Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) today celebrated a moment of transition and gratitude, announcing that Veronica Thames will step down as Chief Executive Officer, effective October 9, to become CEO of Dogs Inc. The MCF Board of Directors expressed deep appreciation for Thames’ three years of leadership and reaffirmed its full commitment to a smooth, thoughtful transition — one that keeps donors, nonprofit partners, and community partners at the center of MCF’s work.
During her tenure, Thames led MCF through its transition to becoming an independent foundation, built an exceptionally strong team, and deepened relationships with donors and community partners in ways that will benefit Manatee County for years to come.
“We are deeply grateful for Veronica’s leadership and dedication over the past three years and the many ways she has positioned MCF for its next chapter,” said Dannie Sherrill, Chair of the MCF Board of Directors. “The Board is focused on ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition while continuing to serve our community with the same care, integrity, and commitment that have guided MCF for nearly three decades.”
The Board is proud to announce that Yolanda Mancha, MCF’s Vice President of Philanthropy, will serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer. Mancha brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership experience — spanning philanthropy, fundraising, strategic planning, donor engagement, and community partnerships — and a deep, personal familiarity with MCF, its donors, and its community.
“Yolanda knows MCF, our donors, and our community well, and we have great confidence in her leadership during this transition,” said Amanda Horne, Vice-Chair of the MCF Board of Directors.
That confidence reflects the strength of the Foundation as a whole. Nearly 30 years after its founding, MCF stands on a stable and thriving foundation — built through disciplined stewardship, deep donor relationships, and an exceptional team. The Board and staff enter this transition energized, united, and fully committed to the work ahead.
“I am honored to help lead MCF during this transition,” said Mancha. “Our community, our donors, our nonprofit partners, and the many people who have invested in Manatee’s future remain at the center of our work. I look forward to working closely with the Board, staff, donors, and community partners to build on MCF’s strong momentum and continue moving this important work forward.”
The Board and staff remain committed to ensuring continuity across MCF’s donor services, grantmaking, leadership convenings, and community partnerships, and are actively planning a thoughtful transition that will allow the Foundation to continue its important work without interruption. In the days ahead, the Board will also form a Search Committee to begin identifying MCF’s next permanent CEO. Throughout that process, MCF’s mission, priorities, and commitment to its donors and community partners remain unchanged.
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Manatee Community Foundation connects the generosity of donors with the needs of the community to build a better Manatee County. For more than 25 years, the Foundation has been a trusted partner in philanthropy — bringing together individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and local leaders to address complex challenges and create lasting impact. Through strategic grantmaking, community leadership, and meaningful partnerships, Manatee Community Foundation strengthens connections and resources to help our community prosper. For more information, visit ManateeCF.org.
Veronica Thames is the new CEO of Dogs Inc beginning October 9th.
Yolanda Mancha will take over the position of Interim CEO at Manatee Community Foundation effective October 9th.