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PROVIDENCE — Barbara Haynes, the Executive Director of McAuley Ministries, has announced that she will retire from her position in Spring of 2026. Haynes has led the organization since August 2018, and her retirement caps an accomplished and diverse career spanning more than four decades in Rhode Island. Guided by her leadership, McAuley experienced substantial program expansion, fiscal health and capital upgrades. A succession committee is underway to lead the executive search for her replacement.
McAuley Ministries, based in Providence, is a nonprofit organization sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. Rooted in the ideals of founder Catherine McAuley, the organization provides essential resources—including food, clothing, shelter, health services, and emotional guidance—to the community’s most vulnerable members.
“There is no question McAuley Ministries is in the strong position it is today thanks to Barbara’s leadership and her unwavering commitment to ensuring the most vulnerable in our community are not left behind,” said Scott Camirand, chair of the McAuley Ministries Board of Trustees and retired regional manager at Amica. “Her legacy is one of strengthening our organization and positioning us for the future by positively impacting thousands of lives with unmistakable and genuine compassion.”
During Haynes’ tenure, annual fundraising has doubled, allowing McAuley House and McAuley Village to see significant expansion in staffing and programming that includes new partnerships with agencies aligned with their mission. Increased workforce development training for Village residents, two distinct food pantry programs, and expanded emergency rental and financial aid programs highlight additional offerings added at McAuley during Haynes’s time as Executive Director.
“I am so grateful to have spent these years at McAuley Ministries. The mercy and compassion I have witnessed here have warmed my heart—Rhode Islanders are remarkable in their kindness and care,” said Haynes. “Those who work in Rhode Island’s nonprofit sector are truly special people, and it has been an honor to carry on with the work of the Sisters of Mercy with a talented, dedicated and deeply human staff.”
The McAuley Ministry Board of Trustees is grateful to Haynes for her innumerable contributions and looks forward to identifying and working with the next compassionate and dedicated leader who steps up into the role of Executive Director.
Beyond addressing immediate survival needs, McAuley Ministry advocates for systemic changes to better serve those in crisis and fosters a caring environment where individuals can find meaningful connection. Every interaction is guided by a commitment to treating people with respect and dignity, aiming to build self-esteem and encourage long-term self-sufficiency. These efforts are anchored in core values of charity and justice, as informed by Gospel teachings.
