Neighbors Who Care Welcomes Terri O’Herron as New Executive Director
Neighbors Who Care (NWC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping seniors remain independent in their homes, is pleased to announce Terri O’Herron as its new Executive Director.
With more than 30 years of leadership experience in the social services sector, O’Herron brings a deep commitment to serving vulnerable populations and a career shaped by compassion, expertise, and community impact. She is known as a servant leader and has spent the majority of her professional life working in nonprofit organizations—exactly where she believes she belongs.
O’Herron’s background is notably diverse and well-rounded, with professional experience spanning dementia care, mental health, behavioral health, developmental disabilities, home care and more.
Throughout her career, she has worked alongside individuals and families facing life’s most difficult challenges, offering support, resources, and most importantly…HOPE!
Her love and passion for working with older adults began at the young age of 15, when she took a weekend job as a caregiver for an elderly neighbor. By providing that support, this individual could remain safely in her home. Reflecting on her journey, O’Herron realized how her current role connects to where she first began so long ago and commented “it gives me chills.”
“I’ve always known my life’s work needed to make a difference in the lives of others,” O’Herron said.
“Whether at the bedside of someone on hospice or supporting a homeless veteran transition off the streets, I meet people where they are—without judgment—and offer a helping hand.” In addition to providing direct service and holding leadership roles at the state level, she has served her community as a certified instructor offering education in Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Care, Mental Health, Caregiving and Brain Health.
On a personal level, O’Herron has been married for almost 30 years and is the proud parent of four wonderful children. Though originally from Southern California and having spent time in Montana, her family has called Arizona home for 10 years and is no stranger to this community. Not only was their very first family home located near Riggs Road but through the years she has remained active in the community by participating on the Dementia Friendly Task Force in Sun Lakes and Chandler.
Faith is central to O’Herron’s life and leadership, guiding her approach to service with grace. Outside of work, she finds joy in the simple pleasures of life—family and friends, nature (especially the ocean), meaningful conversations, and generous hugs.
O’Herron says Neighbors Who Care feels like a natural fit. “I can’t imagine a better place to be”, she shared. “Our organization has a huge heart and is built on the beautiful model of neighbors helping neighbors. Our volunteers provide free services that allow seniors to remain independent and live longer in their own homes. I believe deeply in this mission and I’m honored to serve as Executive Director.”
When asked about the future of Neighbors Who Care, O’Herron shared her genuine appreciation for the people who make the mission possible. “I am incredibly grateful for the dedicated volunteers, staff, board members, and financial supporters who give so generously of their time, talents, and resources,” she said. “I look forward to working alongside them as we continue to build a bright future together—one that ensures our neighbors are cared for, supported, and able to remain in their homes with dignity.”
-Article written by Neighbors Who Care Board of Directors