Our Staff

Executive Director | director@stepstohope.org
As Executive Director, Diane is responsible for overall day-to-day leadership for Steps to HOPE's administrative and shelter staff. She is responsible for grant writing and reports directly to the Board of Directors.

Administrative Assistant & Volunteer Coordinator | admin@stepstohope.org
Cristen is responsible for volunteer and community service coordination at Steps to HOPE, Steps to HOPE Thrift Barn, and Second Chance Thrift Store. She also serves as an administrative assistant and provides client services as needed at Steps to HOPE.

Office & Marketing Manager | office@stepstohope.org
Jessica serves in many different roles, including media relations, event coordination, and fundraising. She is responsible for creating publications, brochures, flyers, and advertisements. She serves as office manager and is the coordinator of The HOPE Golf Classic. When she's not overseeing the daily operations at Steps to HOPE, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband, Austin, son, Easton, and two dogs, Winston and Lily.

Student Intern
Gracie serves as general office support to the staff and performs duties such as answering the crisis hotline, being a liaison between clients and staff, inputting data in various databases, and assisting in organizing events. She is a junior at Polk County High School and attends virtual classes at the North Carolina School of Science and Math. She is a member of Student Council, Key Club, Interact Club, and Unified Champions. Gracie is also a member of the varsity football and basketball cheerleading squads. In her free time, Gracie enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with her family. 

Case Manager & Client Services | services@stepstohope.org
Sandra works directly with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. She guides clients through judicial processes, such as filing the appropriate paperwork and accompanying them to court proceedings. Sandra spends her weekends hiking and enjoying nature in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Finance Manager | finance@stepstohope.org
Connie is responsible for accounting and payroll at Steps to HOPE. She also oversees the preparation of grant reports and financial analysis of income and expense. Connie loves traveling and spending time with her three grandchildren.

Program Coordinator | programs@stepstohope.org
Cindy manages, coordinates, and oversees different programs and projects for Steps to HOPE. She helps build community relationships with area resource teams and external parties while supporting growth and program development. In her free time, Cindy is an avid reader who enjoys the outdoors and spending time with her puppy, Bella.