Who We Are

Operation Open Arms (OOA), Inc is a private child-placing agency, licensed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky providing foster care and adoption services. OOA has been recognized nationally for its mission of caring for children whose mothers are incarcerated. In March 2003, Cathy Bailey, founder, and Co-Chair of Operation Open Arms received the “2003 Unsung Heroines” award for her dedication to the community. Cathy was nominated for this award by both Senator Mitch McConnell and Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao on behalf of her work with Operation Open Arms.

Meet the Team

  • Julie Barkley

    Executive Director

  • Kate Mulinix

    Office Manager

  • Sarah Bryant

    Case Manager

  • Natalie Shafer

    Contractual Social Worker

  • Kayla Conder

    Contractual Social Worker

  • Sharon Sapienza

    Contractual Social Worker

 Board of Directors

Joe Arnold

Cathy Bailey

Irving Bailey

Shari Hagan

Meredith Hernandez

Gale Lively

John McCarthy, III

Daniel Salmon

Linda Yeager

Honorary Board Members:

Jean Frazier - Dawn Hoffman - Jennie Rees - Karen Sherry