Barb Andres Announces Retirement
Dr. Barbara Andres, PhD, LMSW has announced her retirement after 34 years of dedicated service as Executive Director of Breakthrough/Episcopal Social Services, effective May 31, 2021.
Dr. Andres began her career in 1987 with the Breakthrough Club. The Clubhouse is a distinct and highly effective program providing vocational and social services to people who struggle with severe mental illness. During those early years, the organization expanded to 50 employees with innovative program development in job training, wellness, employment, and social and recreational activities. “Collaborating with people who are poor and with mental illness has been a rewarding way to change the mental health system in Kansas,” says Dr. Andres.
Dr. Andres continued applying her tremendous leadership and organizational skills in 2011 as Breakthrough Club merged with Episcopal Social Services, enhancing delivery of services for the poor and mentally ill. For 35 years, Episcopal Social Services (ESS) has focused on helping those in Wichita, Kansas battling poverty, hunger, homelessness, unemployment, financial mismanagement, and mental illness. In 2018, Dr. Andres, in collaboration with other mental health advocates, worked with Kansas state legislators for legislation directing a portion of Kansas State Lottery revenue to fund Clubhouse Model programs. This funding helped expand Clubhouse programs in three new Kansas communities. Andres adds, “It’s been a privilege to inspire and educate people to open their hearts to people in poverty and those with mental illness, focusing not on their symptoms but focusing on their strengths.”
Dr. Andres founded Andres Consulting in 2010. Her consulting in program development, governance, fundraising, strategic planning, and leadership skill development has influenced many nonprofit organizations into financially healthy futures.
In 2018, the agency changed its name from Episcopal Social Services to Breakthrough, encompassing all programs under one name. The agency serves 2,902 clients throughout the year with 8,888 volunteer hours, 35 staff, and an operating budget of $2.3 million. The Board thanks Dr. Andres for her dedication, creativity, kindness, and impact on the clients, staff, directors and community partners with whom she works.
The Board of Breakthrough is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Executive Director. The opening will be posted with www.Indeed.com and inquiries may be directed to Rhandalee Hinman, SPHR, at hinmanandassociates@sbcglobal.net.