YouthLink Hires Rich Melzer as Chief Executive Officer
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The YouthLink Board of Directors today announced that Rich Melzer will be joining the organization as its Chief Executive Officer on Monday, February 21. YouthLink, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit providing supportive resources to teens and young adults experiencing homelessness, has been serving the community for more than 45 years. Melzer, a south Minneapolis native, brings more than 15 years of nonprofit management and youth-centered leadership to the organization. In his most recent roles he has held successive executive positions, including as Executive Director at YMCA of the North, the second-largest YMCA in the United States.
“Rich is an exceptional communicator with extensive experience in financial and team management and fundraising,” said Steve Cramer, Chair of the YouthLink Board of Directors and President/CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council and Downtown Improvement District. “With his leadership, we look forward to an exciting new future building on our success in serving young people experiencing homelessness.”
In addition to his past roles at the YMCA, Melzer played professional basketball in several countries and brings a multi-cultural worldview to his work. “It’s an honor to be joining an organization with such an impressive track record of impacting the lives of some of the most vulnerable members in our community,” said Melzer. “I’m always striving to be an advocate for young people and ensure they have the resources they need to succeed.” Melzer will take over from Michelle Basham, who has served as YouthLink’s Interim Executive Director since the retirement of Dr. Heather Huseby in September 2021. He was chosen by the YouthLink Board of Directors after a nationwide search conducted by local firm Cohen Taylor.
YouthLink operates a drop-in center in downtown Minneapolis where young people ages 16-24 can access basic needs and operates two housing programs (Nicollet Square and Downtown View). The organization serves youth who are disconnected from families and other social support, have endured traumatic and adverse childhood experiences, have long histories of street life, exploitation and racism and are disproportionately represented by BIPOC youth (90% of youth served).
Thank you Youthlink for providing much needed services for youth in our community! After witnessing first hand how Rich has touched the lives of many youth during his time at the YMCA there is no doubt he will do amazing things as the Chef Executive officer of Youthlink!
Congratulations Rich!
Best of luck to you Rich!! You will do great things!
Welcome to the Youth Service Network, Rich! The Bridge for Youth and I look forward to working with you and continuing a strong partnership with YouthLink. Warmly, Lisa Mears, Executive Director
What a find. He is exactly what Youth Link needs to be successful and grow. Enjoy Rich because he has a unique and valuable reputation that I’m sure will attract a lot of positive attention from other interested organizations and businesses. He’s going to help and I’m hearing he’s already having an impact. Congrats to Youth Link and Rich.