Youth Advocate Services
YAS_Leaders_AnitaGodfrey
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DIRECTOR OF

FOSTER CARE


Anita GodfreyMPA, LSW

she / her / hers

A 25-year social services veteran, Anita ensures that YAS’ foster care department maintains compliance with OAC rules, that our foster children are provided with the safest home possible and that we have a supportive and clinically sound staff for our foster parents and children.

DIRECTOR OF

​BEHAVIORAL HEALTH


Ann HemphillLISW-S

she / her / hers

With 30 years of experience in the social work field, Ann has been a driving force behind the development and initiation of several programs in Ohio. Her expertise shines brightly through her role in the Behavioral Health team.

PERFORMANCE & QUALITY

IMPROVEMENT COORDINATOR


Ashley Butler, BS

she / her / hers

Ashley began as our Administrative Assistant, discovered a passion for client engagement, and smoothly transitioned to the foster care team as a dedicated case manager, specializing in working with teens. Her commitment to quality service led her to her current role as PQI Coordinator.

We've been privileged to play a role in helping thousands of children and families in central Ohio. As our community's needs have grown, we've been able to grow along with it. Our services now touch the lives of people in more than 14 counties every day. We credit our strength and endurance to a consistent approach to managing our business, and to the character of our people.


​Led by YAS' CEO, the Executive Team is a group of experienced agency leaders who have key executive roles in various areas of the agency. The Executive Team’s responsibilities include long-term strategic planning (programmatic and overall agency), preservation of YAS' financial stability, and quality improvement.

meet our executive team

YAS_Leaders_SarahCocheyCEO
YAS_Leaders_AnnHemphill

DIRECTOR OF
EARLY INTERVENTION


Ashley HarmonMS

she / her / hers

Ashley’s work is inspired by her valuable experiences working with children and families.  She believes in supporting and empowering families to achieve the best possible outcomes and guides the Franklin County Early Intervention Service Coordinator Team through this process. 

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER


Sarah Steuer, MSSA, LSW

she / her / hers

Sarah’s investment in YAS and our success runs deep. With 16 years-experience in social services, 14 of those have been at YAS. Passion for helping children and families is what got her here; the overwhelming dedication of our staff is what inspires and keeps her focused on creating a workplace that listens, learns, and evolves.

DIRECTOR OF

​DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING


Jocelyn PenninoBFA

she / her / hers

Jocelyn’s passion for storytelling and strategic copywriting is the driving force behind our communication and fundraising efforts. Her creativity continues to inspire action, strengthen community connections, and amplify our impact. 

YAS_Leaders_LydiaBoles

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER


Joshua Freedman, ​BAcc

he / him / his

Josh's journey with YAS began in September 2020, where he not only manages the financial pulse of the organization but also brings a vibrant energy to our team. His expertise ensures our financial harmony, making every dollar count in our mission to support Central Ohio families.

YAS_Leaders_AnitaGodfrey
YAS_Leaders_JocelynPennino
YAS_Leaders_EricaFitzgerald
Promoting Positive Futures

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS / HUMAN RESOURCES


Lauren Pompas, ​BA, PHR

she / her / hers

Lauren, joined as our Administrative Assistant and valued member since 2019, plays a crucial role in YAS's operations and success. A dedicated leader, she embodies efficiency and organization, ensuring everything stays on track with precision.