The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
District Council of Sonoma County

St. Vincent de Paul Sonoma County is pleased to announce the appointment of Lauren Taylor as its new Executive Director, bringing a dynamic and strategic leader to guide the organization’s next chapter of service, impact, and strengthened organizational capacity in the community.

 

Taylor joins St. Vincent de Paul with a strong background in leadership, organizational development, and human (and community) -centered service. Known for her systems-thinking approach, she brings a deep understanding of how complex challenges such as housing instability, poverty, and access to services—are interconnected. She approaches leadership through a strategic, forward-thinking lens, focusing on long-term, sustainable solutions rather than reactive responses. She brings education around social determinants of health, trauma-informed practice and human-centered design.

 

“I believe meaningful change happens when we recognize the interconnectedness of people and systems,” said Taylor. “My goal is to build on the organization’s strong foundation while working collaboratively with staff, board, and partners to strengthen our broader community systems—ensuring we are thoughtful in our approach, responsive to rapidly changing needs, and focused on solutions that complement and advance the work already happening across our community. In doing so, we can create lasting, meaningful impact for those we serve.”

 

Taylor also brings a deep appreciation for the diversity of lived experiences within the community. Her work reflects a commitment to meeting individuals where they are, recognizing that each person’s journey is shaped by a unique set of circumstances and ensuring that services are both compassionate and responsive.

 

Taylor currently serves as Director of Permanent Supportive Housing and Resident Services at Burbank Housing, where she has played a key leadership role in advancing affordable housing, supportive services, organizational strategy, and community partnerships. Over the course of her career, she has led initiatives focused on housing stability, resident well-being, leadership development, and systems change, while building strong relationships across nonprofit, government, and philanthropic sectors.

 

Taylor recently completed an intensive master’s degree in leadership, with a focus on change management and organizational development. She has also been recognized with multiple leadership awards, reflecting her commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community impact. She is also a graduate of the Santa Rosa Metro Chamber’s Leadership Santa Rosa program.

 

“Lauren brings a unique combination of compassion, strategic thinking, and collaborative leadership,” said Jim Nantell, President of the Board of Directors for St. Vincent de Paul Sonoma County. “Throughout the search process, we were impressed not only by her deep understanding of the challenges facing our community, but also by her ability to balance mission-driven leadership with thoughtful planning, partnership building, and organizational stewardship. We are excited to welcome her to St. Vincent de Paul and look forward to the impact she will have on our organization and those we serve.”

 

Taylor said she is honored to join an organization with such a longstanding commitment to helping Sonoma County residents in need.

 

“St. Vincent de Paul has a remarkable legacy of serving individuals and families with dignity, compassion, and respect,” said Taylor. “I am honored to join this dedicated team and look forward to working alongside staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to build upon that legacy. Together, we will continue to strengthen our impact, respond to evolving community needs, and create opportunities for hope and stability for our neighbors.”

 

For more than 65 years, St. Vincent de Paul Sonoma County has served as a vital resource for individuals and families experiencing poverty, homelessness, food insecurity, and other hardships. Through the dedication of its staff, volunteers, supporters, and community partners, the organization continues to provide critical services while helping individuals build pathways toward greater stability and self-sufficiency.

 

Taylor also serves on the Board of Directors for Generation Housing, further reflecting her commitment to advancing housing solutions and strengthening communities across Sonoma County.

 

For More information contact Jim Nantell, President, Saint Vincent de Paul District Council of Sonoma County at 650-274-9941 or Cljm1970@gmail.com.