UpTogether, a national nonprofit working to change how we address poverty, is proud to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors - Meridee Moore and Jay Chaudhary. Their extensive experience in corporate finance, community advocacy, and public service will bring valuable insights to further UpTogether’s mission of trusting and investing in individuals and families facing financial hardship.

Moore, founder of Watershed Asset Management, has over three decades of experience in corporate finance, investment, and strategic repositioning. She has held leadership roles across several industries, guiding complex investments and driving institutional capital for foundations, endowments, and pension funds. In addition to her finance expertise, Meridee has a history of impactful board service, including roles at Rayonier Inc. and Blackrock Capital Investment Corporation. 

"As someone who believes that people can be trusted to make decisions for themselves and their community, I’m honored to join the UpTogether board," said Moore. "UpTogether takes a simple and innovative approach to lifting families out of poverty, and lifting families out of poverty benefits all of us."

Chaudhary has the unique experience of simultaneously creating policy for and executing a successful state behavioral health strategy. During his five-year tenure as Director of the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction and Chair of the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission, Jay led a significant overhaul of Indiana’s behavioral health system, resulting in a significant jump in the state’s overall mental health rankings. Chaudhary has recently begun a new journey as Senior Fellow for Mental Health and Wellness at the Sagamore Institute, where he focuses on equitable behavioral healthcare access and strategies for improving overall community well-being. 

"My years of public service have taught me that directly investing in people is the best way to create thriving families and communities. I am thrilled to help UpTogether's talented staff and board to help further that mission,” he said.

“We are thrilled to welcome Meridee and Jay to our Board of Directors. Their leadership and passion for UpTogether’s work will help us continue to invest in families and expand our impact on the direct cash movement,” said UpTogether CEO Jesús Gerena.