The Board of Social Services provides general guidance and consultation for the Department of Social Services (DSS). The Board also advises the county and municipal leaders on policies and plans to improve social conditions of the community. It also appoints and works closely with the Director of Social Services to support the Department’s efforts to: protect vulnerable children and adults; strengthen and preserve families; provide access to health care and better nutrition; and promote economic stability while encouraging personal responsibility. 

Meetings

Board of Social Services meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 4:00 pm in person at the Ground Conference Room at the Department of Social Services- 102 Camp Drive, Pittsboro, NC 27312.

Meeting agendas will be posted seven days prior to the board meeting. Please call DSS with any questions at 919-542-2759.

Agendas and Minutes

Public Input

During each meeting, there is time allowed for public input in order for residents to have an opportunity to speak. Speakers are required to sign up in advance. 

The pubic input session is no more than 30 minutes and speakers are limited to three minutes each and may not give their time to another speaker. Individuals who wish to speak but cannot because of time constraints will be carried into the next meeting and given priority. The Board apologize for the time restrictions but they are necessary to ensure that the board can complete the agenda business. Speakers are welcome to provide their comments in writing. 

Board Members

Two board members are appointed by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners and two are appointed by the State Social Services Commission. Those four members appoint the fifth member. 

Current Board Members:

• Sara Welch, Chair- Appointed by the County Board of Commissioners (term expires 06/30/28)

• Memory Dossenbach, Vice Chair- Appointed by the NC Social Services Commission (term expires 09/30/28)

• Cecil Wilson, Member- Appointed by the Department of Social Services Board of Directors (term expires 06/30/27)

• Peter Varney, Member-Appointed by the County Board of Commissioners (term expires 06/30/26)

• Maria Soto, Member-Appointed by the NC Social Services Commission (term expires 12/13/26)

CONTACT:

Email the Board Members at DSSBoard@chathamcountync.gov

Jennie Kristiansen, Social Services Director, 919-542-2759