Press Releases

Executive Director Yolanda Robano-Gross Named One Of Long Island’s Top 50 Women In Business

Options Executive Director Yolanda Robano-Gross was named as one of Long Island’s Top 50 Women in Business by Long Island Business News. “I am honored to be chosen as one of LI’s Top 50 Women. It is very humbling to be part of this extraordinary group of women leaders,” said Robano-Gross. “I look forward to establishing relationships to pursue increased opportunities for Options’ future.”

Launched in 2000, the Top 50 Women in Business program recognizes Long Island’s top women professionals for business acumen, mentoring and community involvement. The program’s honorees represent the most influential women in business, government and the not-for-profit fields.

Options operates residential programs for adults recovering from mental illness and affordable supportive housing and care coordination services for more than 1,600 Long Islanders annually. The agency’s programs assist individuals with psychiatric disabilities and other chronic health conditions including HIV/AIDS. Robano-Gross is responsible for oversight of all agency affairs, including: fiscal management of an annual budget of more than $17.7 million, personnel management, program development and fundraising. She reports to Options’ Board of Directors.

Her leadership has resulted in the development and expansion of programs as well as employment opportunities. Under her guidance, Options’ annual operating budget additionally has increased by $2.3 million as government contracts have been renewed at increased levels and new programs with new funding streams have been established. Additional job opportunities have been created resulting in a 26 percent increase in full- time employees. Options, furthermore, has been recognized for providing outstanding services in audits conducted by the NYS Office of Mental Health, the United Way of Long Island and the Long Island Health Homes.