NANUET, N.Y. — People to People, Rockland County’s largest food assistance organization, has announced the appointment of Sharon Mellis as its new chief executive officer, marking a leadership transition for one of the county’s most prominent nonprofit organizations.
Mellis succeeds Diane Serratore, who has led the organization for nearly two decades. The leadership change comes as People to People continues to address food insecurity and provide support services to thousands of residents throughout Rockland County.
Founded in 1974, People to People operates from its headquarters in Nanuet and serves individuals and families facing economic hardship. The organization provides food assistance, clothing, seasonal programs, school supplies, holiday support, and other services designed to help residents meet basic needs.
According to the organization, People to People serves thousands of Rockland County residents annually through a network of volunteers, donors, community partners, businesses, religious organizations, and local governments. Its food pantry is considered the largest in Rockland County and plays a significant role in the region’s charitable support system.
Mellis brings experience in nonprofit leadership and community engagement to the position. Organization officials said her background includes strategic planning, fundraising, operational management, and collaboration with community stakeholders. Her appointment follows a search process conducted by the organization’s board of directors.
In announcing the leadership transition, People to People officials highlighted the organization’s ongoing mission of assisting residents experiencing food insecurity and financial challenges. Demand for food assistance programs has remained elevated in recent years as many households continue to face rising costs associated with housing, groceries, utilities, and other essential expenses.
Food insecurity remains a concern throughout the Hudson Valley and New York State. Nonprofit organizations such as People to People often serve as a resource for individuals and families who may not qualify for government assistance programs or who require additional support beyond available public benefits.
The organization relies heavily on volunteer participation and charitable donations to maintain its programs. Throughout the year, People to People conducts food drives, fundraising campaigns, and community outreach efforts designed to increase awareness of local needs while securing resources for residents seeking assistance.
Under Serratore’s leadership, the organization expanded many of its programs and strengthened partnerships with schools, businesses, faith-based organizations, healthcare providers, and local government agencies. During her tenure, People to People also navigated increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many families turned to community food programs for assistance.
Board members expressed appreciation for Serratore’s years of service while emphasizing their confidence in Mellis’ ability to guide the organization through its next chapter. The transition is expected to focus on maintaining existing services while exploring opportunities to strengthen community partnerships and expand support for residents in need.
As the new CEO, Mellis will oversee daily operations, fundraising initiatives, program development, volunteer engagement, and long-term strategic planning. She will work alongside staff members, volunteers, donors, and community partners to continue the organization’s mission of serving Rockland County residents.
People to People officials said the organization remains committed to addressing hunger and helping individuals and families achieve greater stability. The nonprofit plans to continue its core programs while adapting to changing community needs and economic conditions.
The leadership transition comes as nonprofit organizations across the region continue to face increasing demand for services while balancing fundraising challenges and operational costs. Community leaders say partnerships among charitable organizations, businesses, government agencies, and residents remain critical to meeting those needs.
With new leadership in place, People to People enters its next phase while continuing a mission that has served Rockland County residents for more than 50 years.