Leadership in Los Angeles

Bill Thompson brings nearly 20 years of leadership in youth-focused, mission-driven organizations. He began his work with Young Storytellers as a volunteer in 2006, referring to his time as a mentor as “the best hour of my week.” He served as Executive Director from 2008 to 2023, leading the organization through a period of significant growth and sustainability, and since 2024 has served as President and Head of Growth, guiding efforts to expand its impact regionally and beyond.

Throughout his career, Bill has been driven by a belief in the transformative power of young people and the importance of creating spaces where they can be seen, heard, and supported. His leadership is rooted in collaboration, community, and a deep commitment to equity - values that align closely with City Year’s mission to ensure all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Bill holds an MFA from Yale University’s School of Drama and a BFA from the University of the Arts. He has been a Fellow with City Scholars for over a decade, serves on the Policy Council for Create CA, and has completed leadership development programs with partners including Bridgespan, Executive Service Corps, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. He is also the recipient of the Judge’s Award for Innovation at the Social Venture Partners Fast Pitch and the Megan G. Cooper Leadership Award from Executive Service Corps.

His wife, Amy, is an LCSW who works for continuation high schools within LAUSD and he is the proud father of two sons, Theo (15) and Quinn (11).