CONCORD, CA – After more than a decade of transformational leadership, Ann Wrixon, Executive Director of Child Advocates of Contra Costa County (formerly CASA of Contra Costa County), is retiring. Ann leaves behind a remarkable legacy of innovation, growth, and impact on the lives of foster youth throughout the region. The organization is proud to announce that Katharine Mason, MPA, a seasoned leader in child and family services, has been appointed as the new Executive Director, effective this month.
Since joining the organization over ten years ago, Ann Wrixon has led Child Advocates through a period of bold expansion and groundbreaking change. Under her leadership, the organization launched its trauma-informed therapy program, created a comprehensive academic tutoring initiative, and became one of the first CASA programs in California to extend advocacy services to youth in the juvenile justice system.
In addition, Ann’s deep commitment to vulnerable children has driven extraordinary outcomes
“Ann’s vision and tireless work have given hundreds of children in foster care not just stability, but the, belief that they can thrive,” said Board Chair Jennifer Johnson. “She has changed the trajectory of countless young lives.”
To honor Ann’s leadership, supporters are invited to make a donation in her name to Child Advocates of Contra Costa County. Visit the link below to contribute: https://childadvocatesofcontracostacounty.org/donate/
As the organization looks toward the future, it is thrilled to welcome Katharine Mason as its new Executive Director. Katharine brings more than 25 years of experience designing and managing large-scale public and nonprofit programs that support children, youth, and families. She has led multimillion-dollar initiatives in early childhood education, family wellness, and equitable systems change, including directing the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs for Contra Costa County’s Community Services Bureau.
Most recently, Katharine served as Director of Campus Operations at Making Waves Academy, where she led a 24-person team focused on safety, facilities, and organizational systems. With a Master of Public Administration and a deep belief in collaborative, values-driven leadership, Katharine is well-poised to guide Child Advocates into its next era.
“I am honored to join an organization with such a powerful mission and a track record of life-changing impact,” said Mason. “I look forward to working with our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community to ensure that every child in foster care is heard, valued, and supported.”
This leadership transition marks both a celebration of extraordinary service and a renewed commitment to the organization’s mission: to ensure that every child in foster care has a voice and the support they need to thrive.
CASA of Contra Costa County Becomes Child Advocates of Contra Costa County
New name reflects expanded mission to serve youth beyond the courtroom
Concord, CA — CASA of Contra Costa County is proud to announce that it has officially changed its name to Child Advocates of Contra Costa County. This transformation reflects the organization’s deepened commitment to supporting children and youth not only in the courtroom, but across every aspect of their well-being.
While the name and branding have evolved, the mission remains unchanged: to provide powerful, consistent advocacy and holistic support for children and youth involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems.
“This new name reflects who we have become,” said Executive Director Ann Wrixon. “Our work has expanded significantly over the past several years. In addition to the CASA Volunteer Advocate Program, we now offer trauma-informed academic tutoring, teletherapy, and reproductive health education. The name Child Advocates of Contra Costa County better captures our comprehensive approach to supporting youth across every dimension of their lives.”
Child Advocates of Contra Costa County currently offers four key programs:
- Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program – Trained volunteer advocates provide consistent support and a strong voice in court for children in foster care and the juvenile justice
- Tutoring Program – Trauma-informed academic tutoring to help youth achieve educational
- Therapy Project California – Free teletherapy for current and former foster youth, ensuring accessible mental health support.
- Reproductive Health Program – Education and access to reproductive healthcare, offered through partnerships with local public health agencies.
Except for the new name and visual identity, all other aspects of the organization remain unchanged. The transition includes a newly designed website and updated materials that reflect the expanded vision and scope of services.
The name Child Advocates of Contra Costa County emphasizes the organization’s evolving role in caring for the whole child—mentally, emotionally, physically, and educationally—so every youth we serve has the opportunity to heal, grow, and succeed.
Join us in our mission: Community members are encouraged to get involved by volunteering, donating, or helping spread the word. Your support makes a lasting difference in the lives of local youth.
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