Together, they bring expertise in behavioral health, housing, finance, operations, and nonprofit management. Equally important, many of our leaders and board members bring lived experience of long-term recovery — including recovery after homelessness and involvement in the justice system.
Executive Director
Executive Director Shawn has led First Step House through two decades of vision and growth, overseeing treatment, housing, and wraparound services that serve more than 1,700 people each year. He also serves on HRSA’s National Advisory Council on the National Health Service Corps and co-chairs the Salt Lake Valley Coalition to End Homelessness.
Associate Director
Associate Director Austin directs organizational operations and development projects at First Step House, ensuring programs and facilities expand in step with community need. He has a background in finance and housing development and currently serves as Treasurer of the Utah Housing Coalition.
Quality Improvement Director
Quality Improvement Director Amy oversees program evaluation and quality assurance, ensuring that First Step House delivers effective, evidence-based care. She has more than 15 years of experience serving vulnerable populations through the Division of Child and Family Services, the Department of Corrections, and a community mental health agency.
Substance Use Disorder Services Director
Substance Use Disorder Services Director Daniel leads First Step House’s substance use treatment programs, drawing on more than a decade of clinical experience and five years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps. Before becoming director, he worked as a therapist and program manager in several First Step House treatment programs.
Finance Director
Finance Director Heidi manages First Step House’s financial strategy, systems, and reporting. With more than 15 years of finance experience, she ensures transparency and accountability in a time of rapid organizational growth.
Mental Health Treatment Services Director
Mental Health Treatment Services Director Jared directs all mental health treatment services at First Step House, ensuring high-quality care for clients with complex co-occurring needs. He also serves on the Utah Division of Professional Licensing board, shaping statewide behavioral health standards.
Human Resources Director
Human Resources Director Jazz guides organizational culture, talent development, and HR operations at First Step House. With over 25 years in nonprofit leadership, he builds systems that support staff growth, retention, and accountability.
Operations Director
Operations Director Kevin manages facilities, IT, and day-to-day operations that keep the First Step House campuses running smoothly. He brings more than 15 years of leadership in operations management.
Development Director
Development Director Mary T. leads fundraising, communications, and partnerships that fuel First Step House’s mission. With more than 15 years of leadership experience in higher education and workforce development, she builds donor relationships and secures resources that sustain and grow programs.
Medical Director
Medical Director
Board Chair
Board Chair Jacob is a CFO consultant with Clabby Consulting and a member of First Step House’s Finance Committee. He brings deep expertise in financial strategy and oversight.
Board Vice Chair
Board Vice Chair Pamela is the retired Vice President of Sales and Account Management at United Healthcare. She lends decades of experience in health care systems and community partnerships.
Board Member
Board Member Brandy is President and CEO of Centro Cívico Mexicano, Utah’s oldest Hispanic organization, and a recognized advocate for women and Latino communities.
Board Member
Board Member Charles is a veteran and addiction therapist with the Department of Veterans Affairs, bringing front-line clinical experience and a commitment to serving veterans.
Board Secretary
Board Secretary Annette is a professor at the University of Utah School of Dentistry and a neuroscientist whose research has advanced understanding of substance use disorders.
Board Treasurer
Board Treasurer Kyle is Vice President and Private Wealth Advisor at U.S. Bank and a member of First Step House’s Finance Committee. He provides expertise in banking and financial planning.
Every treatment bed is a chance to begin again. Your support helps
people rebuild their health, their families, and their futures.
