“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”

Muhammad Ali

Our Board & Staff

Valley CAC is governed by a Board of Directors composed of 11-17 volunteers from throughout the community who, along with their commitment to the mission of the CAC, bring a variety of vital personal and professional experiences to the organization. Board members serve as ambassadors for our organization throughout the community.

We’re always looking for ways to grow and diversify our Board of Directors, so if you are interested in learning more, reach out to Rebecca at rebecca@valleychildrenscenter.org.

Officers

  • President
    Mike Wilhelm
  • Vice President
    Hon. Ron Ramsey
  • Treasurer
    Christopher Harper
  • Secretary
    Randy Watkins

Directors

  • Linda Shreckhise
  • April Dovel

Board Of Directors

Our Staff

Rebecca Simmons, MSW

Executive Director

Rebecca graduated from James Madison University with her undergraduate degree in Sociology and a Master’s in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Rebecca worked in the criminal justice field as a probation officer and later with at-risk children and families in a clinical setting, which is where she was introduced to the Child Advocacy Center model. Rebecca joined the Valley CAC team as Executive Director in 2015 and is passionate about educating the community on the reality of child abuse, as well as equipping them with tools to prevent future abuse. Rebecca lives in Augusta County with her husband Tim and son Owen. She enjoys spending time with friends and traveling to new places.

Charlé Johnson, MA, Advanced Certified Forensic Interviewer

Associate Director

Charlé received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia and her Master’s Degree in Communication and Advocacy at James Madison University. Charlé has always considered herself an advocate for the safety and well-being of children, as well as the environment, as shown through her work with the Department of Interior-Bureau of Land Management, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and other various community service organizations. In addition to her passion for public service, Charlé loves traveling and looks forward to experiencing other cultures around the world with her family.

Coty Hargrove, BSW, Diplomate Certified Forensic Interviewer

Forensic Interviewer

Coty received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Mary Baldwin University. Before working at the Valley CAC, Coty worked for Staunton Parks and Recreation watching children in the before- and after-school programs at Staunton City Schools. She also worked as a summer camp counselor with Camp Staunton. When she is not working, Coty loves reading and spending time with her friends, her husband, and her dog, Cooper. Coty grew up in this area and looks forward to giving back to her community in this role.

Savanna Kelley, Licensed Professional Counselor

Therapist

Savanna received her Masters in Counseling degree from Eastern Mennonite University. Before working with the Valley CAC, she provided community based mental health services to individuals, families, and groups. Savanna also provided outpatient counseling in the public school setting, collegiate setting, and at the community services board. Savanna utilizes evidence based, holistic interventions that integrate client’s somatic experience, cognitions, and emotions. Savanna utilizes mindfulness, trauma-informed yoga, and expressive arts to help clients engage in self-regulation and intrapersonal growth. In addition to her enthusiasm and advocacy for mental health, Savanna reads, listens to podcasts, and spends time outside.

Lauren Walters, BSW

Forensic Interviewer

Lauren received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Liberty University. Prior to working at Valley CAC, Lauren worked as a Mental Health Case Manager and also spent some time working at United Way. Lauren feels strongly about giving a voice to the vulnerable. She is a member of the Staunton Kiwanis, and as part of her membership advises the Staunton High School Key Club. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and her beloved dogs! Outside of work Lauren can be found reading a good book, taking in the outdoors, or tending to her flowers! 

Hillary Getsey, MSW Candidate

Family Advocate Coordinator

Hillary is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration through Virginia Commonwealth University. Hillary has always loved professional and volunteer pursuits that support children and families, and has recently joined the field of social work as a career change. Hillary is passionate about supporting families of survivors as they navigate the internal and external aspects of adjustment and healing after traumatic events. Outside of work,  Hillary loves to spend time with family and friends, and loves getting lost in a good book.