Arden Shore CEO named one of year’s notable Latino leaders

WAUKEGAN – Arden Shore Child & Family Services announced Dr. Dora Maya, president and CEO, has been recognized by Crain’s Chicago Business as one of its 2024 Notable Latino Leaders.

The distinguished honor celebrates Maya’s 25 years of visionary leadership at Arden Shore and her exceptional contributions to child welfare and mental health services in Illinois, according to a news release.

Maya has redefined child welfare services through her remarkable leadership to prioritize equity, cultural inclusivity and long-term well-being, according to the release.

“Dora provides true dedication, intentionality and advocacy on behalf of children, youth and families,” Andrea Durbin, CEO of the Illinois Collaboration on Youth, said in the release. “Her biggest strength as a leader is standing up for the values driving the collective mission and vision to promote living in a world where they can reach their full potential and thrive.”

Under Maya’s leadership, Arden Shore has become a leading provider of bilingual and culturally responsive services for children and families, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities. Maya’s achievements include launching a behavioral health program that has become a teaching site for bilingual Medicaid counseling services, overseeing a 120% growth in Intact Family Preservation Services and expanding Foster Care by 90%.

Arden Shore is a $10 million organization. Maya manages a team of 50 employees serving thousands of children and families annually.

“Dr. Maya consistently energizes and inspires her team with her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to child welfare,” Shelly Christian, senior vice president at Old National Bank and Arden Shore’s Board president-elect, said in the release. “Her deep insights, charisma and passion make her a standout leader who prioritizes community and leads by example daily.”

An immigrant from Cali, Colombia, and a former foster parent, Maya profoundly understands the challenges underserved communities face. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for families with limited resources and those affected by the child welfare system.

Her impact extends beyond Arden Shore through active participation in organizations such as the Illinois Collaboration on Youth, Illinois Partners for Human Service and the Latino Policy Forum.

The award highlights Maya’s decades-long career as a tireless advocate for vulnerable children and families, her leadership in building collaborative partnerships and her commitment to systemic improvements in child welfare and mental health services.

To learn more about Arden Shore and its mission to rebuild children’s lives in a caring community, visit www.ardenshore.com.