Melissa Dowda
Cedartown
Summary
Dynamic Executive Director with proven expertise in child and family advocacy, strategic planning, and program management. Successfully led initiatives that enhanced community engagement and volunteer recruitment, driving impactful outcomes for abused and neglected children.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
CASAS of Polk & Haralson
Cedartown, GA
11.2021 - Current
- Oversee overall operations program compliance, and strategic vision for a regional child-advocacy organization.
- Direct a team of 5 staff and recruit/manage over 30 active community volunteers advocating for abuse and neglected children in the juvenile court system.
- Prepare and file court reports and work with the juvenile court system,
- Work in collaboration with community partners (ex, Department of Family and Children Services, law enforcement, attorneys, accountability courts, court systems, etc.)
- Collaborate with local judges, child welfare agencies, and prosecutors to evaluate case outcomes and maintain seamless court operations
- Spearhead fundraising initiatives
- Directed strategic initiatives to enhance community engagement and program outreach.
- Implemented staff training programs, enhancing team performance and service delivery standards.
- Applied for and managed federal and local grants
Advocacy Coordinator
CASA of Polk & Haralson
Cedartown, GA
11.2017 - 11.2021
- Prepared, reviewed, and approved advocate court reports, ensuring high-quality, face-based recommendations were submitted to juvenile court judges.
- Planned and executed comprehensive initial training and continuing education programs for incoming CASA Volunteers.
- Conducted volunteer screenings and interviews, successfully matching 25 advocates to complex child dependency cases over 6 years.
- Maintained detailed volunteer and dependency case files, ensuring compliance with state confidentiality laws and grant reporting.
- Facilitated communication between stakeholders, ensuring alignment of advocacy goals and objectives.
CASA Volunteer
CASA of Polk & Haralson
Cedartown, GA
09.2013 - 11.2017
- Advocated for children's rights in court proceedings through thorough case analysis and documentation.
- Coordinated with social workers, legal representatives, and families to develop comprehensive care plans.
- Conducted regular visits with assigned children to assess needs and advocate for their best interests.
- Facilitated effective communication among stakeholders to ensure timely resolution of cases.
- Work with parents and child caretakers to develop a best interest recommendation for children.
Education
Bachelor of Science -
Bachelor of Science - Human Services
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA05-2019
Skills
- Child and Family Advocacy & Juvenile Justice System
- Case Management
- Community engagement and stakeholder relations
- Volunteer Recruitment, Training, and Education
- Program management
- Strategic planning
- Grant Writing and Sustainable Fundraising
- Nonprofit Executive Leadership & Board Governance
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Timeline
Executive Director
CASAS of Polk & Haralson
11.2021 - Current
Advocacy Coordinator
CASA of Polk & Haralson
11.2017 - 11.2021
CASA Volunteer
CASA of Polk & Haralson
09.2013 - 11.2017
Bachelor of Science -
Bachelor of Science - Human Services
Kennesaw State University