The Children’s Aid Society of Algoma has announced it has a new, permanent executive director.
Tracy Willoughby has had an extensive career spanning 35 years in the child welfare sector, dedicating her career to helping families and making a difference in the lives of children and youth in our community, CASA said in a news release.
She began her career as a child protection worker and in 2003 became director of service for CASA.
Since July 2021, Willoughby has been acting executive director for CASA and has worked locally and provincially on many initiatives.
These include the development of local CAS/VAW collaboration protocol, the community complex case management system for youth, and the amalgamation project exploring the feasibility of child welfare to amalgamate with children’s mental health.
“We are extremely excited to have Tracy extend her role to permanent executive director," board president Sean Sparling said. "Tracy brings extensive experience and leadership to the Children’s Aid Society of Algoma that will enable her to continue fulfilling the board’s strategic plan – ensuring all children and youth grow and thrive in their families, cultures, and communities."
Willoughby is committed to Truth and Reconciliation and the restoration of child welfare services to Indigenous organizations and communities and working collaboratively with community partners to strengthen services for families, CASA said.
The Children’s Aid Society said it welcomes Willoughby’s leadership, advocacy and commitments to equitable and inclusive services and supports for children, youth and families in the Algoma district.