IN THIS LESSON


Now that you understand what Circles is, you need to know who we are. Who leads our organization? Who performs which functions? Find out here.

STAFF

Circles of Jackson County has two full-time staff: Dawn Neatherly and Rachel Byrd

Dawn Neatherly serves as the Executive Director at Circles. Read her biography here.

Rachel Byrd serves as the Client Services Coordinator at Circles. Read her biography here.

Since Circles is a nonprofit, our funding comes from grants and donations. Staffing and professional development dominate most of our funding. Both the Executive Director (ED) and the Client Services Coordinator (CSC) serve vital roles to ensure Circles operates successfully.

The ED serves as a member of the board, manages grant applications, attends public speaking events, and represents our chapter. The ED also oversees the CSC. The CSC reports progress with Circle Leaders (clients), facilitates meetings, oversees student volunteers, and coordinates community engagement projects. Both the CSC and the ED often share roles that can best serve Circles on a daily basis.

BOARD

Circles has a Board of Directors consisting of community leaders, experienced professionals, donors, and former Circle Leaders and Allies.

Board Members, lead by the Chairperson, oversee organizational plans, make decisions on the direction Circles takes to meet residents of Jackson County, and are involved in fundraising events. Our board members represent a diverse economic population such as representatives in higher education, faith-based community, financial experts, and at least 1 former Circle Leader. Each member serves a term lasting 2 to 3 years. Read member biographies here.

Our Board often engages with our fundraising events to help with operations, reception, and take-down. This image comes from out 2025 Fall Tea Fundraiser.

Not all members were present. Pictured is Deborah Harris, Ann Melton, Jessica Green, Jake Buchanan, and Gayle Woody.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES