The Family Support Center of South Sound (FSCSS) announced today that Schelli Slaughter, Executive Director of the organization for more than 11 years has accepted a position as the Public Health and Social Services Director for Thurston County. Slaughter’s first day in her new role is March 27.
Sara Holt-Knox, Chair of the FSCSS Board of Directors, said that the organization thrived under Schelli’s leadership. “In addition to developing many programs and services over the years that have made a difference in the lives of thousands of local families and children, Schelli led the vision and creation of Pear Blossom Place, our region’s largest 24-hour shelter and affordable housing community for homeless families with children. Her dedication has been unmatched, and we are a much stronger organization because of her passion and leadership.”
Schelli has also been a key leader in the development and operation of a Family Justice Center Program a collaborative and co-located program serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney, Jon Tunheim, a lead partner in the project said “Schelli’s collaboration and leadership was instrumental in creating a program which is now giving hope to survivors every day. I’m looking forward to working with Schelli in her new role to raise awareness of domestic violence as a public health issue.”
Slaughter said: “It has been an absolute honor to work at Family Support Center for so many years—I’m so proud of the impact this organization makes on improving the health, safety, and wellbeing of families and children every day and am confident it will continue to grow and thrive under amazing new leadership. I’m thrilled to have been selected as the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services Director and I look forward to continuing to serve our community in this new role.”
Trish Gregory, current Deputy Director will serve as Acting Executive Director. Gregory has been with FSCSS for more than 15 years serving in a variety of leadership, administrative and program management capacities.
