Fairfield County, including formerly serving on the board of directors for the Greenwich YWCA and the Women’s Mentoring Network in Stamford.

“My entire career and life philosophy has centered around developing empowered communities, establishing cultural connections and fostering diversity and inclusion  – which is exactly what we aim to achieve here at YWCA Darien/Norwalk,” Buchholzs said.

Upcoming Programs

YWCA Darien/Norwalk’s mission is to build a more inclusive and connected community through new education and awareness initiatives, providing women and families with the support and tools they need to lead empowered lives.

The organization is also reenvisioning its club offerings to further foster the friendships and networks that have been a cornerstone of the YWCA experience.

Highlights of the upcoming 2024/25 season of programming include:

• YWCA’s first Family Open House: A free event for the whole family featuring a fun-filled day of crafts, performances and interactive activities where you can also learn about how to get involved with our work to empower women and families and advance social justice;

• New and refreshed educational events including a Financial Literacy program, a Well-Women Series and a Women-Owned Business feature;

• Reimagined club offerings including our Youth Empowerment Committee, Network of Working Women, and Beyond Newcomers Club;

• A robust Week Without Violence — a signature week of events for YWs across the country as we dedicate a week in October to raising awareness of domestic violence; and more.

For more information about YWCA Darien/Norwalk, including all of our upcoming events and programming, please visit www.ywcadn.org/.