LEWISTON — The Abused Women’s Advocacy Project has announced that its Executive Director, Kate WilliamsPalmer, retired on July 3.

With her AWAP service as a capstone to a long career in human services, WilliamsPalmer will end a three-year tenure which was marked by successful organizational changes and improved services for those affected by abuse in Franklin, Oxford and Androscoggin County.

Throughout that period, WilliamsPalmer worked to enhance the professionalism of the organization, improve the evaluation process of outcomes with clients and oversee major and necessary physical improvement in the shelter increasing accessibility to women and children.

“Kate’s accomplishments have created more efficient operations throughout the agency, which have enhanced quality of care to those in the community who struggle against domestic violence,” said one board member.

“The decision to retire is bittersweet,” said WilliamsPalmer. “I couldn’t be more proud of the board and staff for the accomplishments over the past few years and feel that the decision to leave now is based on their commitment to build on these accomplishments.”

The AWAP Board of Directors Executive Committee has made necessary transition plans including assigning interim responsibilities to Suzanne Benoit, LCSW, who has been a consultant for the organization for several years. In addition a search committee has been formed to identify a new chief executive for the organization.

The mission of the Abused Women’s Advocacy Project is to support and empower those affected by domestic violence and to engage the community in creating social change in Androscoggin, Oxford and Franklin County. Free, confidential help is available 24 hours a day by calling 1-800-559-2927.