Welcome Cassie, our new Executive Director!

We are excited to welcome our new Executive Director, Cassie Patris-Browne, to Friends of the Children – Phoenix!

“Joining this mission is a ‘pinch me’ type of moment in my life,” says Cassie. “When the Friends of the Children Board of Directors found me, I was at a tipping point in my career, where leading an organization with such a deep impact was something I couldn’t pass up! Every youth deserves a Friend, and I will work with our Board and committed team to ensure that our program serves even more deserving families in the coming years. Our commitment is 12+ years, no matter what, and that’s a pledge I promise to carry on.”

Friends – Phoenix Board Chair Julie Wechsler shared that as the organization moves forward, “it was clear we needed an Executive Director with exceptional leadership skills, proven philanthropy experience, and an entrepreneurial spirit. After a five-month search, and with the help of a national recruiting firm, we found the perfect person! Cassie Patris-Browne is a lifelong learner with over 25 years’ experience in youth-serving organizations. She holds multiple certifications and has a proven track record building strong partnerships with funders and key community partners. Our Board is committed to multiplying our impact in the community, and we are delighted to have Cassie at the helm to do just that.”

Welcome, Cassie!