RUNAWAY AND HOMELESS YOUTH
A Program of Catholic Charities Herkimer County
Meet Our Staff
Who We Are
Trisha Alford
Program Director
I've been proud to be part of Catholic Charities since 2015. I first began my journey working with the Herkimer County Prevention Council. It was an incredible experience that sparked my passion for youth and family services. 2021, I took on a new challenge with the Youth Engagement Services Program. I had the opportunity to lead a Youth Advisory Council, organize youth/family engagement activities, and coordinate the Herkimer County Youth Summit, my favorite event that brings young people together to share their voices and ideas.
Since 2023, I’ve been serving as the Director of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program. In this role, I oversee day-to-day operations and work directly with youth in need, helping to provide them with safety, support, and a path forward. I’m lucky to work with an incredible team that not only brings passion and heart to everything we do—but also fully supports all of my wild and crazy ideas!
Outside of work, I cherish every moment I get to spend with my daughter, who is now a sophomore in college. I also love cozy nights at home watching scary movies with my dog, Tete, and I never pass up the chance to travel and explore somewhere new.
315-894-9917 ext. 227
Teira Davis
Case Manager / Crisis Coordinator
I’ve been with the Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) program at Catholic Charities since November 2014 and have served as the Crisis Coordinator since 2020. In my role, I handle many of the crisis/hotline calls and work closely with local agencies to support youth in our community. I’ve been actively involved in a wide range of outreach events, not only for the RHY Program, but also on behalf of the entire Catholic Charities of Herkimer County agency. RHY is a vital program, one of a kind in the surrounding counties, and I'm proud to help improve the lives of the youth we serve. The work is challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding to know I’m making a difference.
Outside of work, I love reading fantasy novels, cooking, baking, and spending time with my daughter Aurora, our dachshund Olive, and the rest of our lively pet crew. Fall is my favorite season, and I hope to travel more—starting with the U.S., then Ireland and Australia someday.
315-894-9917 ext. 238
Carmen Smith
Case Manager / Outreach Coordinator
Hi everyone! My name is Carmen, and I’m excited to join the team as the new Runaway and Homeless Youth Case Manager and Outreach Coordinator.
In this role, I’m really looking forward to supporting the youth in our community and helping those in need. Whether it's through services offered by The Runaway and Homeless Youth Program, The Catholic Charities of Herkimer County organization or connecting people with the right resources elsewhere, I’m here to be a helping hand and an advocate.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my dog, Pete—he is always up for an adventure! I also enjoy staying active and spending time at the gym whenever I can.
315-894-9917 ext. 225