Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children announced the appointment of Joyce Chester as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective Feb. 15.

Joyce, formerly the Executive Director of the Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC), brings a wealth of
experience, leadership, and passion for community service in her new role.

Joyce is a visionary leader with a proven track record of fostering positive change and empowering individuals and communities. As the Executive Director of the Chester County OIC, she spearheaded initiatives in adult and youth literacy, job training, and education that have made a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of individuals. Her commitment to uplifting and advocating for underserved youth and adults is well-aligned with the values of the Friends Association.
In her new capacity as CEO, Joyce will lead the Friends Association in providing programs and services that prevent homelessness and promote the independence of families with children.

“I am honored and excited to join the Friends Association,” said Joyce Chester. “The organization has a 200-year history of making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success. Together, with the dedicated team at Friends Association, we will work towards transforming the lives of those facing homelessness in Chester County.”

Friends Association Board President Yolanda Van De Krol expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Joyce Chester to Friends Association. Her leadership and commitment to community empowerment make her the ideal candidate to lead our organization into its next chapter. We look forward to working closely with Joyce to build on the achievements of the Friends Association and further expand our impact.”
Friends Association’s Board of Directors is confident that Joyce Chester’s appointment as CEO will enhance the organization’s ability to address the community’s evolving needs and continue providing essential services to those facing housing crises.

Friends Association has administered housing-related programs in the Southeast region of Pennsylvania since 1822. Continuously operating as a non-profit in Pennsylvania for 200 years, Friends’ mission became focused on solutions to ending family homelessness in 2010.

True to its Quaker roots, the organization continues the legacy of social justice through its belief that housing is a basic human right and centers its work on recognizing the inherent value of every member of our community while meeting emerging needs.