Brie Anderson, MPA
Executive Director
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 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.
Justin Benedict, MS
Programs Director
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 I 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.
Natalie Dixon, BA
Development Director
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 I 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.
Chrissie Raffensperger, MSW, LSW
Community Housing and 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.
Corrie-Laryssa Agim, Social Services AA
Intake Coordinator
Corrie comes with experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. She is working towards completing her Bachelor of Social Work at Lancaster Bible College. She reminds us that it is never too late to learn, it is never the time to give up, and there is never a wrong time to help someone become the best version of their greatness.
Why do I work for ECHOS?
I work for ECHOS because I am excited to be part of a team that exhibits dedication to addressing and eradicating homelessness and applies efforts to better the community!
Suzanne Petersen, BS
Campus Housing Coordinator
Suzanne earned her BS in Human Services from Elizabethtown College. She has experience working in case management and behavioral health. Sue has been a great advocate for children, families, and those with disabilities. She believes that with individualized resources and support, anyone can reach their full potential and achieve their goals.
What inspired you to apply for this position with ECHOS?
ECHOS is an organization that was developed as result of people wanting to help people within their own community, recognizing a need, and finding solutions. I am excited to be a part of an organization that values the importance of community.
Kayla Gower, BS
Enrichment Center Coordinator
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 I choose to work at ECHOS?
I value working for an 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/s from having to face a night on the streets, that’s a huge victory!
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.
Hillary Abbott
Administrative Assistant
Hillary has a passion to help people in need. She enjoys working firsthand with the community and giving back to others. She has served in various volunteer positions throughout the community and hopes to help our organization grow by supporting the staff to carry out quality services with compassion.
What’s the best thing about working at ECHOS?
The best thing about working at ECHOS is being part of a team of people who truly want to make a difference in the lives of others while treating everyone with kindness and without judgement.
Our Board of Directors
Chair: Chris Rich, LCSW
Vice Chair: Jim McCurdy
Secretary: Jan Wells-Davis
Members: Deb Brockman, Rev. A. J. Domines, Kevin Dolan, Esq, James Harkness, Peggy McFarland, Ph.D., LCSW, Tracy Miller, Joe Murphy, Jenn Fields, MSW, LSW, Deb Riley, Brie Anderson, Ex-Officio Member