DELAWARE — HelpLine is pleased to announce that Jason Bridges has accepted the Board of Directors’ offer to become the organization’s next Executive Director, effective Monday, September 14.
Bridges has served as HelpLine’s interim executive director since March, helping guide the organization through a period of significant leadership transition. During that time, he has developed strong relationships with staff, community partners and other stakeholders while gaining a deeper understanding of HelpLine’s mission, programs and role in the community.
The decision to offer Bridges the permanent position reflects a change from the Board’s original plan to conduct an executive search. As the Board had the opportunity to observe Bridges’ leadership firsthand, its perspective on the organization’s leadership needs evolved.
“Jason came to HelpLine as an interim leader, and we expected that we would eventually conduct a search for our next executive director,” said Teri Meider, Chair of the HelpLine Board of Directors. “But over these past several months, we have had the opportunity to see Jason lead.
“He has brought stability, listened to our staff and partners, built strong relationships and demonstrated a clear commitment to HelpLine’s mission. The Board ultimately determined that we already had the leader we were looking for.”
Rather than conduct another executive search simply because it had been the original plan, the Board determined that retaining Bridges was in HelpLine’s best interest. The decision provides continuity for the organization and allows HelpLine to maintain the momentum it has built during the leadership transition.
“We didn’t know in March what we know today,” Meider said. “The Board’s responsibility is to make the decision that is best for HelpLine based on what we know and what the organization needs. We are confident that Jason is the right person to lead HelpLine into its next chapter.”
Bridges said he is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving HelpLine in a permanent capacity.
“I have been impressed by the dedication of the people who make HelpLine what it is,” said Bridges. “This organization has an important place in this community, and I am honored that the Board has asked me to continue leading the work.
“I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made, listening to our staff and partners, and working together to strengthen HelpLine’s impact.”
As Executive Director, Bridges will lead HelpLine’s continued work providing 24/7 crisis support, information and referral through 211, prevention services, sexual assault response, suicide prevention and other programs that connect individuals and families with the support they need.
“HelpLine has been through a lot of change, and our focus now is on moving forward together,” Bridges said. “There is important work ahead, and I am excited about what we can accomplish.”
