April Burgess-Johnson has been named Executive Director of
Helpmate, the domestic violence agency serving Buncombe County. April
joined Helpmate’s staff as Program Director in December 2012 and has worked to
end domestic violence for 18 years.
Prior to April’s service at Helpmate she worked as an independent
consultant, focusing on non-profit program development, sustainability and
training, all within the framework of violence against women. April
previously served at the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and
was involved in several projects, including development and support for
coordinated community response teams, primary prevention, training/technical
assistance and executive management. Over the course of her devoted career,
April has also worked as a Rape and Sexual Assault Advocate, Shelter Manager,
and Executive Director in domestic violence and sexual assault programs and as
the Central Region Director where she provided grants monitoring for the NC
Council for Women/Domestic Violence Commission.
“It’s been a strategic search process that went nationwide and
adhered to best practices for non profits, resulting in the best possible
candidate for Helpmate,” said Cindy Hamilton, president of the Helpmate Board
of Directors. “We believe that April’s long history of unfaltering leadership
in the movement to end domestic violence, as well as, her considerable
experience in nonprofit management made her the ideal candidate to dynamically
lead Helpmate into the future.”
“I am excited to start this new chapter in my relationship with
Helpmate,” said April Burgess-Johnson. “I have worked with the program as
a collaborator for many years and have always respected and admired Helpmate’s
commitment to its mission and the dedication of its staff, board and volunteers.
I look forward to the opportunity to further build on this strong foundation to
provide critical, life-saving services to families impacted by domestic
violence.”
Helpmate is a domestic violence agency working with our community
to eliminate abuse and fear. Funded by a combination of United Way
contributions, government grants and community donations Helpmate serves
approximately 2,000 people in Buncombe County each year. Free services
include a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, crisis counseling, court advocacy
and community education. Volunteer support is critical to helping the
organization fulfill its mission. To request services, call Helpmate’s
24-hour hotline at 828-254-0516. To offer donations or to inquire about
volunteer opportunities, call the business office at 828-254-2968.
