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Erin’s Angels of CNY announced new leadership appointments following the election of officers to its Board of Directors, as well as the addition of new board and staff members to support the organization’s mission throughout Central New York.
Lu Hart has been elected President of the Erin’s Angels of CNY Board of Directors. Hart previously served as Vice President and is an active member of the organization’s Advocacy and Fundraising Committees. A native of the Phoenix area, Hart holds a background in human development and is a graduate of Binghamton University. She has worked with Oswego County Child Protective Services for the past 15 years and currently serves with the Department of Social Services, where she focuses on supporting families and helping them access critical resources.
“As someone who grew up in this community, it is especially meaningful to support families and help raise awareness about food insecurity where it is needed most,” Hart said. “I hope to continue helping provide resources and ensuring families know they are not alone.”
Maryann D’Addio has been elected Vice President of the Erin’s Angels of CNY Board of Directors. D’Addio currently the Fundraising Committee Chairperson, was recently recognized as a Woman of Distinction, reflecting her leadership and dedication to service. With a professional background in medicine, she is deeply committed to providing compassionate, high‑quality care and advocating for individuals in need. Her longstanding passion for helping others supports the organization’s mission to combat childhood hunger throughout the community.
“Erin’s Angels of CNY plays a vital role in ensuring children and families receive the support they need during difficult times,” said Maryann D’Addio, vice president and fundraising chair of Erin’s Angels of CNY. “I am proud to serve in a leadership role with an organization that is deeply committed to addressing childhood hunger and strengthening our community.”
The organization also welcomed Krista Fox as a new member of the Board of Directors. Fox is a human resources professional with Constellation, where she brings experience in employee relations and organizational support. A resident of Oswego County, Fox is a graduate of the State University of New York at Oswego and has demonstrated a strong commitment to community involvement and professional leadership. Her background in human resources and interest in community advocacy align closely with Erin’s Angels of CNY’s mission to support children and families across Central New York.
“I am honored to join the Board of Directors of Erin’s Angels of CNY and to support an organization that is making a meaningful difference for children and families in our community,” said Krista Fox. “As someone committed to serving others both professionally and personally, I look forward to contributing to a mission that ensures children have access to the resources they need to thrive.”
The board also appointed Cherrie Bardot, LCSW‑R, as Advocacy Chairperson. Bardot is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years of experience serving children, adolescents and families across Central New York. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Syracuse University.
“Advocacy is a critical part of ensuring children and families receive the protection and support they deserve,” said Cherrie Bardot, advocacy chairperson for Erin’s Angels of CNY. “I am honored to take on this role and to help elevate awareness around the issues affecting children while working toward meaningful, lasting change in our community.”
Erin’s Angels of CNY also announced the hiring of Brittney Benedict as its new Marketing and Program Coordinator. A resident of Pennellville for eight years, Benedict has more than a decade of experience in the human services field and over five years of experience working with nonprofit organizations.
Benedict’s personal experience navigating mental health challenges and family hardships has shaped her understanding of the importance of community‑based support and access to resources. Her professional background includes community outreach, volunteer coordination, client support, administrative assistance, and mission‑driven marketing. She has worked with organizations including ARISE/EFR, PPL, Goodwill of the Finger Lakes, and Oswego County Opportunities, where she coordinated referrals, supported community programs, and developed outreach materials.
Benedict earned her Associate of Science in Human Services, magna cum laude, from Onondaga Community College and is currently continuing her education toward a Bachelor of Social Work degree at Keuka College.
“Erin’s Angels of CNY represents the power of community and the importance of ensuring families have access to the support they need,” said Brittney Benedict, marketing and program coordinator for Erin’s Angels of CNY. “As a parent and someone who has personally relied on community resources, I am honored to contribute my experience and passion to an organization that truly puts children and families first.”
As part of its continued growth and commitment to strong governance, Erin’s Angels of CNY is actively recruiting individuals to serve as Treasurer, additional Board Members, and committee members for the Fundraising Committee, Advocacy Committee, Scholarship Committee, Finance Committee, and the organization’s Advisory Council.
Community members interested in nonprofit leadership, finance, advocacy, fundraising, or supporting children and families are encouraged to get involved. For more information about Erin’s Angels of CNY or to inquire about board or committee opportunities, visit www.erinsangels.com.
Erin’s Angels of CNY, founded in 2017, provides weekend meal bags to every student in need in the Phoenix Central School District and has an outreach program to help other school districts and community programs. While Erin’s Angels currently serves children in the Phoenix Central School District, the long-term vision is to expand their reach and provide food to kids experiencing food insecurity across Central New York, ensuring that no child goes hungry. For more information or to donate, visit www.ErinsAngels.com.
