As Senior Vice President, Community & Player Programs for the National Basketball Association, Kathleen Behrens oversees a group that manages all of the NBA's programs that coordinate league and player social responsibility efforts, support player growth and development, and enhance the marketing opportunities for current and former players.

Behrens joined the NBA in September 2000 as Vice President, Community Relations, overseeing all of the NBA’s public service initiatives, community outreach, and employee volunteer programs.

Prior to joining the NBA, Behrens served as Executive Director of New York Cares, a nonprofit organization that mobilizes volunteers to help New York City’s neediest residents. During her tenure, both the volunteer corps and revenue base more than doubled, making New York Cares one of the most respected and recognizable nonprofit organizations in the city.

Before joining New York Cares in 1995, Behrens served in the administration of former New York Governor Mario M. Cuomo, and was the Executive Director of the Friends of Cuomo Campaign Committee during the 1994 Governor’s Race.

Behrens serves on the Board of Directors for New York Cares and the March of Dimes.

A native of the Bronx, N.Y., Behrens graduated from the University of Hartford. She currently lives with her family in Westchester County, N.Y.