The Health District of Northern Larimer County’s leadership team has two new program directors. Kristen Cochran-Ward was promoted from Connections Team program manager to Director of Mental Health and Substance Use Connections/CAYAC (Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Connections). She is a licensed clinical social worker who has worked at the Health District for six years. 

Connections is currently working with SummitStone Health Partners to operate a free 24/7 COVID-19 emotional support line for Larimer County residents struggling with mental health or substance use concerns during the public health crisis. In addition, Connections helps adults and families find the answers, options, and support they need for behavioral health.

Brian Ferrans now directs the Community Impact Team (CIT), working with Health District partner organizations and agencies to make systemic improvements in the community's approach to behavioral health services in northern Larimer County. Ferrans’ team is running the COVID-19 Isolation, Recovery, and Quarantine centers in Fort Collins and Loveland for the unhoused population and those without anywhere else to go during the pandemic, among other projects. He served as manager of Strategy & Implementation for Behavioral Health with CIT for the past three years.

Meanwhile, longtime Director of Community Impact Lin Wilder has transitioned into a new role as Special Projects Director. Wilder has a 24-year tenure with the Health District.