Welcome to our community.
We’re glad you’re here.
Our journey began with the simple desire to make a positive impact. Through the support of our dedicated team and community members, we continue to strive towards our mission every day.
Every milestone, every success story, and every challenge overcome is a testament to the unwavering dedication to our cause. We are here to create change, to uplift, and to empower.
Your involvement is what fuels our progress. Join us as we continue to evolve and grow alongside the compassionate communities of southern Illinois.
Our Team
Megan Ragan, LCSW
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Megan Ragan, LCSW, is the Executive Director of the Southern Illinois Resource and Advocacy Center. With over a decade of experience in southern Illinois child and family serving systems, Megan has a robust background in leadership, grant management, and program development. She has led numerous state and federal grant initiatives through successful implementation and evaluation, and she is passionate about using these skills to bring more resources and support to the community. Megan is a dynamic presenter, known for engaging workshops on a variety of topics including substance use, mental health, trauma, and neurodiversity. She is committed to enhancing services and support in her community through compassionate engagement.
Annmarie Murray
PEER SUPPORT WORKER, B.R.I.C.K. Program
Hi, I'm Annmarie Murray, a Peer Support Worker at SIRAC. I have over two year in recovery from methamphetamine. Helping others in similar situations brings me joy. I have 5 children, but lost custody of 4 due to my addiction. After that, I spiraled further, violating probation and ending up in prison. Even after my release, I continued to use, even during my fifth pregnancy. I thought I didn’t deserve to keep this child, but when my baby was born on May 11, 2022, everything changed.
DCFS got involved, and during a Zoom call, I saw the same judge who terminated my rights for my other children. But this time, Judge Lambert showed me grace. He told me if I failed one drug test, I would lose my baby. That chance gave me hope. I fought for my child, and today, I have full custody of my son. My recovery date is my son’s birthday, and I’ve worked hard to get here. I’m now a single mom, working full-time at this amazing organization.
I’m living proof that recovery is possible, and I’m here to help anyone who needs it. Everyone deserves grace and a second chance, but they have to want it and work for it!
Alisha Moore
Courtney Hish
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Courtney Hish is a lifelong Southern Illinois resident with significant experience in business administration and bookkeeping. When Courtney is not working, she can be found coaching softball, leading the area Girl Scout Service Unit, leading the Happy Hawks Parent Group, or spending time with her family.
RECOVERY CORPS PROJECT COORDINATOR
I have lived in Gallatin County my whole life. I enjoy working with the community and helping those in need. I like to spend time at the lake in my spare time. I am self motivated and push myself to reach the goals that I wish to achieve.
Caleb Mills
RECOVERY CORPS RECOVERY NAVIGATOR
My name is Caleb Mills and I was raised in Shawneetown IL. I am working for Americorps/Recovery Corps as a Recovery Navigator. I am a former addict who struggled with drugs and other addictive behaviors that was negatively impacting my life for over 20 years. Today i no longer struggle with these things because of Gods grace. I made the decision to start living for God and its the best decision ive ever made. My goal is to help people wherever they are in life and show them the grace that God showed me. Being there for people and following through for them in their toughest times no matter what the circumstances are.
Angela Colby-Jackson
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST, PARENTING PARTNERS PROGRAM
Angela, a seasoned educator, joined SIRAC as our Family Engagement Specialist after years of empowering students in the classroom. She has cultivated strong relationships with students and families, always focusing on the holistic needs of children. Angela created inclusive learning environments throughout her teaching career where students thrived academically and personally. She provided tailored support to address individual challenges and collaborated with families to navigate educational systems and access critical resources. Angela is eager to directly support families by connecting them with resources, advocating for their rights, and fostering opportunities for success. Her deep understanding of family dynamics and commitment to positive change guides her work, helping families feel empowered, informed, and equipped for a brighter future.