A Proven Leader in Youth Advocacy
A passionate and experienced leader, Katharine brings more than 25 years of service in programs that support children, youth, and families. Her return to CASA is especially meaningful. Early in her career, she served as both a Case Coordinator and a volunteer for a CASA program. That experience left a lasting impression and inspired her long-term commitment to advocating for youth impacted by the child welfare and juvenile justice systems.
“CASA has been in my heart for a very long time,” Katharine shared. “I’m thrilled to be back.”
As Executive Director, Katharine is focused on growing the organization to meet the evolving needs of children and youth in the foster care and juvenile justice systems, whatever those needs might be. She is excited to connect with community partners and supporters to strengthen the reach and impact of Child Advocates, with a focus on helping young people achieve the best possible outcomes for their futures.
Her professional background is extensive. Katharine has led teams, developed employee wellness and professional development systems, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and collaborated with colleagues and community leaders to build innovative, mission-driven programs. She is deeply committed to ensuring that services are not only accessible, but also meaningful, relevant, and rooted in equity.
In her first few months, she is prioritizing time to get to know Child Advocates’ dynamic team, stakeholders, and partners who make the organization’s work possible. She is also taking a close look at the organization’s systems and finances, while laying the groundwork for a strategic plan to guide the agency into the future.
Katharine’s Vision for Child Advocates of Contra Costa County
Looking ahead, Katharine’s vision is clear: to grow the organization and its volunteer pool so that every child who wants or needs a CASA volunteer, a tutor, or other essential services that will help them achieve their goals and give them the best opportunity for positive, healthy outcomes, can access it. Her goal is to give each young person the strongest possible opportunity for a safe, healthy, and meaningful future.
Outside of work, Katharine loves spending time with her family camping, regardless of the season or the weather. She enjoys walking her dog in the beautiful areas of our community, dabbling in crafts, and recharging through meditation and reflection. Though she jokes about not having any hidden talents, she admits she enjoys karaoke nights, organizing just about anything, and brushing up on her outdoor survival skills.
“I’m truly honored and humbled to have been selected to lead Child Advocates of Contra Costa County,” she said. “Together with our highly skilled team of staff and volunteers, I’m confident we’ll carry this exceptional program into its next chapter of service to the children who need us most.”
And we at Children’s Advocates are truly honored you’re here!