Janet Bermudez, has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Hands On Hartford in Hartford, CT. She will succeed the retiring Barbara A. Shaw, who has led the longstanding nonprofit organization for the past 13 years on November 22, 2024. Janet has been in the role of Deputy Executive Director since last November 2023 when Barbara A. Shaw announced her plans for retirement.

With 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector serving the Hartford community, Janet brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her new role. She has spent 17 years at Hands On Hartford, where she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to putting caring into action. Janet strongly believes in the organization's mission of upholding dignity and respect for all individuals and looks forward to further growth within both the organization and the community. She is also, “looking forward to navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes ahead for both Hands On Hartford and the neighbors we have served for over 55 years.”

Hands On Hartford has supported the most vulnerable neighbors in Hartford through essential programs and services addressing food insecurity, housing stability, and health support since 1969. Each year, the organization positively impacts the lives of over 7,000 residents. Hands On Hartford has a rich history of collaboration with both secular and faith-based partners in the Greater Hartford area, and Janet is eager to forge new relationships to expand this support network.

To learn more about Hands On Hartford and its programs, please visit www.handsonhartford.org.