FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shelter Youth and Family Services is a nonpartisan charitable organization and does not take a position in support of or against any candidate for public office.
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. — June 22, 2026 — The Board of Directors of Shelter Youth & Family Services announced today that Chief Executive Officer Carina H. Santa Maria will transition from her role in September 2026 as she pursues her candidacy for the Illinois State Senate.
Following her earlier announcement of candidacy in mid-2025, the Board began to implement a thoughtful and deliberate planning process to ensure the organization’s long-term strength and stability. The Board established a committee to oversee a transition process rooted in Shelter’s mission, values, and strategic priorities, including a comprehensive executive search.
The Board acknowledges that this leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for both Shelter and the broader child welfare system in Illinois, as providers navigate significant changes in funding, service delivery, workforce challenges, and the evolving needs of children and families across the state.
Since joining Shelter in 2018, Santa Maria has led the organization through a period of significant growth, innovation, and impact. Under her leadership, Shelter expanded services across the child welfare continuum, strengthened community partnerships, increased organizational capacity, enhanced financial sustainability, and elevated its role as a leading advocate for youth and families throughout Illinois.
Most notably, Shelter recently launched Illinois’ first DCFS-licensed residential program dedicated to youth survivors of human trafficking—a ground-breaking initiative that addresses a critical gap in care for some of the state’s most vulnerable children.
“Carina’s leadership has been transformational for Shelter and for the countless children and families whose lives have been touched by our services,” said Lindsay Tintera, President of the Board of Directors. “While we are incredibly proud of her continued commitment to public service, we are equally committed to ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition that builds upon the strong foundation she has created. The Board is grateful for Carina’s ongoing partnership and remains focused on advancing Shelter’s mission and future growth.”
The Board expressed confidence in Shelter’s experienced leadership team, dedicated staff, and strong organizational foundation. In alignment with the transition plan, Santa Maria has been working closely with Kristen Daniels, Chief Development Officer, who will assume expanded responsibilities in the coming months to support continuity and organizational stability through this leadership change.
“Shelter’s mission has always been bigger than any one individual,” said Santa Maria. “I am deeply proud of what our team has accomplished together and am confident that Shelter is well-positioned for continued growth and impact. I remain fully committed to supporting a successful transition and ensuring the organization continues to thrive.”
Shelter Youth & Family Services remains steadfast in its mission to protect children, strengthen families, and build brighter futures for youth throughout the communities it serves.
Additional information regarding the executive search process and transition timeline will be shared in the coming months.
About Shelter Youth & Family Services
Founded in 1975, Shelter Youth & Family Services is a Chicagoland leader in providing emotional and physical care to youth in crisis. Shelter delivers a comprehensive continuum of community-based services, including emergency housing, transitional living, foster care, home visiting, support for survivors of human trafficking, and clinical support programs. Shelter is the only agency in Illinois offering such a broad range of integrated services for at-risk children, youth, and families.
For more information, visit www.shelter-inc.org
Media inquiries: Lindsay Tintera, Shelter Youth & Family Services Board President
