Brie Anderson, BS
Executive Director
Brie earned a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Penn State University. As an undergraduate student, 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 I 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.
Leigh Ann Farling, BSW
Social Services Director
Leigh Ann holds a Bachelor of Social Work from West Chester University. Before joining the ECHOS team, she worked as a medical social worker for 20 years. She has worked in hospital, home care, and nursing home settings. Leigh Ann’s passion is to help young moms realize their potential, break barriers and achieve their goals.
What is the most rewarding part of working for ECHOS?
The joy in walking along side our clients and being a part of their journey. It’s an honor to know that ECHOS is making an impact on our community!
Heather Zuppa, BS
Housing Case Manager
Heather obtained her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from the University of Massachusetts. Heather’s passion is to help individuals set goals and persevere through obstacles that may avert accomplishments. Heather joined the ECHOS team in 2018 focusing on housing with the Pathways to MyHome Program.
What is the most rewarding part of my job?
Helping clients recognize their potential and providing them with the necessary tools and resources to work towards stability.
Kristin Kurjiaka, MSW, LSW
Social Worker
Kristin received her BSW from Elizabethtown College, her MSW from Columbia University and is a Licensed Social Work Professional (LSW). She interned with ECHOS and then joined the team as a full-time social worker in September 2019. She is passionate about creating social change and advocating on behalf of her clients.
What do I love most about working at ECHOS?
I enjoy the opportunity to help on a variety of levels, from case managing families to leading group sessions as well as working at a macro level to engage the community.
Chrissie Raffensperger, MSW, LSW
Social Worker and Winter Shelter Coordinator
Chrissie earned degrees in Psychology and German from Messiah College, a MSW from Millersville University and is a Licensed Social Work Professional (LSW). Chrissie has a passion and heart for the homeless population. She is the Winter Shelter Coordinator and works with the permanent supportive housing program.
What led me to ECHOS?
I desired to work in a place which not only addresses immediate needs but also implements long term solutions to alleviate poverty. ECHOS embodies this mission.
Katlyn Leid, BSW
Development Coordinator
Katlyn received her BSW with a minor in General English from Millersville University. Katlyn interned in the fall of 2019 and joined the team full time as the Development Coordinator. Katlyn uses her passion for writing and helping others to guide her as she focuses on the sustainability and development of ECHOS.
Why did I choose to stay with ECHOS after my internship?
I never imagined obtaining such a perfect job right out of college! Not only do I get to write what I’m passionate about, but I also get to work alongside an amazing team!
Rachel Barnhart, MA, LPC
Crisis Response Counselor
Rachel earned her Masters in Professional Counseling from Lancaster Bible College and is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Rachel previously worked in outpatient settings and York County Prison as a mental health and drug and alcohol therapist. Rachel’s passion is to work with individuals deemed as the forgotten, broken, and “too much” by society.
What drew me to apply for this position in the Elizabethtown Middle and High Schools?
This position allows me to be a part of the students’ journey in the midst of helplessness and hopelessness. It’s an honor to have the opportunity in partnering with the Elizabethtown Area School District to provide these services to the youth.
Destiny Harbison, BA
ECHOS Americorps VISTA
Destiny joined ECHOS in 2019 as an Americorps VISTA. She is a graduate of Elizabethtown College with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology. Her primary responsibility is to create a Job Readiness program for ECHOS and works extensively with the Elizabethtown Area HUB leadership.
Why do I work for ECHOS?
I jumped for the opportunity to give back to a community which gave so much to me over my 4 years of attending Elizabethtown College.
Beth Dreyer-DeGoede, MS
Administrative Assistant
After being a stay-at-home mom and community volunteer, Beth joined the ECHOS team in September 2018 working part-time as an administrative assistant. She has a passion for helping others behind the scenes. Beth uses her problem solving and organizational skills to help her coworkers.
Why do I work for ECHOS?
ECHOS case workers are amazing people! They go above and beyond to help the people in our community gain stability.
Tana Parrett, BS
ECHOS Bookkeeper
Tana Parrett joined ECHOS in late 2017 as part-time administrative bookkeeper. She is a graduate of Elizabethtown College with degrees in both elementary education and business administration. She taught math, worked in banking and ultimately retired from Elizabethtown College as Director of Business Operations.
What do I appreciate when I come in to the ECHOS Office to do my ‘numbers’ thing?
I value being greeted with a smiling welcome, collaborating with a team of caring, dedicated folks and using my love of spreadsheets in support of the ECHOS mission.
Frances Rubis, MSW
Winter Shelter Staff
Frances earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Elizabethtown College and Master of Social Work degree from Temple University. Fran joined the team in August 2018 and works as a case manager with the Winter Shelter. She enjoys working with the volunteers and serving the guests with dignity and compassion.
What’s the best thing about working at ECHOS?
As an employee of ECHOS I count it a privilege to come together with others to serve my community with dignity and compassion. The best thing is the people.
Theresa Schlaybach
Volunteer Coordinator
Theresa joined ECHOS as the Volunteer Coordinator with a desire to mobilize passionate community partners to help further ECHOS’ mission. Theresa has volunteered in various capacities in her life, at one time doing missionary work in Fortaleza, Brazil. She is pursuing an Associates in Applied Science at Harrisburg Area Community College.
What inspired you to apply for this position with ECHOS?
I personally believe in serving others who have experienced undue hardships in their life. Volunteers are a unique asset to organizations, as they are driven by contributing to the greater good. I am excited to be a part of that and the ECHOS team.
Our Board of Directors
Chair: Chris Rich, LCSW
Vice Chair: Jim McCurdy
Secretary: Jan Wells-Davis
Treasurer: Richard Keesey
Members: Mary Auker-Endres, Rev. A. J. Domines, Kevin Dolan, Esq, James Harkness, Peggy McFarland, Ph.D., LCSW, Tracy Miller, Joe Murphy, Jenn Fields, MSW, LSW, Brie Anderson, Ex-Officio Member