Strengthening Leadership for Our Community
At Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington, our ability to show up for our neighbors starts with strong leadership rooted in purpose, continuity, and care. Today, we are thrilled to share some exciting news about the future of our team!
Effective July 1, two familiar faces who have dedicated over a decade of service to our agency are stepping into expanded executive roles: Whitney Carlson has been named Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, and Steve Wilmes has been promoted to Vice President of Mission Advancement.
These promotions reflect both the depth of talent within our agency and our commitment to growing our operational strengths alongside our mission across Central and Eastern Washington.
Whitney Carlson’s journey with Catholic Charities began in 2011 as an Independent Living Case Manager. Through years of direct frontline experience—most recently as Director of Youth and Housing Supportive Services—Whitney has gained an intimate understanding of the daily opportunities and challenges facing the individuals and families we serve. In her new role as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Whitney will oversee agency-wide operations, ensuring our programs run smoothly, efficiently, and compassionately.
"Working directly alongside youth and families taught me that behind every policy, process, and decision is a person relying on us for support, stability, and hope. Effective operations are not simply about systems and processes; they are about creating the conditions for people to succeed." — Whitney Carlson, Executive Vice President & COO
For more than 12 years, Steve Wilmes has helped cultivate meaningful relationships across Central Washington as our Director of Advancement. In his new role as Vice President of Mission Advancement, Steve will expand board development for both Catholic Charities and Catholic Charities Housing Services, while deepening our agency’s Catholic identity and expanding key community partnerships. Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, Steve’s work focuses on honoring the inherent dignity of every person who walks through our doors.
"The work we do reflects Catholic Social Teaching, especially the foundational dignity of every human person. Catholic Charities makes a difference for individuals and families in communities throughout Central Washington. Every person we serve, whether a young parent or lonely elder, has a story. We meet them in their time of need and walk with them to the next step." — Steve Wilmes, Vice President of Mission Advancement
By pairing strong operational leadership with dedicated mission advancement, Catholic Charities is positioned to address the complex, interconnected needs of our region—including housing instability, behavioral health support, food insecurity, early learning and childcare access, and assistance for seniors and families in crisis.
As Manuel Villafán, Jr., President & CEO, shared:
"This structural shift allows Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington to strengthen two essential areas at the same time: operational excellence and mission growth. Whitney and Steve understand our mission, our people, our programs, and the unique needs of the communities we serve because they have helped carry this work forward for many years."
Promoting leadership from within reinforces the heart of our culture: continuity, deep community connection, and unwavering care. Please join us in celebrating Whitney and Steve as they embark on these new chapters in service to Central and Eastern Washington!
To learn more about our programs or find out how you can support our mission, visit our Services Page or Get Involved.
