With more than three decades working in youth mental health, Barb Saunders brings experience and a fresh perspective as the new executive director of Outreach Teen & Family Services.
Saunders, who officially stepped into the position in March of this year, began her career in mental health at Wesley Family Services, a nonprofit serving more than 20,000 individuals in Southwestern Pennsylvania annually through behavioral health services. Her early work included direct service with elementary-aged children and program management.
“I always wanted to work with children,” Saunders said. “I wanted that opportunity to work more intimately, one-on-one with small groups and youth and their families.”
Over time, Saunders expanded her focus to school-based mental health services. She helped implement programs across several local districts, at a time when schools were seeking alternatives to out-of-district placements.
“It was costly and also not necessarily beneficial. You’re removing kids from their home communities,” Saunders explained. “So they were coming to us saying, ‘Can you build this in our school?’”
Saunders also has prior experience with Outreach, having served on its board of directors for a year and half before stepping in as executive director.
“The board and the staff are just so warm and caring,” she said. “That culture is so important to me. I’m honored to be able to be a part of this organization.”
As she takes on her new role, Saunders said one of her top priorities is preserving that sense of warmth and support while also planning for growth. One avenue for growth will come from a new comprehensive community needs assessment, which will help the nonprofit better serve families.
Sometimes staff believes they know what the community needs, but then the turnout tells a different story, Saunders explained. She said Outreach will go directly to youth, families and community members to understand what is most needed, whether that’s one-on-one support, groups, workshops or something else entirely. She expects that process to begin in the second half of 2026.
During her first year as executive director, Saunders also plans to establish clear priorities for Outreach and secure funding to develop services.
“Ten years from now, we want to be in a place where Outreach is not a hidden gem,” she added. “Not only in Mt. Lebanon, but in other communities as well.” That could include expanding partnerships in the South Hills and into Washington County, while continuing collaboration with schools and municipalities.
Saunders recognizes the challenges facing youth are complex and constantly evolving. She cited anxiety, depression and the negative impacts of social media as top issues. She’s interested in expanding youth-driven initiatives, such as Outreach’s College Crew podcast and youth advisory board, to give young people a stronger voice in shaping programming.
Outside of work, Saunders is a former marathon runner, who now stays active through yoga, biking and group fitness classes. She and her husband, Bill, have two adult children, Hayley and Ryan, and a newly adopted kitten.
As she settles into her new position, Saunders said she remains focused on supporting both the organization’s clients and staff.
“I couldn’t be more proud of our staff and the work they do,” she said. “Their energy and their creativity are just amazing to see.”