ACCESS Board Selects Kellie Battaglia to Lead Agency

MEDFORD, Ore. (Feb. 17, 2026) — ACCESS, the Community Action Agency for Jackson County, has appointed Kellie Battaglia as its next Executive Director, effective March 1, the organization announced Monday.

Battaglia has been with ACCESS since 2018 and most recently served as Co-Interim Executive Director, guiding the nonprofit through a transitional period. During her tenure, she strengthened internal operations, supported staff and programs, and maintained continuity of services as community needs increased, officials said.

“Kellie brings a rare combination of strategic insight, operational experience, and deep commitment to our mission,” said Lucinda Brophy, ACCESS Board Chair. “The Board has seen firsthand her ability to lead with clarity, integrity, and heart. We are confident in her vision and in her ability to guide ACCESS into its next chapter.”

Founded in 1976, ACCESS is part of a nationwide network of more than 1,000 Community Action Agencies, created under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 to fight poverty at the local level. CAAs act as both service providers and strategic coordinators, addressing immediate needs such as food, housing and utility assistance, while also promoting long-term goals including rental housing stability, homeownership and financial literacy.

ACCESS operates a dual approach to its mission, delivering direct services while also serving as a grant-maker, providing public funds to local nonprofit partners. The agency maintains rigorous oversight and compliance standards to ensure high-quality service delivery, officials said.

The agency is governed by a Tripartite Board of Directors, a structure required of all CAAs, with one-third representing low-income community members, one-third elected officials or their representatives, and one-third from local organizations and stakeholders. The system is intended to ensure accountability, community input, and transparency in the use of public funds.

Battaglia brings more than 20 years of experience in housing and human services policy, program administration, and operational leadership. She has worked across nonprofit organizations and municipal governments in Colorado, Montana and Oregon, managing community-based programs and leading teams providing direct support to vulnerable populations.

“I’m honored by the Board’s trust and proud to continue serving ACCESS and our community in this role,” Battaglia said. “Every day, our staff, volunteers, and partners show up with compassion and determination to ensure our neighbors have access to food, warmth, and shelter. As we look ahead, we will continue strengthening our organization while responding boldly and collaboratively to the growing needs of Jackson County.”