Shelter CEO To Step Down Amid State Senate Run

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Shelter Youth & Family Services CEO Carina H. Santa Maria will transition from her role in September as she pursues her candidacy for the Illinois State Senate, the organization's Board of Directors announced.

Santa Maria has led the Arlington Heights-based organization since 2018. She is also an Arlington Heights village trustee and previously announced her candidacy for the Illinois State Senate. Current State Sen. Mark Walker, a Democrat from Arlington Heights, has said he will not seek reelection at the end of his current term.

RELATED: Arlington Heights Trustee Declares Candidacy For IL State Senate

Following Santa Maria's earlier campaign announcement, Shelter's board began a planning process aimed at ensuring the organization’s long-term stability, according to the announcement. The board established a committee to oversee the transition process, including a comprehensive executive search.

The board said the transition comes as child welfare providers in Illinois navigate changes in funding, service delivery, workforce challenges and the needs of children and families across the state.

Since joining Shelter, Santa Maria has led the organization through a period of growth, including expanded services, strengthened community partnerships, increased organizational capacity, enhanced financial sustainability and an elevated advocacy role for youth and families throughout Illinois, according to the board.

Shelter recently launched what the organization described as Illinois' first DCFS-licensed residential program dedicated to youth survivors of human trafficking.

"Carina's leadership has been transformational for Shelter and for the countless children and families whose lives have been touched by our services," Lindsay Tintera, president of the Board of Directors, said in the announcement. "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 leadership team, staff and organizational foundation. As part of 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 stability.

"Shelter's mission has always been bigger than any one individual," Santa Maria said. "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 said additional information about the executive search process and transition timeline will be shared in the coming months.

Patch previously reported Santa Maria, who was elected to the Arlington Heights Village Board in April 2025, announced her candidacy for the 27th District Illinois Senate seat after Walker said he would not seek reelection. The 27th District represents portions of the northwest suburbs, including Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Palatine, Prospect Heights and Rolling Meadows.