Bloom Again Foundation Announces Leadership Transitions, Welcomes New Officers

Local nonprofit Bloom Again Foundation has announced new leadership appointments to its board of directors, marking a significant transition for the nonprofit dedicated to supporting economically vulnerable women facing medical crises.

Monique Stennis, a communications professional with expertise in diversity and inclusion, has been named co-president after two years on the board. Stennis previously chaired the Governance Committee and has served with the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma, the African American Board Leadership Institute, and the Academy of Science & Engineering, a former Los Angeles charter school. At the African American Board Leadership Institute, she helped elevate brand visibility and alumni engagement through strategic digital and media campaigns that generated more than $25,000 in earned media coverage on ABC7 and social platforms.

Carolyn Gilbert, founder of CarolynsCreation, joins as treasurer in her first year of service. Gilbert brings entrepreneurial experience and a personal story of resilience, having turned her breast cancer recovery into a creative business crafting handmade thank-you cards for those who supported her along the way.

The changes follow the departures of longtime board members Rita Boccuzzi, who served nine years as treasurer, and Rosetta Henderson, who retired after three years as co-president and five years as member-at-large.

“Rosetta’s resourcefulness, attention to detail, and commitment have left an indelible mark on the organization,” said Co-President Carolyn Sims. “Her compassion and unwavering advocacy for women in crisis will always be a part of our foundation’s story. While we bid farewell to both Rita and Rosetta, we welcome Monique and Carolyn to their positions on the board. We look forward to the next chapter of our organization.”

Boccuzzi, a Los Angeles–based financial coach and speaker, continues her mission to educate and empower five million women and families around money. Henderson, formerly of Southern California Edison, concluded her board service as part of her retirement.

Together with Sims, Secretary Victoire Prothro, Communications Chair Marisol Barrios Perez, APR, and Strategic Partners Program Co-Chair Joyce Harris, the board remains focused on advancing Bloom Again Foundation’s mission.

In July, the board approved a 15-month capacity-building phase to strengthen infrastructure and sustainability. Sims said the initiative reflects a commitment to ensuring long-term impact for women living at or near the poverty line during health challenges.

“As we continue to build a sustainable future, BAF expresses deep gratitude to our donors, strategic partners, corporate sponsors, and funders for their continued belief in our purpose,” Stennis said. “Their commitment makes it possible for us to stand alongside working women facing the most difficult moments of their lives, offering not only financial relief but dignity, stability, and hope.”

“We are committed to sharpening our priorities, enhancing our programs and elevating the foundation’s visibility to better serve the women who depend on us,” Sims said.

Founded in 2008 by Dr. Lois Frankel, Bloom Again Foundation provides rapid-response financial assistance, education, and resources to economically vulnerable working women when faced with medical emergencies. Its mission centers on supporting women living at or near the poverty level who are at risk of homelessness due to income loss during a health crisis. With a clear, purpose-driven mission, Bloom Again Foundation envisions a world in which there is health equity in the healing process for all women. More information is available at BloomAgain.org.