Fred Finch Youth & Family Services Restructures Leadership for Enhanced Care Across California

Leadership Reorganization at Fred Finch Youth & Family Services

In an effort to enhance its capacity to provide quality support services for families and youth across California, Fred Finch Youth & Family Services has announced a comprehensive restructuring of its leadership. This strategic reorganization is designed to make the organization more responsive and agile in its mission to serve the vulnerable youth demographic it represents. The effective date of these changes is August 5, 2025.

New Executive Team Structure

Fred Finch Youth & Family Services has introduced several internal leaders into key Executive Team positions. Among the newly appointed leaders is Tim Trickett-Robles, who has been designated as the Chief of Staff. He will work closely with the executive team to streamline operations and support staff effectively. Dr. Teresa Chapa, holding a PhD and an MPA, has been appointed as the Vice President of Government Affairs and Select Projects, further ensuring the organization aligns its initiatives with state policies and funding opportunities.
Desiree Kane, LCSW, will take on the role of Vice President of Clinical Affairs, emphasizing high-quality clinical services, while Laura McClarin, LMFT, steps up as Vice President of Program Operations, charged with overseeing the various programs offered by Fred Finch to ensure they meet the needs of the communities served.

The existing leadership remains strong, with Sandra Dalida continuing her role as Chief Financial Officer and Daniela Ogden as Vice President of Development, ensuring continuity in financial and operational management.

Newly Appointed Division and Clinical Directors

To bolster support for staff and enhance program delivery, Fred Finch has made key appointments in its Division and Clinical Director roles. Joslin Herberich, LCSW, has been appointed as Director of Clinical Services Professional Development, focusing on improving clinical education and skills. Roger Daniels, LCSW, will serve as Division Director for Housing and Transitional Age Youth. Maria Luna, LMFT, BCBA, will take charge as Division Director of Residential Services, ensuring a supportive environment for residents.
Nydia Mershani, LMFT, has been tapped as Division Director for School and Community-Based Case Management, while Nicole Austin, LMFT, will oversee Division Director Family-Based Services, combining services that support families in various settings.

There is one additional position, the Director of Clinical Services for Continuous Quality Improvement, that is currently open and under recruitment. This indicates Fred Finch's commitment to maintain an infrastructure that promotes ongoing quality assurance in its operations.

Rationale Behind the Changes

Tom Alexander, President and CEO of Fred Finch, expressed that the new organizational structure was specifically designed to better support each program. “Our goal is to ensure that our operations are more nimble and our leadership is aligned with our long-term goals,” he stated. He also emphasized that these changes are a reflection of the organization's values—equity and transparency—as well as the dedication of its staff to meet the organizational mission.

This reorganization is seen as a crucial step in maintaining high-quality, evidence-based practices for the diverse populations they serve. By enhancing the clinical and operational framework, Fred Finch aims to effectively address challenges such as trauma, poverty, and homelessness that their clientele often face.

Commitment to Community Engagement

Fred Finch Youth & Family Services has a rich history of over a century in serving youth and families, focusing on providing culturally responsive and trauma-informed care. The organization understands the complexities that its clients face and aims to empower these individuals and families through comprehensive mental health and social services. For a deeper dive into the leadership structure and other initiatives, interested readers can visit their leadership page.

As they embark on this new chapter, Fred Finch remains dedicated to ensuring access to compassionate, high-quality support systems that foster resilience and positive outcomes for individuals in need across California.