Tops in Business

Yolanda Robano-Gross was named one of Long Island’s Top 50 Women In Business by Long Island Business News. The Woodmere resident currently serves as chief executive officer of Options for Community Living (Options). “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 making new friends and to establishing relationships to pursue increased opportunities for Options’ future.”

Options operates residential programs for adults recovering from mental illness and affordable supported housing and care coordination services for more than 1,500 Long Islanders annually. The agency’s myriad 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 $19 million, personnel management, program development and fundraising. She reports Options’ Board of Directors.

Robano-Gross has more than 20 years of prior executive level experience within the health care industry. She holds a Master’s degree in Health Care Administration, a Master’s degree in Social Work and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work as well as a certificate in Executive Education, Nonprofit Leadership from The Fordham Center for Nonprofit Leaders.

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 $4 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 17 percent increase in the agency’s employees. Options additionally 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.

Long Island Business News presents the Top 50 Award to Long Island women in recognition of their leadership achievements in business and the not-for-profit world.