Däsha Donald is a transformational leader, community advocate, and bridge-builder dedicated to strengthening Indiana through collaboration, public service, and policy informed by frontline experience. She serves as a Superior Court Case Manager with the RISE Team in Vigo County, a court-based diversion program serving individuals with behavioral health challenges, substance use disorders, homelessness, and justice involvement. Through her work, she helps individuals navigate complex systems while collaborating with community partners to improve access to treatment, housing, and recovery services.
Däsha is deeply committed to serving communities across West Central Indiana. She serves as Co-Chair of the Vigo County Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), strengthening collaboration between public safety, healthcare, and behavioral health partners. She is Chair of the Lotus Center Advisory Board, supporting Indiana’s first low-barrier emergency shelter, and serves as Point-in-Time (PIT) Coordinator for the Homeless Council of the Wabash Valley, leading the region’s annual count of individuals experiencing homelessness. She is also a board member of Mental Health America of West Central Indiana and the Council on Domestic Abuse (CODA), serves on the Recovery Alliance to strengthen recovery services and community collaboration, and serves on the United Way of the Wabash Valley Success by 6 Council, advancing early childhood success and kindergarten readiness. Dasha is entering her third year as a Reading Neighbors volunteer, helping foster a love of reading and early literacy among local elementary students.
A Hoosier for more than 30 years, Däsha is a proud graduate of Vigo County public schools and earned her bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University. She is currently pursuing a dual Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration at the University of Southern Indiana, reflecting her commitment to connecting direct practice with organizational leadership and public policy. She believes the strongest communities are built when lived experience informs public policy, collaboration replaces silos, and every Hoosier has the opportunity to thrive.