StepUp Wilmington announced on Friday the hiring of Teresa Wolf as the organization’s next CEO and executive director.
Wolf will become the third director in the nonprofit’s 21-year history, succeeding Will Rikard who has served as StepUp’s executive director since 2015, according to a news release issued Friday. StepUp announced its search for a new leader this summer after Rikard told the board he intended to resign by the end of the year.
Wolf most recently served as executive director of the Bob Barker Company Foundation where she demonstrated strong, strategic leadership and a commitment to impactful nonprofit work, the news release stated. Established in May 2009, the Bob Barker Company Foundation grants financial support to programs aimed at reducing recidivism.
To ensure a smooth leadership transition, Wolf and Rikard will work in close partnership over the coming months, according to the release. The collaboration will allow Wolf to immerse herself fully in StepUp’s mission, programs and community relationships.
In the release, Wolf highlighted her excitement about taking on the new role.
“I am honored to join StepUp Wilmington and to work alongside such a passionate team dedicated to empowering individuals through meaningful employment opportunities,” she stated. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation that Will and the board have established and expanding our reach to help more people to achieve their career and life aspirations.”
“Teresa Wolf’s experience and energy are exactly what StepUp needs as we begin this next chapter,” StepUp Wilmington board president Riley Stephenson stated in the release. “Her dedication to community-driven impact and her proven ability to lead and innovate align perfectly with our goals for the future. Teresa is ready to jump in, and we’re thrilled to have her at the helm.”
StepUp Wilmington consistently serves 400 individuals annually, helping youth and adults secure around 200 job placements each year. The organization offers a range of programs for all ages, including Jobs Week, CareerUp, NextUp, Future Leaders Restorative Opportunities Internships and a robust job placement division called Beyond Talent.
Founded in 2003 by Rev. Don Skinner as Phoenix Employment Ministry, StepUp Wilmington has evolved over the years to meet the employment needs of the Wilmington community.
