New Executive Director brings personal connection to Wellness Place mission

WENATCHEE — Wellness Place, a local nonprofit that supports individuals facing cancer in Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan counties, has named Marissa Collins its new Executive Director.

Collins, a Wenatchee native, brings a wealth of nonprofit experience and a deeply personal connection to the organization's mission. Diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 31 in 2019, Collins has firsthand experience with the impact Wellness Place has on individuals and families navigating cancer.

"I am honored and humbled to take on the role of Executive Director at the Wellness Place," Collins said. "Having been a beneficiary of their services, I understand firsthand the impact this organization has on individuals and families facing cancer. I am committed to building upon the foundation laid by my predecessors and working together to expand services and impact."

Prior to her appointment, Collins served in various roles at the Numerica Performing Arts Center and 501 Consultants. She also coordinated Wellness Place's annual Wine Women & Shoes fundraiser in 2023 before joining the organization's Board of Directors.

Collins replaces interim Executive Director Mary Hart, who helped revitalize the organization following the departure of former Executive Director Julie Lindholm in early 2023.

Casey Vogt, President of the Board of Directors, expressed enthusiasm for Collins' appointment, stating, "Her leadership, coupled with her personal connection to our mission, makes her the ideal candidate to lead our organization into its next chapter of growth and impact."

Collins was officially announced as the new Executive Director at Wellness Place's Wine Women & Shoes annual fundraiser on April 19. The fundraiser raised over $100,000 for the organization's ongoing efforts to provide compassionate support and free resources to those affected by cancer in the region.