Kasey Parker, B.A.

Kasey Parker was the second employee hired in 2006 as the Associate Director of the Mental Health Association of Nebraska (MHA). In July of 2016, she was promoted to Executive Director. Kasey has assisted in the development and implementation of Nebraska’s first peer-directed and nationally accredited (CARF) programs and is currently the largest peer-run organization in the Midwest, employing approximately sixty-three peer specialists. These programs include: The H.O.P.E. Supported Employment Program, the peer respite Keya House, and the law enforcement referral program. Most recently Kasey has worked with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, Nebraska Parole Administration, and Nebraska State Probation to develop and implement peer operated re-entry services. In 2018 the peer-run transitional home for people reentering the community expanded from a five-bedroom home to a 20-bedroom home under the direction of Kasey. Kasey also identifies as a person with lived experience, experiencing both mental health and substance use challenges.