Donna Woods has spent her life rooted in Philadelphia, a city that has shaped both her personal journey and professional purpose. A graduate of Northeast High School, she went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology from PennWest Edinboro University, laying the groundwork for a career centered on service.
“I think I’ve always wanted to help people,” Woods said of her career. “I’ve just done it in different capacities.”
Early on, Woods worked in the mental health and intellectual disability field as a case manager, supporting individuals navigating complex challenges. Motivated to deepen her impact, she returned to nursing school.
After enrolling at Eastern Center for Arts and Technology and becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), she bridged her knowledge of mental health with physical care. This holistic approach became a definite thread throughout her career.
Woods joined the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office in 2018 at the start of District Attorney Larry Krasner’s administration, starting as a victim witness coordinator in the Municipal Court Unit. In that role, she provided direct support to victims, including coordinating court notifications, conducting lineups, and offering advocacy during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives. Her leadership abilities quickly became evident, which led to her assuming the position of assistant supervisor within the Victim Services Unit.
She continued to rise through the ranks over time, serving as assistant director and interim director of the DAO’s Victim Witness Services Unit before ultimately being named Director of Relocation in July 2024. Across each position, Woods has remained focused on strengthening services for victims while mentoring staff and navigating the evolving needs of the office.
As Director of Relocation, Woods leads a small, dedicated team responsible for assessing safety and facilitating emergency relocation for victims across Philadelphia. Her unit reviews referrals from agencies citywide, collaborates closely with prosecutors and law enforcement, and conducts thorough safety and eligibility assessments to ensure individuals are protected during periods of acute vulnerability.
“This work is definitely not for the weak,” she says of her unit’s activities. “But it’s certainly rewarding because we can see the good that’s being done in the communities around us.”
Outside of the office, she prioritizes balance: spending time with her two children and seeking out joyful, restorative experiences that counterbalance the intensity of her job.
Whether it’s helping Philadelphia residents with mental illnesses and other disabilities, or assisting people who are experiencing one of the most challenging, difficult times of their lives, Woods life and career are powerful examples of service