Darla Poole, CEO

A prime architect of Auberle’s sustained record of growth and success has been Darla Poole, who during the span of a 35-year career at Auberle – most recently as Chief Operating Officer -- has led nearly every major new program and innovation while holding positions of increasing responsibility. Effective July 1, 2025, Darla will succeed John Lydon as Chief Executive Officer. 

“Our mission to build strong individuals, families, and communities is at the heart of everything we do. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to collaborating with our dedicated staff and partners to continue changing lives for generations,” says Darla.  

Aimee Plowman, COO

Succeeding Darla as COO will be Aimee Plowman, who joined Auberle in 2016. Aimee launched the 412 Youth Zone, a transformative program for young people aging out of foster care that has been recognized as the Pennsylvania Older Youth Services Agency of the Year and Independent Living Program of the Year. Darla and Aimee were critical to the rejuvenation of Ward Home, which became a subsidiary of Auberle in 2019.  

“I am excited to step into the COO role, supporting Darla and our team as we expand our reach and deepen our impact,” says Aimee. “The passion and expertise of Auberle’s staff inspire me every day, and together we will continue to find innovative solutions to our region’s most pressing challenges.” 

John Lydon, Director of Strategic Projects and CEO Emeritus

Auberle’s strategic succession planning is key to Auberle’s history of bold organizational evolution. Under the transformational leadership of John Lydon -- who has served as CEO since 2004 and, prior to that, on Auberle’s Boards for more than 20 years -- Auberle has navigated significant change and launched an array of successful initiatives, including: 

• Housing Services, which now numbers nine programs. 

• The Employment Institute, which offers national certifications. 

• The expansion of mental health services into schools and prevention programs.  

• The Family Healing Center, a pioneering residential treatment facility.

• The dramatic expansion of Young Adult Services and Foster Care. 

• Evidence-based programs throughout all of Auberle’s service areas.  

“Together, these initiatives have moved Auberle away from residential services to programs that keep families together and follow young people in their communities to age 24 and beyond,” says John. 

Beginning in July, John will step into a part-time role as Director of Strategic Projects and CEO Emeritus, continuing to support Auberle’s mission and growth. 

“It has been the privilege of my career to lead Auberle and work alongside such talented colleagues,” says John. “I have been involved in Auberle for over 40 years, and I have never been more confident of our future than I am with our current leadership team under Darla's direction." 

Here We Are Now, Entertain Us!

Save-the-Date for the 21st Annual Voices Carry on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m. Please plan to join us for another amazing event at the Westin Pittsburgh, 1000 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222! Our theme is “Music of the 90s.” 

As Auberle’s premier fundraising event of the year, Voices Carry raises vital unrestricted dollars to help us serve thousands of individuals, families, and communities through innovative and holistic programming. Established in 2005, this live music event features a stellar lineup of Pittsburgh musicians, an auction, and dancing all night long! More details to come in the weeks ahead.  

Please Give Today!

When you give to Auberle, your generosity supports effective, comprehensive, and innovative services that change the lives of thousands every day.