Carina H santa Maria
Executive Director @Shelter Youth & Family Services
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WORK HISTORY
Executive Director @Shelter Youth & Family Services
Arlington Heights, IL, US
Led Shelter’s growth from a $1.8M to $6.7M organization, with a strategic plan to exceed $10M by 2026.Expanded child welfare, foster care, and youth homelessness programs across multiple counties.Oversaw major capital projects, including Illinois\' first DCFS-approved CSEC home for trafficked youth.Modernized Shelter’s operational infrastructure, from finance and HR to fundraising and technology.Secured transformational public and private funding partnerships through strategic fundraising efforts.Built a mission-driven culture focused on DEI, innovation, compliance, and results.Advocated for key legislative and policy initiatives impacting youth and families.
EDUCATION
Dominican University
Masters
University of Tampa
Bachelors
SKILLS
ABOUT CARINA H SANTA MARIA
Passionate leader. Strategic builder. Fierce advocate for people and community. As CEO of Shelter, Inc, and Village Trustee for Arlington Heights, I bring vision, energy, and operational excellence to every table I sit at. I thrive at the intersection of social impact, business growth, and public service, leading organizations and initiatives that create meaningful, lasting change. At Shelter, Inc, I\'ve grown our organization from a $1.8M to a $10M powerhouse in six years — with plans to cross $15M in several years. I lead a dynamic team focused on child welfare, youth homelessness, and community advocacy, delivering services that change lives every day. As Village Trustee, I am committed to building a thriving, inclusive Arlington Heights — bringing a social worker’s heart and a CEO’s mind to local government. I advocate for smart growth, affordable housing, fiscal responsibility, and strengthening our community fabric. I believe leadership is about bold vision, operational discipline, and relentless heart. Whether it’s driving nonprofit expansion, strengthening governance, building coalitions, or shaping policy, I focus on delivering real results for real people. Always leading with: Strategic Growth Mindset Strong Financial and Operational Stewardship Community-First Governance Collaborative Team Building Relentless Advocacy for Vulnerable Populations Let’s connect — I’m always ready to collaborate with those who are passionate about building stronger organizations, stronger communities, and stronger futures.
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