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Author: Risa B. Hoag, Editor
I'm writing a spotlight series on people making a difference in the Hudson Valley. See the link at the bottom of this article if you would like to recommend someone.
Leadership often shows up quietly: in meeting rooms, community gatherings, policy discussions, and late-night emails fueled by purpose. Few embody this steady, impact-driven presence more fully than Adam Rabinovitch, Executive Director of the Westchester Children’s Association
Appointed in July 2025, Adam succeeded longtime Executive Director Allison Lake. With more than 30 years of experience across the private and public sectors, Adam brings a coveted blend of strategic vision and hands-on leadership to his role. Before joining WCA, he served as Executive Director of COPE Foundation in Melville, Long Island, where he supported children and families coping with the loss of a loved one.
At Westchester Children’s Association, he focuses on advancing opportunities for children, youth, and families by strengthening systems, shaping policy, and building partnerships that drive lasting change.
“I’ve learned that the most important opportunities come from relationships, curiosity, and a willingness to take on hard problems,” he says. “It’s all about good people.”
Leading With Purpose
Throughout his career, Adam has cultivated expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, and cross-sector collaboration. He is known for building mission-driven organizations rooted in child advocacy, equity, and data-informed policy change.
Yet he measures success less by titles and more by impact. “One piece of advice that shaped me was to focus less on chasing positions and more on doing meaningful work with people I respect,” he reflects.
This philosophy has guided him through complex challenges and into leadership roles where purpose outweighs prestige. For young professionals, his message is reassuring and grounded:
“Don’t feel pressure to have everything figured out. Choose environments where you can learn quickly, work with people who challenge you, and contribute to something bigger than yourself. Careers are built through momentum and purpose, not perfect plans.”
A Global Perspective on Community
Adam’s commitment to equity and dignity extends beyond the Hudson Valley. He previously served as Board Chair of Babies and Mothers Alive, a nonprofit dedicated to improving reproductive, maternal, and newborn health in Uganda.
The organization partners with local communities and health systems to reduce maternal and infant mortality, expand access to care, and support women through initiatives such as peer support groups and emergency transportation for mothers in labor.
“It’s about dignity, equity, and saving lives where the need is greatest,” he says. “That work reminds me how powerful strong systems and partnerships can be, anywhere in the world.”
This global experience continues to shape his local leadership, reinforcing his belief that thriving communities are built through trust, access, and shared responsibility.
Finding Balance Through Music and Connection
For Adam, work-life balance isn’t a fixed formula. It’s an ongoing recalibration. “The work is mission-driven, so it’s important to stay energized,” he explains. “I try to be intentional about making time for relationships, music, and moments that help me reset.”
Music plays a central role in his life. Whether he’s playing guitar, attending live shows, or sharing playlists with friends and family, he sees music as a bridge between people.
“It creates connection without an agenda,” he says. “Just discovery and joy.”
Growth, Reflection, and Resilience
Like many high-achieving leaders, Adam admits he sometimes overthinks decisions.
“When I care deeply about the outcome, I can get stuck in the details,” he says. “I’m learning to trust my instincts and remember that progress is usually better than perfection.”
When he feels stuck, he steps back. Conversations with loved ones, moments of reflection, and creative outlets help him regain perspective. “I’ve learned that inspiration comes from connection and reflection, not forcing a solution,” he notes.
His favorite films and books mirror these values. The Great Escape speaks to him for its themes of teamwork and perseverance, while Way of the Peaceful Warrior resonates for its focus on mindfulness, discipline, and inner strength.
Looking Ahead
Personally, Adam hopes to continue learning, mentoring others, and staying grounded in the values that brought him to this work. Professionally, he aims to expand the reach of Westchester Children’s Association and deepen partnerships that influence both policy and practice.
In his role, he leads WCA’s efforts to build on the organization’s long-standing legacy of research, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration, helping to shape a more equitable future for children across the county.
Through his leadership at Westchester Children’s Association (www.wca4kids.org), he continues to work toward policies and collaborations that strengthen communities across Westchester and the Hudson Valley.
Above all, his vision of success is rooted in family and service. “I want to be remembered as a loving and present father to my daughter,” he says. “And as someone who showed up with care, integrity, and commitment.”
Fun Facts About Adam Rabinovitch
Beyond boardrooms and policy briefs, Adam brings curiosity and creativity into every corner of his life.
- Bucket List Adventure: He dreams of ziplining over the Andes Mountains, drawn to the idea of pushing past fear to experience the world from a completely new perspective.
- Alternate Career: In another life, Adam would be a freeform radio DJ, curating music, telling stories, and creating spaces for connection through sound, all in the spirit of discovery and joy.
Contact Information
To learn more about the Westchester Children’s Association, you can contact Adam here:
Email: arabinovitch@wca4kids.org
| Phone: 914-282-9429
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