About WACC
Our mission is to promote child safety and well-being, and to prevent child maltreatment, abuse, and neglect through educational service and programs for children, parents, community members, and youth-serving professionals throughout Washtenaw County.
WACC is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion throughout our work and community. Click here to read our Community Agreement.
Our History
1975
WACC is formed as the Washtenaw County Coordination Council for Children to address inter-disciplinary challenges regarding children and youth
1983
The Michigan Children’s Trust Fund designated WACC as the authority on establishing program development for the prevention of child abuse and neglect
1999
In partnership with University of Michigan athletes, the Shaken Baby Syndrome project began to address the prominence of abusive head trauma
2020
After 45 years of providing comprehensive prevention across Washtenaw County, over 12,000 lives are changed annually as a result of Washtenaw Area Council for Children’s programs
1975
WACC is formed as the Washtenaw County Coordination Council for Children to address inter-disciplinary challenges regarding children and youth
1983
The Michigan Children’s Trust Fund designated WACC as the authority on establishing program development for the prevention of child abuse and neglect
1999
In partnership with University of Michigan athletes, the Shaken Baby Syndrome project began to address the prominence of abusive head trauma
2017
Across Washtenaw County over 11,000 lives are changed annually as a result of Washtenaw Area Council for Children’s five core education programs
1975
WACC is formed as the Washtenaw County Coordination Council for Children to address inter-disciplinary challenges regarding children and youth
1983
The Michigan Children’s Trust Fund designated WACC as the authority on establishing program development for the prevention of child abuse and neglect
1999
In partnership with University of Michigan athletes, the Shaken Baby Syndrome project began to address the prominence of abusive head trauma
2017
Across Washtenaw County over 11,000 lives are changed annually as a result of Washtenaw Area Council for Children’s five core education programs
Washtenaw Area Council for Children is integrated deeply in our community, and we've been that way for a while. A modest start has evolved into a far-reaching, impactful presence. Throughout our 5 programs, we proudly serve every stage of the life spectrum.
Want to help us on our mission?
Our Team
Executive Director —————————
Tim Richey
Tim Richey has supported youth in Michigan through out-of-school programs for more than 25 years. He served as Chief Executive Officer for the Detroit Police Athletic League beginning in January 2012, and he led the agency for seven and a half years before resigning in June 2019. Prior to that, he served in a variety of capacities in support of out-of-school programs, including fundraising, operations, and direct program service. During his time as CEO at PAL, he managed a team of 35 paid staff, oversaw a budget of $3 million annually, and grew participation every year. His tenure culminated in the successful $20 million Kids at the Corner campaign and the construction of Detroit PAL’s new stadium and headquarters at the famed corner of Michigan and Trumbull.
Mr. Richey was awarded the Eleanor Josaitis Unsung Hero award from the Detroit Free Press and Metropolitan Affairs Coalition in 2017 for his outstanding work on behalf of Detroit youth, and he received the Crystal Apple award in 2011 as an outstanding educator by the College of Education at Michigan State University.
Mr. Richey continues to champion programs and initiatives that support youth throughout Michigan.
Program Director —————————
Robin Batten
Having been an advocate for incarcerated women and an educator for children's church groups, Robin is meticulously interlaced in our community - a trait essential for her role.
Office Manager —————————
Susan Usher
Accomplished in charitable works, Susan partners closely with youth as a mentor and coach. Her zest for positive youth development lends itself well to orchestrating our inner workings.
Accountant—————————
Sherry Cogswell
Sherry retired from the University of Michigan in 2021, after a successful career in public accounting and financial management. Sherry volunteers her services as our accountant, as she believes it's important to give back to the community and support programs that make a fundamental difference
Fund Development Coordinator
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Christie Lypka
Christie has been in the nonprofit sector for thirty years advocating for children who were victims of child abuse and neglect and teenagers struggling with mental illnesses. She is passionate about child abuse prevention and looks forward to bringing her fund development skills to WACC.
