From Safe Berks
Safe Berks is excited to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors, along with its Board Executive Leadership Team, as the organization continues its commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault throughout Berks County.
The Safe Berks Board Executive Leadership Team includes:
- Rachael Romig, President
- Liz Ware, Vice President
- Dr. Sara George, Secretary
- Ronald Rutkowski, Treasurer
Together, the executive team will help guide the Board of Directors in advancing the mission, strategic priorities, and continued growth of Safe Berks.
Safe Berks also extends its sincere appreciation to Heather Adams for her leadership and dedication during her two years as President of the Board of Directors. Throughout her tenure, Adams provided valuable guidance and support to the organization and its mission. Although her term as President has concluded, she will remain a member of the Safe Berks Board of Directors for one additional year, allowing the organization to continue benefiting from her experience and commitment.
Safe Berks also welcomes Tara Kozak, Paola Mateo, and Blake E. Reed as new members of the Board of Directors. Each brings professional expertise, community experience, and a strong commitment to the organization’s mission.
Tara Kozak, Vice President, Employee Engagement and Training Director, First Trust Bank, brings extensive experience in employee engagement, professional development, and organizational leadership.
Paola Mateo, Youth Programs Manager, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, joins the Board as well as serving on the Safe Berks Development Committee. Her experience working with youth and families, combined with her existing involvement with Safe Berks, brings an important perspective to the organization’s leadership.
Blake E. Reed, Sanky Communications, has been actively involved with Safe Berks through service on both the Development and Facilities Committees. Reed brings experience in fundraising, donor engagement, and nonprofit development to the Board.
“We are excited to welcome Tara, Paola and Blake to our Board and to have Rachael, Liz, Sara and Ronald serve in these executive leadership roles,” said Beth Garrigan, CEO of Safe Berks. “Each brings valuable experience, perspective and a genuine commitment to our community. We are also incredibly grateful to Heather for her leadership over the past two years and pleased that she will continue serving alongside us. Together, this Board will play an important role as Safe Berks continues strengthening partnerships, expanding awareness, and ensuring survivors have access to the resources and support they need.”
Safe Berks Board of Directors
Executive Leadership
- Rachael Romig, President
- Elizabeth (Liz) Ware, Vice President
- Dr. Sara George, Secretary
- Ronald Rutkowski, Treasurer
Board Members
- Heather Adams
- Erin Beebe
- Kourtney Bernecker
- Dr. Noahleen Betts Kebbay
- Jennifer (Jen) Deck
- Tara Kozak
- Paola Mateo
- Dr. Todd Migliaccio
- Bethany Miller
- Laura Morgan
- Sarah Phillips Klein
- Juliette Piersody
- Blake E. Reed
- Ruth Sano
- Nicole Yuengel
If you or someone you know needs Safe Berks services, please call the free, confidential 24-hour hotline at 844-789-SAFE (7233) or text SAFE BERKS to 20121.
About Safe Berks
Founded in 1976, Safe Berks began when twelve women in Reading came together to provide hotline support, counseling, and shelter for survivors of domestic violence.
Originally known as Berks Women in Crisis, the organization became Safe Berks in 2016 to reflect its commitment to serving all survivors.
Today, Safe Berks provides free and lifesaving services, including emergency shelter, counseling, legal and medical advocacy, and prevention education, working to build a community free from violence.
You Might Also Like
