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, IL — July 30, 2025 — Shelter Youth & Family Services proudly announces that its Chief Executive Officer, Carina H Santa Maria, has declared her candidacy for the Illinois State Senate in the 2026 election.
A recognized advocate for youth and families, Santa Maria has spent her career championing the needs of children, working parents, immigrants, and individuals facing systemic barriers. Since joining Shelter as CEO, she has led the agency through a period of transformative growth, amplifying its impact across Illinois through programs that address homelessness, foster care, human trafficking, and trauma-informed care.
“This decision comes from a place of deep commitment and service,” said Santa Maria. “Throughout my career, I’ve stepped up where I’m needed most—whether that’s leading a nonprofit or holding public office. As a State Senator, I hope to bring the same compassion, creativity, and accountability to Springfield that I’ve brought to my work at Shelter.”
While she prepares for her campaign, Santa Maria will continue to serve as CEO of Shelter Youth & Family Services through at least the next year. A thoughtful leadership transition plan is already in development to ensure the organization remains strong and stable through this next chapter.
Board President, Lindsay Tintera, speaking on behalf of Shelter’s Board of Directors, shared support for the announcement: “We are incredibly proud of Carina’s decision to run. Her leadership has been nothing short of transformational. While we will miss her, we are confident that her voice in Springfield will be a powerful force for positive change.”
Shelter Youth & Family Services remains focused on its mission to end the cycle of abuse and neglect and will continue delivering vital services to youth and families throughout the region.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact Christine Roerig, PCM, Director, Marketing and Communications, 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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