Lesly Melendez currently serves as the Deputy Director for Groundwork Lawrence (GWL) after returning to the organization as the Community Engagement Director in the fall of 2014. Lesly had previously worked for GWL from 2004 – 2007 managing outreach, projects and events. She was promoted to Deputy Director in November 2016. During her years away from GWL Lesly worked for Comcast and partnered with GWL to lead Earth Day/Comcast Cares Day for five years. Lesly's passion and commitment to the environment and her community have made her a great re-addition to the GWL family.

As a lifelong resident of the City of Lawrence, she has always been passionate about serving the community. Lesly has served on numerous volunteer boards as well as on the City’s Planning Board initially as a voting member, later as Chair, and most recently as the Chair of the Licensing Board. She continues to be involved in community initiatives through her professional and her personal life. Lesly brings her love of writing, community and civic engagement and her passion for social justice to the GWL Family.

Melendez completed a certificate program at the Institute for Non-Profit Management and Leadership, now Institute for Nonprofit Practice, through the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service at Tufts University in 2016.