ABOUT US
History
Salem County Inter Agency Council began as an informal, voluntary gathering of parents who were frustrated with challenges securing disability services for their children. At the time, the state of New Jersey passed legislation that required all counties to form and operate Human Services Advisory Councils to ensure local communication and accountability for services and programs provided by the NJ Department of Human Services and NJ Department of Children and Families. At the time, Salem County only had a small health department and so it approached the working group of parents along with local service professionals and asked them to officially form as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to serve as the HSAC. Today, IAC embraces the fundamental role as an intermediary strengthening the communications channel between residents, communities, service provider networks, and government partners on the county, regional, state, and federal level.
Values
Being present through in person engagements and building authentic relationships
Listening
Stewarding resources wisely by advocating for and investing in interventions that further sustainable transformations and true local resiliency
Supporting locally driven and collaborative solutions
Amplifying appreciation for the diversity across Salem County’s unique geographical landscape and communities
Data informed decision making.
Team
Cristina Chillem, Executive Director
In her eighth year of professional service in Salem County, with a Masters in English from Rutgers University, and a record of securing and managing over $# in grants since the start of her nonprofit career in 2016.
Teshana Thomlinson, Administrative Coordinator
Jennifer Preen, Housing Programs Coordinator
Ayesha Miller, Youth Systems Coordinator
Board of Directors
Heather McManus, Board President
Township Administrator for the Township of Pennsville and Chief of the Pennsville volunteer ambulance squad
Rich Stuart, Board Vice President
Deputy Director for the Salem County Board of Social Services with a Masters in Criminal Justice
Brenda Goins, Board Secretary
Former Executive Director of the Salem Health and Wellness Foundation
Kathy Lockbaum, Board Treasurer
Former Director of the Salem County Board of Social Services with #+ years of professional accounting experience
Alisia Watson, Board Member
Community Organizer for underserved culture sand communities for over 25 years; Director of Community Engagement for Southern NJ Family Medical Center
Renee Penn, Board Member
Professional in the education sector for 28 years; Dean’s Secretary, Camden County Community College; Chair of the Environmental and Social Justice committee of the NJ Sierra Club; and Co-chair of the Environmental Justice committee of the Tri-County Sustainability Coalition
Attachments
501 c 3 status
By laws
Audits
990s
Certificate of good standing
About the Inter-Agency Council of Salem County, NJ
The Inter-Agency Council (IAC) of Salem County serves as a unifying network of organizations, agencies, and advocates dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families across the county. Through collaboration, communication, and coordinated action, the IAC works to strengthen the human services system and ensure that residents have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Our Mission
The mission of the Inter-Agency Council is to foster collaboration among community partners to enhance service delivery, reduce duplication, and promote the well-being of all Salem County residents. The Council provides a space where agencies can share updates, identify community needs, develop solutions, and support initiatives that make a lasting impact on vulnerable populations — including children, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families experiencing hardship.
What We Do
The Inter-Agency Council meets regularly to exchange information, share best practices, and build partnerships among local nonprofits, government agencies, schools, and faith-based organizations. Together, we:
- Coordinate community services to ensure residents have access to food, housing, mental health care, and family support.
- Facilitate training and information exchange among local providers to improve service quality and efficiency.
- Promote collaboration and advocacy on issues impacting Salem County, such as food security, mental health, and economic stability.
- Host community events and resource fairs that connect residents to services, promote awareness, and strengthen local engagement.
- Support statewide initiatives through partnerships with the New Jersey Department of Human Services and other state and regional networks.
Who We Serve
The IAC represents a broad coalition of service providers and stakeholders who work daily to meet the needs of Salem County’s diverse communities. From youth programs to senior services, from housing assistance to mental health care — our members are committed to ensuring that no resident is left without access to essential support.
Why Our Work Matters
In a time when social and economic challenges continue to grow, collaboration is more important than ever. By aligning efforts, sharing information, and combining resources, the IAC helps strengthen the social safety net across Salem County. Together, we create sustainable pathways for families to achieve stability, empowerment, and hope.
Join Us
The Inter-Agency Council welcomes all community partners who share our vision for a stronger, healthier Salem County.
To learn more or become involved, contact us at Admin@SalemCountyIAC.org.
Get Involved
Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.
