Ali McFarland
Lincoln
Summary
Experienced leader with a strong track record at CEDARS, moving from direct care to program leadership. Known for building strong teams, handling crises, and driving program improvements through data and collaboration. Skilled in trauma informed care and youth advocacy, with a focus on family engagement and community partnerships. Committed to creating inclusive environments and retaining great staff.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Program Director
CEDARS
07.2024 - Current
- Provide leadership and supervision for direct care staff, building team capacity through coaching and professional development to strengthen program outcomes.
- Coordinate youth placements in partnership with probation officers, DHHS, and community partners, ensuring smooth transitions and positive outcomes.
- Implement data driven practices, reporting outcomes, and using insights to inform decision making and improve shelter operations.
- Advance organizational diversity and engagement efforts by leading initiatives that enhance staff retention, youth belonging, and collaboration with other programs.
Case Manager
CEDARS
11.2022 - 06.2024
- Managed caseload of youth ages 12–18, developing individualized service and safety plans while coordinating care with families, schools, probation, and DHHS.
- Provided crisis intervention and advocacy, addressing behavioral, emotional, and trauma related needs to ensure stability and positive youth development.
- Facilitated case reviews and discharge planning, ensuring smooth transitions to foster care, family reunification, or independent living through collaborative goal setting and resource connection.
Family Partner (Basic Center)
CEDARS
04.2021 - 10.2022
- Supported non system involved youth in shelter placement, providing short term case management, family engagement, and stabilization services to prevent entry into higher levels of care.
- Delivered in home prevention services for families, strengthening protective factors, improving parent and youth relationships, and connecting households to community based resources to reduce out of home placements.
Education
Master of Science - Organizational Leadership
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE03-2025
Bachelor of Science - Child Protection And Juvenile Justice
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE03-2021
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
Southeast Community College
Lincoln, Nebraska, NE12-2017
Skills
- Staff supervision and development
- Strategic planning and implementation
- Interagency collaboration
- Trauma informed care and behavioral interventions
Timeline
Assistant Program Director
CEDARS
07.2024 - Current
Case Manager
CEDARS
11.2022 - 06.2024
Family Partner (Basic Center)
CEDARS
04.2021 - 10.2022
Master of Science - Organizational Leadership
Bellevue University
Bachelor of Science - Child Protection And Juvenile Justice
Bellevue University
Associate of Science - Criminal Justice
Southeast Community College
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