FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Sandra Wellhausen
Sr. Director Marketing & Development
San Diego Youth Services
619-507-2077
swellhausen@sdyouthservices.org 

 

San Diego Youth Services Welcomes Hanan Scrapper as New Chief Operating Officer 

Scrapper brings more than two decades of leadership experience 

San Diego, Calif. (Nov. 10, 2025) – San Diego Youth Services welcomes Hanan Scrapper as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective Nov. 10. Scrapper succeeds Steven H. Jellá, who is retiring after 25 years of dedicated service to the organization.  

“It’s a privilege to join San Diego Youth Services as the new COO and carry forward Steven’s impactful work toward a brighter future for young people,” said Scrapper. “Serving vulnerable youth through compassionate, holistic support isn’t just part of our mission, it’s the heart of building a more equitable and hopeful future for all young people.” 

Scrapper joins San Diego Youth Services with more than two decades of leadership experience in social impact organizations. Most recently, she led PATH San Diego as Regional Director, advancing its mission to provide equitable housing solutions for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. In that role, she oversaw comprehensive programs designed to help people move from the streets into stable housing and long-term independence.  

“Hanan brings a deep commitment to advancing equity, operational excellence and innovation in service delivery for vulnerable populations,” said Jonathan Castillo, CEO, San Diego Youth Services. “Her career has centered on leading large-scale operations, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, and building cross-sector collaborations to create stronger systems of care, and we are thrilled that she is joining San Diego Youth Services.”  

Driven by a lifelong passion to serve others, Scrapper has extensive experience working alongside marginalized populations to overcome the most severe challenges of homelessness, domestic violence, political persecution and human trafficking. 

Hanan serves on the boards of NAMI and the Regional Task Force on Homelessness and works closely with the San Diego Housing Commission, partner agencies and all levels of local government. 

Known for her calm leadership, empathy and determination, Scrapper brings both experience and heart to San Diego Youth Services as it continues its mission to empower vulnerable youth and create lasting change in their lives.