Brenda Osuch serves as the Executive Director of Illinois Joining Forces (IJF), where she leads the organization’s mission to connect service members, veterans, and their families with the resources they need, precisely when and where they need them. With over 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Brenda is an accomplished leader known for blending mission-driven values with innovative business strategies.

 

Brenda joined IJF in 2020 as Chief Operating Officer before advancing to Executive Director. Under her leadership, IJF has significantly expanded its reach and impact. Brenda has spearheaded successful fundraising, grant, and contract initiatives, fostered vital collaborations with service providers, and broadened the organization's services to include statewide convenings and resource fairs, outreach, extended call center hours, and implementing a comprehensive case management model.

 

Brenda has held diverse leadership positions within the non-profit and social service sectors. She notably served as the Chief Operating Officer at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington, DC, and dedicated more than a decade to operational roles at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Brenda's professional background also includes extensive social service experience, including roles as an addiction counselor, clinical case manager, and health educator.

 

Brenda excels in fostering collaboration among all organization members to achieve business and financial objectives, streamlining processes, enhancing productivity, and implementing technology solutions. She is known for her innovative, hands-on approach to developing solutions and her ability to motivate teams to achieve personal and professional success.

 

Brenda's educational background includes earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rutgers University, a Master's degree in Human Resources from Hawaii Pacific University, and a Life Coaching Certification from IPEC. Her personal connection to the military community, as the daughter of a U.S. Veteran and a military spouse for over a decade, has deepened her passion for service and understanding of the unique challenges faced by military families and the importance of their support.