Sheila Derr
Harrisburg,PA
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and evolving programs to achieve strategic objectives. Proven track record in developing talent and programs, optimizing processes, and upholding high standards while aligning efforts with organizational goals. Recognized for a collaborative approach, commitment to excellence, and ability to drive impactful results.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Early Childhood & Family Development
Tri County Community Action
06.2020 - Current
- Oversee all departmental programming, activities, and staff within a $1.4 million budget, ensuring effective resource allocation and program delivery.
- Lead a high-performing team of nine family development coordinators across three counties, driving professional growth through mentorship, guidance, and development opportunities.
- Foster team collaboration and effectiveness through regular communication, goal-setting, and performance evaluations.
- Contribute to the senior leadership team by participating in the development and execution of the agency’s strategic plan, including shared goals, events, advocacy efforts, and project management.
- Cultivate a culture of continuous improvement by promoting open communication, implementing quality improvement projects, and encouraging team member input.
- Forge strategic partnerships with organizations to address Social Determinants of Health and barriers to economic self-sufficiency, enhancing community support and resource access.
Administrator
Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church
04.2013 - 02.2020
- Directed administrative operations for a diverse, multiethnic urban church community of 400+ members, managing an annual budget of $900K.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration across ministry teams, enhancing knowledge sharing and driving innovation in programs and outreach.
- Developed and supervised a team of 200+ volunteers, overseeing programming for children, youth, and families in partnership with pastoral staff.
- Crafted detailed project plans with clear objectives, timelines, milestones, and resource allocation, ensuring on-time and within-budget completion of projects.
- Organized and coordinated staff events, professional development sessions, and team-building activities to enhance collaboration and growth.
- Managed and coordinated significant events such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals, providing pastoral care and support during key life moments for congregants.
Mental Health Coordinator
Northwestern Human Services–Crisis Diversionary Residence & Extended Acute Care Unit
11.2011 - 02.2013
- Supervised and guided a team of 20 staff members and interns, enhancing clinical skills and ensuring adherence to best-practice standards within a multidisciplinary team setting.
- Boosted staff competency in managing mental health crises through targeted training initiatives and ongoing support.
- Conducted periodic crisis intervention sessions, effectively de-escalating situations and ensuring resident safety.
- Created a supportive residential environment by delivering comprehensive intake and risk assessments, individual and group counseling, and life skills training.
- Improved resident outcomes through evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to individual needs.
- Contributed to a 50% reduction in hospital readmissions by coordinating effective multidisciplinary mental health teams.
Education
Master of Arts - Marriage & Family Therapy
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VABachelor of Arts - Education
Messiah College
Grantham, PASkills
- Non-profit management
- Strategic planning
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Leadership development
- People management
- Program development
- Project management
- Partnerships and alliances
- Performance improvement
- Creativity and innovation
- Change management
- Verbal and written communication
Websites
Accomplishments
- Gold Level Recognition: Tri County Community Action's Early Childhood & Family Development program was honored with the 2024 Equity in Early Childhood Education Champion Award by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development & Early Learning.
Early Work History
Served as the Director of Camping and Adventure Programs for Kenbrook Ministries, Lebanon, PA
- For 3.5 years, led operations and program management for a residential camp and year-round adventure program, serving approximately 900 children, youth, families, and professionals, managing an annual budget of $600K.
- Developed and implemented policies and best practices, coordinated communications, and oversaw the hiring and development of a 30+ member staff team.
- Managed budgets effectively to optimize resource use and ensure financial stability.
- Improved stakeholder satisfaction through timely and transparent communication strategies.
- Leveraged industry knowledge and professional networks to enhance relationships with families and business professionals, strengthening program impact and engagement.
Served as the Associate Pastor of Children & Youth for the Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church, Harrisburg, PA
- For 2 years following graduation from Messiah College, provided leadership for children, youth, and families within a 200-member multiethnic church community, managing an annual budget of $400K.
- Developed and supervised a team of 50 volunteers to deliver impactful children, youth, and family programming.
- Conducted home visits to provide care and support during crises or illness, demonstrating compassion and empathy.
- Fostered partnerships with local organizations through joint meetings and community service projects, enhancing the quality of life for attendees and regional community members.
Community Service
- Perry County Children's Roundtable Member - Perry County Children & Youth Services Agency, New Bloomfield, PA, 09/23 - Present
- Be the Bridge Group Facilitator - Harrisburg BIC Church, Harrisburg, PA, 09/16-02/20
- Donor Engagement & Team Development - Eastern Mennonite Missions, Lancaster, PA, 02/19-06/24
- Central Asia MST Chairperson - Eastern Mennonite Missions, Lancaster, PA, 03/11-02/18
Certification
- Trauma Competent Professional - Lakeside Learning
- DEIB Professional - Power to Fly
- Parent Educator - Parents as Teachers National
- Facilitator - Be Strong Parent Café
- Trainer - Mothers & Babies
- Trainer - Families in Recovery
Timeline
Director of Early Childhood & Family Development
Tri County Community Action
06.2020 - Current
Administrator
Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church
04.2013 - 02.2020
Mental Health Coordinator
Northwestern Human Services–Crisis Diversionary Residence & Extended Acute Care Unit
11.2011 - 02.2013
- Trauma Competent Professional - Lakeside Learning
- DEIB Professional - Power to Fly
- Parent Educator - Parents as Teachers National
- Facilitator - Be Strong Parent Café
- Trainer - Mothers & Babies
- Trainer - Families in Recovery
Master of Arts - Marriage & Family Therapy
Liberty University
Bachelor of Arts - Education
Messiah College
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