Dear Friends and Supporters of Genesys Works,

I am writing you to announce that 16 years after starting and growing Genesys Works and proudly seeing our mission come to life, I will be stepping aside as Chief Executive Officer in the first quarter of 2019. After that time, I will remain active on our National Board. In the 16 years I have served in this role, I have continually been amazed and humbled by the commitment of our wonderful partners, donors, and friends, including you.

My leadership transition affords an exciting time of opportunity for both myself professionally, and for Genesys Works. It is because of our strength as an organization and my confidence in our leadership team that I am comfortable with the timing of this transition.

I have had the privilege of leading our dedicated staff, who work tirelessly each day to ensure that our students have the support and guidance they need to forge new pathways to postsecondary and professional success. I see this transition as a chance to help kickstart continued growth and effectiveness of Genesys Works’ vital mission. By bringing in someone with a new and unique skillset, vision and energy, I believe the organization can achieve even higher levels of scale and impact.

Since our inception in 2002, I have met and grown close to countless young people who saw the Genesys Works opportunity as a way to turn their dreams into a reality. During my tenure, the Genesys Works team has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments, including providing nearly 5,000 students in underserved communities life-changing work experiences that put them on the path to economic self-sufficiency and I look forward to watching many more students experience the same under new leadership.

I truly believe Genesys Works works because of you. Your championing of our organization has been a crucial factor in our success. During this important phase in our organizational history, I hope you continue to remain engaged and enthusiastic about our mission and feel assured that your relationship with Genesys Works is greatly valued.

Our National Board is currently finalizing the hiring of a national executive recruitment firm, and I will assist in transitioning my successor into their new role, eventually acting as a thought partner for implementing our future strategic plans. We will keep you apprised of our progress in finding the right person for the role. As for me, I am excited to have the ability to explore a few new entrepreneurial opportunities I’ve been thinking about.

I appreciate your support during this time of exciting transition, and truly believe that with our current strong infrastructure and strategic plans in place, the addition of a new CEO will amplify our future success. Thank you again for your continued support of our students and the mission of Genesys Works.

Sincerely,

Rafael Alvarez
Founder & CEO, Genesys Works