Brie earned a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Penn State University where she completed a legislative fellowship with the PA House of Representatives in the Aging and Older Adult Services Committee. This experience inspired her interest in pursuing a Master of Public Administration from Penn State University. Brie began her professional experience in direct service but transitioned to macro-focused work as a medical advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual violence and as an executive director of a non-profit senior community center.
What do you envision for the future of ECHOS?
As ECHOS continues to grow, I envision an organization that addresses the holistic needs of individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. Our future will include a balance of stabilizing our existing programs and expanding our community partnerships and services to encompass the complexities of creating a stable, thriving community.
Justin attained a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Millersville University. During his studies, he completed internships focused on supporting youth, adults, and families in clinical, home, and community settings. Prior to joining the ECHOS team, Justin was a strong advocate and leader working at a non-profit where he supervised multiple mental health residential programs across Pennsylvania. Additionally, he has experience in business and has served as a missionary. He has a strong passion for helping others, a commitment to growth, and a firm belief in recovery.
Why did you choose to work at ECHOS?
I chose to work at ECHOS because it gave me the opportunity to make a lasting impact on people and families in the community while also utilizing my experience to help grow an already strong organization.
Andrea earned her master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Pittsburgh and her bachelor’s degree in English from West Virginia Wesleyan College. During her many years in public library management, Andrea gained experience in event planning, fundraising, and working with volunteers. She’s also volunteered for several non-profit community groups in the Harrisburg area. As a self-proclaimed people person, Andrea is excited to work to build relationships between ECHOS and the greater community in order to support our mission.
Why did you choose to work at ECHOS?
I chose to work at ECHOS because I’m able to put my varied personal and professional experience to work in order to make a lasting impact on my hometown.
Kayla has worked in social services since graduating with her Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice and Minor in Psychology from Penn State Harrisburg Campus in 2015. She has worked in the housing field on many levels from shelter support, programs operations, and continuum of care coordination. Kayla is passionate about women’s rights, trauma informed care and client center advocacy. She like many homeless organizations and collaborators believes that homelessness should be rare, brief, and non-recurring when possible.
Why did you choose to work at ECHOS?
I value working for agency that sees individuals experiencing homelessness as human beings and treats them with dignity and value in our community. I’m excited to work for an agency that includes offering services to prevent households from EVER entering homelessness. If I can prevent any person from having to face a night on the streets, that’s a huge victory.
Maria earned her degree in Psychology, with a double minor in history and gender studies from Kutztown University in 2023. She has experience working and volunteering with inner-city youth in Philadelphia and has worked as the shelter advocate for ECHOS emergency winter shelter. She is passionate in providing personalized care to best suit the needs of each and every individual.
What led you to work for ECHOS?
After working with ECHO during the winter and witnessing the incredible work from staff and volunteers, I knew I wanted to play a part in advocating for the success of our clients.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Bloomsburg University in 2016, Hailey started her social services career as a Psychiatric Technician and then went on to be a Community Mental Health, Forensic Case Manager in Dauphin County. Some of her other professional experiences have included working for Non-profits within various mental health and community based residential services such as Crisis Centers, Residential Rehabilitation, & Personal Care Homes. Hailey is passionate about client advocacy, resource coordination, & trauma-informed care. In addition, Hailey has served as a volunteer for suicide prevention and education in the Central PA area since 2019.
What inspired you to apply for this position with ECHOS?
I am extremely excited to join the ECHOS team and to be able to have a continuous influence on the local community through growing our shelter program. I believe ECHOS holds the ability to empower staff and volunteers to create insurmountable change and hope in the Northwestern region of Lancaster County!
Hope joins ECHOS with nine years of experience in Administrative duties with a focus on bookkeeping, banking, and finance. Due to complete her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work in the Fall of 2023, Hope aims to apply her knowledge in administration and finance to helping those within her community. After moving to the Elizabethtown Area almost three years ago, Hope learned about the needs of the community and has been passionate in her ability to effect change ever since.
What’s the best thing about working for ECHOS?
The people here truly care about the community that they serve and that shows with every decision and connection made.
Carrie Stricker earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at Catawba College in Salisbury, NC. She spent many years organizing and supervising Community Arts and Recreation programs in a variety of locations since that time.
Carrie also had an opportunity to live with her family in Kitale, Kenya and work with children who are homeless. While in Kenya, Carrie developed a commitment to improving community resources including orphan care, education, and community outreach. Upon coming to Elizabethtown, Carrie has become aware of the community needs in her hometown and how she can do her part to help.
Why did I choose to work at ECHOS?
I enjoy meeting people and understanding their circumstances through value and dignity. Working at ECHOS you see a team of people who do the same thing. The ECHOS team works hard to make a difference in our community to eradicate homelessness, and I am so happy to be a part of that team.
Natalie earned her bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Millersville University. With a background in education, special events and marketing, she is excited for her new role with ECHOS where she can combine her past experiences to help develop and support our organization and in turn, our community. Natalie’s passion is to serve the under-represented by helping them find stability and providing resources to help them thrive.
Why do you work for ECHOS?
As a long-time resident of Elizabethtown, I have always had an interest in serving the town I live in. I’m proud to work for a team that continually advocates for community members who need assistance in reaching stability.
Jill joins ECHOS with more than six years of experience in office administration, reception, banking, bookkeeping, and nonprofit work. When she’s not greeting clients, she enjoys time with her family, two children, and traveling. Jill looks forward to growing in her role, learning about the agency, and being a warm, smiling presence for all who come to ECHOS.
Why did you choose to work for ECHOS?
I care about the community, the people in it and helping to provide services and a warm and welcoming environment for those who may need it most.