HelpLine Appoints Dr. Tonia Pace as New Executive Director
Delaware, OH — HelpLine, a local nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the emotional health and wellness of the community, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Tonia Pace as its new Executive Director.
Dr. Pace comes to HelpLine with over 20 years of mental health, social services and nonprofit leadership experience demonstrated in her prior roles as the Executive Director of Family House and Director of Social Services and Program Development at The Salvation Army in Toledo. She has a distinguished track record in program development, strategic planning, and cultivating inclusive, mission-driven teams. Her experience aligns closely with HelpLine’s core services and values, which include supporting individuals facing crises, connecting the community with local resources, and promoting overall mental health and well-being.
“I am deeply honored to join HelpLine as the Executive Director and am eager to work alongside an organization that has provided vital resources to our community for over 50 years,” said Dr. Pace. “Together, we will continue to build on HelpLine’s legacy of compassionate, accessible support, expanding our reach and impact for those who need us most.”
Dr. Pace holds a Doctor of Human Services from Capella University, a Master of Public Administration and Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Bowling Green State University. Her extensive academic and leadership expertise suits her well to guide HelpLine through its next chapter of growth and community engagement.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Tonia Pace as the new Executive Director of HelpLine,” said Jane Martin, Chair of the Board of Directors.” Dr. Pace’s commitment to advocacy and her experience in leading impactful programs will be invaluable as we look to strengthen and expand our services.”
Since 1970, HelpLine has offered a range of services and programs, including a 24/7 crisis hotline and text line, emergency support and follow-up services, school and community-based prevention programs, sexual assault support and advocacy, and volunteer initiatives. Under Dr. Pace’s leadership, HelpLine aims to further expand the reach of its services, build partnerships, and engage the community in new and impactful ways.
Dr. Pace is also deeply involved in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Aurora Project, Inc. and National Alliance on Mental Illness Greater Toledo. She also served as the former president of Toledo Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Pace anticipates continuing her service upon relocating to Delaware.
Dr. Pace succeeds Susan Hanson, who is retiring from the role after 29 years of distinguished service to the organization and the communities it serves. She officially begins December 9, 2024, becoming HelpLine’s third Executive Director and the first woman of color to lead the eight-county agency in its 54-year history.
About HelpLine
As the community’s only 24/7 resource, we are the go-to for supporting and empowering change. Our highly trained specialists offer compassionate support to help meet the needs of anyone in crisis, connecting them with the right resources and empowering them to thrive. Our prevention programs address suicide and depression, sexual assault, child sexual abuse and family violence to influence change in our community. These programs are rooted in our relationships with local non-profits and agencies, giving us the connections and knowledge to get community members the support, education, and volunteer opportunities they’re looking for. For more information, visit: helplinedelmor.org
Contact:
Tamika Vinson, Marketing and Development Director
HelpLine
P: 740.363.1835, ext. 305
F: 740.369.0358
E: tvinson@helplinedelmor.org
W: helplinedelmor.org