katal newsletter – may 4, 2018

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In this issue:

Thank you, Melody!


thank you, melody!

It’s a big day for us all at Katal.  One of our co-founders, Melody Lee, is transitioning out of the organization.

As a co-founder and member of the Leadership Team, Melody helped structure and build Katal from scratch and into a formidable organization for social justice. As Katal’s Director of Strategy & Campaigns, she spearheaded the organization’s efforts to develop innovative solutions situated at the intersections of both public health and public safety. She has served in key leadership roles on a range of projects across the field. Her work to build and launch the LEAD National Support Bureau and the Albany LEAD program have spurred new approaches to safety in municipalities, and led to hundreds of people being diverted away from jail and into programs and services. She managed the field team in the campaign to close Rikers Island Jail Complex, which forced the NYC mayor to make closure official city policy.  She led reform efforts in Albany, and trained members, leaders, and advocates about the inner workings of Albany, about how to run effective lobby days, about acting together to build power. We could go on….

Melody has been an anchor for Katal’s work and growth, and the organization would not be here today without her. On behalf of Katal’s staff, board, and members, we express our deep thanks and appreciation to our co-founder for helping to bring this little engine that could, Katal, into being. It has been an honor and privilege to work with Melody, and we’re deeply grateful for the chance to have built an organization with her.

Please join us in thanking Melody and in wishing her the absolute best in the next phase of her journey!

— Lorenzo and gabriel

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