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LifeStream, Inc. one of the largest human services providers in southeastern Massachusetts, has named Bonnie Mello President and Chief Executive Officer, it was announced by Janice Robbins, LifeStream’s Chairman of the Board. Ms. Robbins also announced that long-time President and Chief Executive Officer John Latawiec retired on August 11, 2019.
Ms. Mello has served as LifeStream’s Chief Operating Officer since 2014. In this position, she supervised employee relations and staff development for 550 employees, disability services, clinical services, quality assurance and therapy services for the organization’s 29 community residences, four day programs, and Adult Foster Care. Ms. Mello joined LifeStream in 1993 and previously served as Senior Vice President of Disability Services. She is a graduate of Bridgewater State College and resides with her family in Berkley, Massachusetts.
“We are extremely pleased with Bonnie’s appointment to President and CEO,” said Ms. Robbins. “Our search committee met with many strong candidates over the past several months. Bonnie’s experience, skillset, and knowledge of this organization and the services it provides really stood out.”
Ms. Mello takes over the position previously held by John Latawiec, who announced his plans to retire earlier in the year. Latawiec joined LifeStream as the Director of Residential Services in 1988 and was named President and Chief Executive Officer in 1997. During his tenure LifeStream greatly expanded its programs, services and employee base to become New Bedford’s sixth largest employer. In 2017 LifeStream received the South Coast Chamber of Commerce Apex Business Award for the Large Business category and was recognized for its role in fueling the local economy, providing meaningful employment to hundreds of area residents, and improving the quality of life for many individuals and their families.
“Under John’s stewardship, LifeStream flourished and grew into a highly respected human service organization,“ noted Ms. Robbins. “He never lost sight of their mission to provide quality care and foster independence of the individuals they support. John’s integrity and commitment to LifeStream’s guiding principles have been key to its success. We are extremely grateful for his service and wish him well going forward.”
LifeStream was founded in 1976 by a group of concerned parents seeking better care for their adult children with disabilities. Today it is one of the largest employers in New Bedford with 550 employees. It has an operating budget of $27 million which is funded primarily by government agencies at the federal and state levels. Core services include: Residential, Day Support, Community and Family Support, Employment and Training, and Clinical Services.
