Sarah Ponitz: Executive Director
Woodstock, IL – Sarah Ponitz, who has dedicated her career to serving domestic violence survivors, people experiencing homelessness, at-risk seniors, and abused and neglected children, has been appointed Executive Director of Turning Point, an agency that establishes safe environments for families in McHenry County to diminish the devastating effects of domestic violence. Ponitz brings a strong track record of leadership and accomplishments as a passionate advocate for the welfare of the most vulnerable and at-risk adults, seniors, children and families.
Most recently, Ponitz was Executive Director of P.A.D.S. (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) of Elgin, an agency that meets the needs of homeless individuals. During her tenure, she increased grant funding by 120%; secured numerous new local, state and federal grant opportunities; increased the agency’s overall budget by over 200%; secured the largest donation in the organization’s history; and created a new day program.
Prior to P.A.D.S of Elgin, Ponitz was Executive Director of Senior Care Volunteer Network in Crystal Lake, an organization serving low-income and at-risk seniors. Among her many accomplishments, she received the coveted Toyota Star Award for Excellence, which provided national recognition for the agency’s senior transportation program.
Since 1981, Turning Point has worked diligently to develop innovative programs using domestic violence laws to increase the quantity and enhance the quality of services available to clients. It is a comprehensive domestic violence agency offering victim services and is the only secure emergency shelter in McHenry County. Turning Point’s programs and services reach all socio-economic, educational, and cultural populations in the county. In the last year, the organization provided programs and services to 1,588 women, children, and men. For more information, visit https://www.turnpt.org/
