Honoring Leadership That Moves a Movement Forward
When we talk about building safer, more respectful communities, we are talking about leadership that shows up, listens, and takes action.
That is why we are proud to celebrate Yolanda Edrington, CEO of Respect Together, as she is honored at the 37th Annual Tribute to Women of Excellence Awards hosted by YWCA Greater Harrisburg.
This recognition reflects more than a moment. It reflects decades of dedication to advancing equity, safety, and respect for all.
A Career Rooted in Community
For more than 20 years, Yolanda has been a driving force in connecting the Harrisburg community to life-changing resources and support. She began her career focused on HIV/AIDS prevention and has spent her life ensuring that people have access to the care, dignity, and protection they deserve.
Her work has always been grounded in one core belief: communities are strongest when everyone is safe, supported, and valued.
Leading a National Movement
As CEO of Respect Together, Yolanda leads both Pennsylvania Coalition to Advance Respect and National Sexual Violence Resource Center under one unified organization, Respect Together, to prevent and end sexual violence.
Her leadership centers survivors. It prioritizes trauma-informed practices. And it builds partnerships that push beyond awareness into real, systemic change.
Under her guidance, Respect Together has expanded collaborations with major partners like Uber, Lyft, and the NFL, helping bring conversations about safety, consent, and prevention into spaces that reach millions of people.
This is what movement leadership looks like. It meets people where they are and pushes systems to do better.
Grounded in Service
Yolanda’s commitment does not stop at her role. She continues to serve her community through board leadership with Alder Health Services and the Historic Harrisburg Association, and through national volunteer work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the Match Group Advisory Council.
Her work is both local and national. Strategic and deeply personal.
Because at its core, this work is about people.
A Leader, A Builder, A Force for Change
Over the past two years, Yolanda has stepped into the role of CEO, delivered her first keynote address, and continued to grow both personally and professionally. She welcomed her fourth grandchild, sent her youngest off to college, and even mastered baking her first loaf of sourdough.
These moments matter. They remind us that behind every leader driving change is a person rooted in family, joy, and community.
Why This Recognition Matters
Honoring community members at the Tribute to Women of Excellence Awards is a recognition of the impact they have made and continue to make.
But it is also a recognition of the movement Yolanda leads.
A movement that believes survivors.
A movement that demands accountability.
A movement that knows prevention is possible.
At Respect Together, we are proud to stand alongside Yolanda as she continues to lead this work forward.
Because when leaders like Yolanda are recognized, it sends a clear message.
This work matters.
Survivors matter.
And the future we are building together is one where safety, respect, and dignity are not optional.
They are the standard.
