The founding director of Court Appointed Special Advocates of McKean County is stepping down from her post and is joining the Olean, N.Y., YMCA as branch executive director.
On Friday, the announcement came from both agencies about the changing role of Kristen Tim.
“I am very proud of CASA of McKean County, our volunteers, and the partnerships we established with the child welfare system in McKean County,” Tim said. “It has been a rewarding experience as a steering committee member, then founding director, to see the program grow to where it is today, but it is time for me to move on.”
CASA of McKean County came about from a Leadership McKean class in 2013 and was created the following year. Tim was hired as the agency’s first executive director.
Bob Esch, CASA board president, said, “The board members of CASA of McKean County are saddened by Kristen’s departure; however, we wish her well and know she will prosper in her new role.”
Esch continued, “Under Kristen’s strong leadership, she helped CASA transition from a fledgling organization to a thriving one, an organization that advocates tirelessly for the best interests of abused and neglected children in placement.”
The agency has grown since its beginning. In 2017, Jessica London was brought on board to serve as advocate supervisor.
“In working with the board and county partners, Kristen was the driving force behind CASA’s momentum,” Esch said.
A search for a new director has begun.
“CASA will continue to be a strong force in McKean County, where so many dependent children need a consistent advocate to speak for them,” Esch said. “Therefore, the board has begun the search for a new executive director, assessing both internal and external resources.”
Tim will be assuming a role as branch executive director of the Olean YMCA effective July 23.
In addition to her work at CASA, Tim has served on the Bradford YMCA Advisory Board since 2015. “We are overjoyed to welcome Kristen to the Olean YMCA,” said Dana Cilano, YMCA of the Twin Tiers human resources manager. She continued, “Her work with CASA, long-standing history with the YMCA in both her personal and professional life make her an ideal candidate for this key role in our organization.”
Jeff Alevy, CEO of the YMCA of the Twin Tiers, said, “The experience, integrity and passion that Kristen brings to our team is a blessing. We’re at a transformational point in the history of our Y. I am confident that Kristen’s leadership — with our dedicated staff and volunteer team — will grow the Y’s impact through our three focus areas; youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.”
Tim and her husband, John, live in Bradford with their sons, Jack and Dale.
Regarding her new role at the YMCA, Tim said, “As a life-long member and supporter of the YMCA I am excited to join their team in this capacity and to have the opportunity to engage and collaborate with our community. We are fortunate to have the presence of this incredible organization, and I consider it a privilege to be a part of the forward motion of the mission of the Olean YMCA.”
