Erica Lee

About Erica Lee

Transformational Leader | Social Work Advocate | Community Systems BuilderWith over 16 years of leadership in child welfare, juvenile justice, workforce development, and reentry services, I am dedicated to creating systemic change that empowers individuals, strengthens families, and builds healthier communities. My deep roots in social work and trauma-informed care drive my approach to leadership—one that is collaborative, strategic, and deeply committed to equity and access.As Senior Director at Safer Foundation, I provide strategic oversight, program development, and community engagement to support individuals impacted by the criminal legal system. My expertise spans staff training, policy development, multi-site operations, and fiscal management, ensuring programs not only meet compliance standards but also produce meaningful, lasting outcomes. I also actively lead an advisory board, strengthening partnerships across sectors to drive impactful initiatives.Previously, at Family Resources, I led residential programs, developed staff training in trauma-informed care and PREA compliance, and worked directly with at-risk youth and families in crisis. My experience in both direct service and executive leadership gives me a unique systems-level perspective, allowing me to advocate for policy changes while ensuring immediate, high-quality services reach those in need.I believe in leading with understanding first, valuing the expertise of those on the front lines, and fostering a culture of innovation, transparency, and shared decision-making. My work is fueled by a passion for advocacy, community collaboration, and breaking down barriers that prevent individuals and families from thriving.Let’s connect and work toward building stronger, more equitable communities!

Experience

1. Associate Vice President, Regional Operations Quad Cities

   Safer Foundation

   May 2025 — Present · Davenport, IA, US

   Serving as the senior-most executive leading strategy, program oversight, stakeholder engagement, and growth in the Quad Cities region. Directs all aspects of reentry, workforce, education, and support services while ensuring alignment with agency goals. Successfully cultivating funding partnerships, leading multi-site operations, supervising cross-functional teams, and driving data-informed decision-making to expand access and improve outcomes for justice-impacted youth and adults. Manages fiscal accountability, contract compliance, and staff development with a strong focus on performance excellence and community healing.

Education

• St. Ambrose University

  Masters of Social Work, School Social Work

  2007 — 2009

• Augustana College

  Bachelor of Arts, Psychology & Speech Communication

  2002 — 2006

Skills

• Behavioral Health
• Microsoft Word
• Foster Care
• Research
• Child Welfare
• Customer Service
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Case Management
• Adolescents
• Strategic Planning
• Fundraising
• Child Development
• Group Therapy
• Training
• Child Advocacy
• Time Management
• Anger Management
• Cbt
• Team Building
• Program Development
• Mental Health Counseling
• Program Management
• Social Services
• Grant Writing
• Leadership
• Microsoft Office
• Mental Health
• Powerpoint
• Microsoft Excel
• Crisis Intervention
• Nonprofits