What is an Early Intervention Advocate?
Early Intervention Advocates (EIAs) are college-educated, credentialed professionals appointed by Hamilton County Superior Court 1, uniquely qualified to support and guide at-risk youth and their families. Employed by Hamilton County, EIAs work within the Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program (HCYAP) and serve six school districts: Carmel, Fishers, Hamilton Heights, Sheridan, Noblesville, and Westfield. Under the leadership of HCYAP Director Tricia Akers, these advocates collaborate closely with local partners to provide tailored, community-centered support for youth facing challenging life circumstances.
Each EIA is deeply embedded in their respective community, drawing on their extensive training and expertise to build relationships and design individualized support plans for at-risk youth. They work directly with families to address specific challenges and help young people develop strengths, skills, and resilience. EIAs take a strengths-based, compassionate approach, developing plans that are voluntary, confidential, and entirely free to families.
Youth are referred to an EIA through local sources such as school counselors, the Prosecutor’s Office, law enforcement, the Department of Child Services (DCS), therapists, and pediatricians, as well as self-referrals from families. For referrals that come through the Prosecutor’s Office, often for minor offenses like truancy or incorrigibility, EIAs may introduce behavior contracts to help youth avoid further involvement in the legal system. By connecting families with essential resources and providing ongoing support, EIAs help youth achieve lasting, positive change. If a family declines or a plan is unsuccessful, the case may be returned to the Prosecutor’s Office as a last resort.
Beyond individual support, EIAs play a critical role in maintaining and strengthening partnerships with local organizations—schools, businesses, volunteers, donors, and service agencies. These connections allow EIAs to provide youth with a robust support network and essential services, often creating new resources when necessary. Their efforts are guided by the principle of “whatever it takes” to ensure youth and families receive the support they need to succeed.
As appointed Hamilton County employees, EIAs bring their specialized training and expertise to the role, with a commitment to helping youth thrive. They are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and dedication needed to make a real impact on the lives of Hamilton County’s young people. By working alongside families and empowering them to take ownership of their progress, EIAs build stronger, more resilient communities and create pathways for brighter futures.
Early Intervention Advocates
Brandy Egan
Brandy grew up in Northern Hamilton County, graduating from Hamilton Heights in 1998.
After high school, she attended Ball State University where she received her BS in Criminal Justice. After graduating College, she started her career with the Sheriff’s Office at the Juvenile Services Center, as a Corrections Officer. Within a few years, Brandy was promoted to Sergeant and supervised accreditation, training, and programming for the building and its staff.
After thirteen years working in the corrections setting, she decided it was time to find a career that allowed her to work with youth in a more positive setting. She started at NYAP in 2016 and has never looked back. Brandy’s favorite saying is “It takes a village” and it’s the driving force behind her work as an EIA.
When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Brandy resides in Fishers with her husband, daughter, and their dog, Frankie.
Michelle Schmidt
Phone: 317-565-7241
Michelle Schmidt is a dedicated advocate for the Noblesville community with over 16 years of experience in social work and education. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University in 2008 and completed her master’s in Public Administration in 2023 from Purdue, which further solidified her expertise in community development. Currently serving as an Early Intervention Advocate for the Noblesville Youth Assistance Program (NYAP), Michelle guides families in navigating the parenthood journey and connecting them to vital resources. She is also a participant in the Hamilton County Leadership Academy’s Class of 2025.
Outside of work, Michelle is actively involved in community organizations like the Noblesville Diversity Coalition, the Noblesville Preservation Alliance, and SERVE Noblesville, where she serves as President. A resident of Noblesville since 2009, Michelle and her husband, are raising their two daughters who attend Noblesville Schools. She enjoys cheering on her girls at soccer games, traveling, and hiking with her family.