Sharon Miracle Announces Retirement After Years of Transformative Leadership at Yakima Valley Community Foundation

Sharon Miracle Announces Retirement After Years of Transformative Leadership at Yakima Valley Community Foundation

Board Announces Erin Black as Incoming President & CEO.

YAKIMA, WA — The Yakima Valley Community Foundation announced that President and CEO Sharon Miracle will retire after a distinguished tenure leading the organization. The Board of Directors has selected Erin Black, a seasoned nonprofit leader known for her work formerly as the Executive Director of the YWCA Yakima and most recently as the leader of Memorial Foundation in Yakima, as the Foundation’s next President and CEO.

“Sharon Miracle has been the heart and soul of this Foundation and with an excellent team she’s built a community-centered culture,” said Ignacio Marquez, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Her vision, her dedication, and her deep love for the community have shaped everything we do. We are profoundly grateful for her service and celebrate this milestone with her.”

Under Miracle’s leadership, the Yakima Valley Community Foundation grew its contributions and funds by 67% to over $100 Million and increased annual granting from $2.4 million per year to an annual average of $4.4 million with more than $9 million granted in 2025. In addition to providing philanthropic support, the organization has been a key partner helping to organize and lead efforts to improve Yakima County resident’s access to childcare, broadband, bilingual health information and services, local news, higher education and career training, shelter, food and housing. The Foundation also expanded its Jewett Youth Leadership Program from serving Yakima high school students to include students from throughout the Yakima Valley. The program which recruits and trains young philanthropists is provided $100,000 to grant annually. “Miracle’s tenure has been defined by a commitment to equity, community partnership, and building an organization capable of serving the Yakima Valley for generations,” states Marquez.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve this community through the Foundation,” said Sharon Miracle. “I leave knowing that the Foundation is strong, our mission is clear, and we are in extraordinary hands with Erin’s leadership, and she’ll be surrounded by a competent staff and an excellent Board of Directors. I am excited for the next chapter.”

Erin Black joins the Foundation having served as the CEO at Memorial Foundation in Yakima, where she led several major initiatives that strengthened the organization’s impact and expanded health services across the Yakima Valley. She oversaw and guided more than $20 million in capital campaigns to increase access to care, in addition to sustaining annual philanthropic support of approximately $3.5 million for health programs, services, and upgraded equipment. Black fostered a strong, engaged board and built a collaborative, high-performing team culture. Under her leadership, Memorial Foundation broadened its philanthropic reach, strengthened community partnerships, and enhanced its capacity to support innovative health initiatives across the Yakima Valley. Memorial Foundation will continue its vital and impactful work in the community, well-positioned for continued success and lasting impact.

Following several months with help from an executive search firm, the Board selected Black as the leader best positioned to build on the Foundation’s momentum.

“I am humbled and energized to step into this role,” said Erin Black. “Sharon has built something remarkable, and I am committed to honoring that legacy while helping the Foundation grow its impact for all who call the Yakima Valley home. My first priority will be listening — to staff, to donors, to grantee partners, and to the communities we serve.”

The leadership transition is planned for the end of July.