Trisha Gordon is the Chief Growth Officer for the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition in the St. Louis region, where she supports addressing the evolving needs of the community affected by foster care. After aging out of care at 21 and advocating for foster and adoptive care youth for 30 plus years, Trisha’s journey has come full circle. The organization is dedicated to establishing permanency in the lives of children affected by foster care by actively engaging in the recruitment and support of foster and adoptive families within the metropolitan St. Louis region. With a team of 96 dedicated employees overseeing 27 programs, the Coalition focuses on bridging gaps and developing programs to ensure that children in foster care receive optimal care and advocacy. By replicating successful initiatives, the organization is reshaping the child welfare system for the better.

Trisha Gordon has over 30 years of experience, having served as Vice President of Community Investment with United Way of Greater St. Louis. She oversaw more than $42 million in investments that supported over 160 nonprofit agencies within the health and human service sector throughout a 16-county footprint. Trisha’s expertise lies in strengthening capacity, enhancing performance, and promoting collaborative impact. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Human Resources, and certifications in Entrepreneurship and Information System. Trisha is trained in the Baldrige Excellence Framework and Criteria.

Trisha is a St. Louis resident and serves on several local Boards. She also supports several community-based organizations including Girls in the Know, The Sophia Project, Marian Middle School Graduate Support Committee, It’s Your Birthday, Toastmasters International, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.