Meet Our New Executive Director
After waving a fond farewell to a beloved leader, Nita Lynn, at her retirement on June 30th, First Step is excited to formally introduce the new Executive Director, Elisia Anderson.
Anderson comes with over 12 years of leadership experience at various northwest non-profits and holds a degree in Psychology from The Evergreen State College.
“I find people fascinating and inspiring. My career choices have often been driven by a deep curiosity about resilience and how to create opportunities for people to build their ability to bounce and thrive despite the challenges, stressors, and trauma that they have and will face. This has led me to work with Veterans living with PTSD, children and adults with disabilities, and supporting women to reach economic stability,” shares Anderson.
When she started in March of 2020 as Program Manager, Anderson immediately joined Nita in navigating First Step programs through the COVID pandemic, leading efforts that distributed over $296,000 in support to families in need in a variety of formats.
“During my first conversation with Nita, I was enthralled with the vast fabric that makes up the First Step suite of programs.” Elisia and the team at First Step have rolled up their sleeves and worked to ensure that programs are continuously serving families’ ever-changing needs.
Named Executive Director as of July 1, 2022, Anderson quickly and seamlessly stepped into her role.
“I am looking forward to working with the board on a new strategic plan that will guide our work in our post-pandemic future. It is First Step’s 50th anniversary year and I am excited to begin the process of planning for the next 50 years. I have a passion for listening to people and finding collaborative solutions to help each of us meet our full potential.”
She goes on to say, “I am honored to lead an agency that fundamentally believes in the strengths of parents. My hope is that all children and families in our community will have the support they need to thrive, and I look forward to our agency continuing to bring these services and supports to the North Olympic Peninsula.”
First Step welcomes Elisia Anderson, Executive Director, and wishes her all the best in her new role.
