By Richard L. Gaw
Staff Writer

Leah Reynolds, one of Chester County’s leading stakeholders in the areas of housing, food distribution and human rights, has resigned as the Chief Executive Officer of Kennett Area Community Service (KACS).

Her role will be temporarily and voluntarily filled by KACS Board member Carrie Freeman, who formerly served as the CEO of the United Way of Southern Chester County for 20 years.

“Carrie’s compassion, operational insight, and dedication to our community’s well-being make her an ideal leader for this time,” said Ana Amarante-Craig, Esquire, president of the KACS Board of Directors. “Our mission continues with strength and focus.”

Reynolds joined KACS as its Executive Director in July of 2019, and over the course of the next five years, she led the agency through a debilitating pandemic, a fire that severely damaged KACS’ headquarters in Kennett Square, facilitated emergency housing efforts for displaced residents and positioned KACS as a regional leader in addressing food insecurity, housing instability and poverty in southern Chester County. During that time, with the help of her staff, Reynolds strengthened KACS’ programming, expanded community partnerships and became a vocal advocate for individuals and families who face complex challenges related to food insecurities, the lack of affordable housing and access to legal rights. 

According to its most recent Annual Impact Report, KACS provided $2.2 million in various services throughout 2024 and supported over 6,000 individuals by delivering over 1 million pounds of food. In the second year of its affordable housing program, the agency assisted 42 unhoused families in finding stable housing, continued community education efforts and saw over 50 individuals graduate from the organization’s community education workshops. 

Upon the announcement that she was named the organization’s CEO last December, she said, “I’m honored to continue leading KACS as we work to meet the needs of our neighbors and strengthen the fabric of our community. This title change reflects not only the incredible work of our team and volunteers but also the growing role KACS plays in addressing systemic issues and empowering families in our region.”
To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email [email protected].