Gail Fortes Celebrates 20 years as Executive Director

This month, we proudly celebrate Gail Fortes and 20 years as Executive Director of the YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts! 

For two decades, Gail has led with vision and an unwavering commitment to the YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. Her dedication has touched lives and strengthened our community in meaningful and lasting ways.  Gail has served the YWCA in numerous capacities since 1994 and was promoted to Executive Director in September 2006.

Reflecting on this milestone, Gail shared:

“I am truly honored to serve my community as Executive Director of the YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts for the last twenty years and I look forward to what is to come.”

Her 20 years of leadership represent not only an incredible professional milestone, but two decades of standing up for women, families, people of color, equity, and opportunity throughout Southeastern Massachusetts.

In those 20 years, the YWCA established two key residential housing programs for women and expanded its core services across adult education, health and wellness, residential support, and youth development. YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts has received several awards for its social impact under her guidance, including the 2026 NAACP New Bedford Community Impact Award. In turn, she has recognized the accomplishments of other vital community leaders through establishing the Women of Distinction Awards, celebrating those who work tirelessly to eliminate racism and empower women.

Gail Fortes has served as president of the National Association of YWCA Executives,  has been active in regional leadership, and has served on several Boards of Directors, including Global Learning Charter Public School, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, and Lifestream, Inc, amongst others. She created and hosted Voice of SouthCoast Women on Dartmouth Community Television and is a founding member of the Women’s Alliance of Southeastern Massachusetts.

She has impacted the lives of countless women, girls, and people of color throughout the region through her mentorship, leadership, and service.

Please join us in congratulating Gail Fortes on 20 years of dedicated leadership and service!

Thank you, Gail, for all you have given to the YWCA and our community and for all that is still to come!