FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — June 26, 2025 — Shelter Youth & Family Services is pleased to announce new leadership for its Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2025. Lindsay Tintera has been named the incoming Board President, bringing with her a deep personal commitment to Shelter’s mission and over two decades of strategic leadership in the marketing field.
“Supporting an organization so passionately committed to empowering youth and strengthening families is a true privilege,” said Tintera. “My journey as a foster and adoptive parent has given me profound appreciation for Shelter’s mission, and I’m excited to work alongside our dedicated leaders and staff. Together, I look forward to building strong partnerships within the community to help advance this vital work.”Tintera currently serves as Vice President of Marketing at Árachas Group Insurance, where she leads a team focused on strategic planning, communications, marketing technology, and data analytics. Her background spans healthcare, food distribution, and insurance industries, providing her with a breadth of insight and business acumen that will support Shelter’s continued growth and innovation.
“Lindsay is stepping into the role of Board President at a pivotal time for Shelter,” said Shelter CEO, Carina H. Santa Maria. “Her thoughtful leadership, strategic mindset, and deep personal connection to our mission make her uniquely suited to guide us forward. I’m grateful for her partnership and energized by the strength of our incoming Board leadership as we continue to grow, innovate, and advocate for youth and families across Illinois.”
The Executive Board will see the following leadership transitions: Rebecca Helkowski, outgoing Board President, will transition to the role of Vice President, while Dr. Nina Mcilree, M.D., will now serve as Board Secretary. JJ Comiskey will continue in his role as Board Treasurer.
Santa Maria recognized the invaluable contributions of outgoing President Rebecca Helkowski, stating, “Rebecca has led Shelter through a period of significant growth and impact, including the milestone of our 50th anniversary. We are so grateful for her strong leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to the children and families we serve.”
Tintera takes the helm at a critical time for Shelter Youth & Family Services as the organization prepares to open Illinois’ first DCFS-licensed home for child survivors of human trafficking this fall in Palatine. Shelter is also expanding its clinical services to provide mental health therapy to underserved communities in Cook County.
To learn more about Shelter Youth & Family Services or inquire about Board involvement, please contact Christine Roerig, PCM, Director of Marketing and Communications, at 847-595-0131 or croerig@www.shelter-inc.org.
About Shelter Youth & Family Services
Founded in 1975, Shelter is a Chicagoland leader in delivering emotional and physical care to youth in crisis. Shelter provides emergency housing, transitional living, foster care, home visiting, and clinical support services. Shelter is the only agency in Illinois offering such a comprehensive, community-based continuum of care for at-risk children and families. Learn more at www.www.shelter-inc.org.
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