Little Flower announces Corinne Hammons as Executive Director

Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York (Little Flower), one of the largest and most respected agencies providing critical programs and services to children, families and adults with developmental disabilities in New York City and across Long Island, announced today that Corinne Hammons has been named to succeed Grace G. Lo Grande, LMSW, MPA, as Executive Director of the organization. Lo Grande is retiring in June after 19 years of devoted service to Little Flower, and a total of 49 years working in child welfare. Hammons will assume her responsibilities in May allowing for a smooth transition.

Keith Fell, President of the Little Flower Board of Directors, said “I have worked alongside Grace Lo Grande for many years and respect her reputation for excellence. She has been a tremendous leader for Little Flower, navigating difficult waters in bringing the agency to new heights and we wish her a well-deserved and well-earned retirement. I look forward to continuing, in her spirit, alongside Corinne Hammons, who is bright, energetic and enthusiastic. I am positive she will navigate the challenges we face and take full advantage of all opportunities that come up in the years to come.”

Currently Executive Vice President of Community Development Corporation of Long Island, Hammons has a strong background in leadership, management, budgetary responsibility and working with individuals in crisis and vulnerable populations. She is one of a group of young leaders on the rise in the nonprofit sector and was a recipient of Long Island Business News ’40 Under 40’ awards.

“I look forward to continuing the legacy of the Little Flower leaders that have gone before me, especially Grace Lo Grande, as we honor her on her retirement,” said Hammons. “In partnership with Little Flower’s committed Board, talented staff, dedicated supporters, and innovative collaborators, I am eager to begin working together to implement a vision for the future of the organization for the benefit of the children and families we serve.”

About Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York (www.littleflowerny.org): For over 85 years Little Flower has been guided by the mission to provide hope and help to thousands of people every year. In 2014 alone the agency managed the successful adoption of 60 children into new families, served over 900 children in loving foster families, cared for 137 children in the Residential Treatment and Respite Centers, helped 132 children return to their own families, assisted 44 young adults to begin life on their own, and helped over 350 adults with developmental disabilities to lead more rewarding lives.