DELAWARE, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—HelpLine announced Monday the appointment of Jason Bridges as its long-term Interim Executive Director, a strategic move aimed at ensuring organizational stability during a period of leadership transition.
Bridges officially assumed the role on March 30, 2026. He will serve in a part-time capacity, managing operations Monday through Thursday. The appointment follows a recruitment process conducted by the HelpLine Board of Directors in partnership with Benefactor, a firm specializing in nonprofit executive placement.
“We are pleased to welcome Jason Bridges to HelpLine during this important time,” said Teri Meider, Chair of the HelpLine Board of Directors. “His experience in nonprofit executive leadership and demonstrated success in behavioral health and organizational growth will provide valuable guidance as we continue to advance our mission.”
Bridges joins the Delaware-based organization with more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. He most recently served as the Executive Director of Fairwinds, a community behavioral health center in Nantucket, where he oversaw a budget expansion from $2.6 million to over $5 million. His tenure there was marked by the development of integrated partnerships with law enforcement and healthcare providers to improve community access to care.
A graduate of Wabash College with a degree in psychology, Bridges also holds a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from Tufts University. His professional background is bolstered by a history of community service, including board memberships for domestic violence prevention and volunteer work with Meals on Wheels.
The interim appointment follows the resignation of former Executive Director Dr. Tonia Pace earlier this month. Lauren MacDade, HelpLine’s Associate Director, had been filling the role in the immediate wake of Pace’s departure to ensure continuity of services.
Board officials emphasized that HelpLine’s programs, including its crisis support and prevention services, will continue without interruption during this transition period.