Executive Leadership Team

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Gary Huelsmann has served as Chief Executive Officer of Caritas Family Solutions for more than 20 years, leading the organization through significant growth, innovation, and transformation. A passionate advocate for strengthening children, families, and communities, Gary has championed system change that prioritizes prevention, collaboration, and long-term solutions for those in need. He also serves on several statewide nonprofit boards, helping shape policies and initiatives that advance meaningful systems change for children and families across Illinois. Guided by a commitment to building healthy relationships, loving homes, and strong communities, Gary believes lasting change begins with compassion, partnership, and a shared commitment to creating brighter futures for every person served.

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As Chief Financial Officer, Melinda Dall brings more than 43 years of financial leadership experience and a deep commitment to the mission of Caritas Family Solutions. After a successful career with The Boeing Company and CliftonLarsonAllen, she found her true calling in the nonprofit sector, where she could use her expertise to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Since joining Caritas, Melinda has helped strengthen the organization's financial foundation through thoughtful stewardship and strategic leadership. She believes that sound financial decisions make it possible for Caritas to expand its impact and ensure more children, adults, and families receive the care and support they deserve.

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Hope Carbonaro serves as Chief Program Officer of Child Services, providing leadership for a broad continuum of programs that support children, youth, and families. Her oversight includes foster care, kinship care, specialized foster care, family preservation services, Youth Residential Center programs, Pregnancy Care Options and Private Adoption, and Fox River Assisted Living. With more than 35 years of experience in child welfare, Hope is a respected leader whose expertise and unwavering commitment help drive positive outcomes for those served. She is dedicated to ensuring every child and family has the opportunity to experience safety, stability, and the support needed to build a brighter future.

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Erin Hamilton serves as Chief Operating Officer at Caritas Family Solutions, providing leadership for the organization's People & Culture, Office of Technology Innovation (OTI), Performance & Quality Improvement (PQI), and Facilities teams. With nearly 20 years of leadership experience in human resources and organizational operations, Erin brings a people-first approach to strengthening systems, developing talent, and advancing operational excellence. Throughout her career, she has been committed to building strong leaders, fostering positive workplace cultures, and creating the infrastructure that empowers employees to deliver exceptional care and services. Erin believes that when employees feel supported, valued, and equipped to succeed, they can make the greatest impact on the lives of those Caritas serves.

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Ashlee Lambert serves as Chief Development Officer at, leading the organization's fundraising, marketing, communications, and community engagement efforts. With more than 15 years of fundraising experience and a foundation in direct client services, she brings both strategic expertise and a deep understanding of the people and communities Caritas serves. Her experience connecting philanthropy with purpose helps build meaningful partnerships that expand opportunities for children, families, and individuals across Southern Illinois. Ashlee is passionate about inspiring generosity and advancing Caritas Family Solutions' belief that Every Life Deserves Love.

Executive Leadership Team

Gary R. Huelsmann

Melinda A. Dall

Hope Carbonaro

Erin Hamilton

Ashlee Lambert

Mark Becker

Tanya Durrer

Barcus Jackson

Megan Kirk

Lindsey Meese

Stephanie Moore

Stacie Roy

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