In episode 25 of the Community Rec Podcast, Lucria Ortiz, the CEO of YMCA Southcoast, shares her unconventional path from public defender in the Bronx of New York City, to nonprofit leadership in community recreation.
She explains how her courtroom experience sharpened her commitment to service and ultimately led her into fundraising and leadership roles within the YMCA. Central to her journey is intentional mentorship — both receiving it and actively seeking mentors whose careers she admired, building what she calls a personal “board of advisors.”
Looking ahead to 2026, she outlines three strategic priorities for YMCA Southcoast. Long term, she’s leading a major capital campaign to renovate the New Bedford branch, honoring the organization’s legacy. For younger professionals, her advice includes believing leaders when they see potential in you, networking across the movement, staying open to relocation, and being deliberate about mentorship and growth opportunities.
Enjoy!
Top Takeaways
- Unconventional path, same core mission.
Ortiz moved from Bronx public defender to YMCA leadership, driven by a consistent desire to serve and “see people’s full humanity.”
- Boards as a gateway.
Service on school and nonprofit boards opened her eyes to broader community impact and led her to the YMCA.
- Mentorship as a catalyst.
A CEO explicitly telling her, “You could be a CEO in the Y,” was a defining, confidence-shaping moment.
- Career growth through connection.
National projects, fundraising, community impact, membership and multicultural leadership development expanded her network and visibility.
- Intentional mentorship approach.
Great mentors ask questions, challenge thinking and don’t force their views; she deliberately seeks such guides and meets with them regularly.
- Strategic focus on teens from 3 to 7 p.m.
Programming aims to provide every teen with at least one caring adult and structured leadership and character development during high-risk hours.
- Food + wellness integration.
A large farm and multiple food pantries position YMCA Southcoast to address nutrition, obesity and chronic illness by treating food as “medicine.”
- Member experience priority.
She is committed to reimagining what it feels like to walk into the Y and how members connect and grow.
- Legacy and future.
A major capital campaign to renovate the New Bedford branch supports both long-term impact and a legacy dating back to 1857.
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