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From Our Board President 
CFS names New Executive Director

Dear Friend of CFS,


I am pleased to share that Lisa Drake will join Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan as our new Executive Director beginning September 1, 2026.


Lisa brings more than 18 years of nonprofit executive leadership experience, with much of her career focused on child advocacy and supporting children and families involved in the child welfare system. The Board was especially impressed by her leadership experience, her thoughtful approach to developing people, and her commitment to building strong relationships with staff, boards, donors, and community partners. We are confident Lisa will build on CFS’s strong foundation while taking the time to learn from our team, understand our culture, and connect with the communities we serve.


As we welcome Lisa, we are also deeply grateful to Gina for her leadership and service to CFS. We hope you will join us at our annual Under the Moon + Stars Gala, where friends and supporters will have an opportunity to wish Gina well and welcome Lisa to the CFS community.


The gala will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Aurora Cellars. The evening will include dinner from S2S, a signature cocktail by Tonic & Lime, live music from The Broom Closet Boys, and a thoughtfully curated auction, all in support of the children and families served by CFS.


Please visit the gala website to purchase tickets.


We would be delighted to celebrate this important transition with you.


Thank you for your continued friendship and support of CFS. We look forward to beginning this next chapter together.


Warmly,


Kaylee Simerson


President, Board of Directors

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan

Welcome Lisa Drake!


Lisa brings a deep commitment to children and families and a passion for building strong, connected organizations. We’re excited to welcome her to CFS and introduce her to the many donors, volunteers, partners, and friends who make our work possible.



Honor Gina’s Legacy With a Gift to CFS


As Gina Aranki prepares to retire after 25 years of extraordinary leadership, we invite you to honor her dedication with a gift to Child & Family Services.


Your donation will continue the work Gina has championed—providing safety, support, and hope to children, youth, adults, and families across northern Michigan.


To give in Gina’s honor, you may donate online with the button below or send a check to:

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan

3785 Veterans Drive

Traverse City, MI 49684

(Please note “In honor of Gina Aranki.”)


Thank you for celebrating her legacy with us.

CFS Foster Care, Licensing, Adoption, Respite and Behavioral Health programs are accredited by CARF International, a rigorous, voluntary peer review which holds us to the highest standards of programing and governance.

CFS has earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the highest honor for financial health and transparency.

Candid has awarded CFS its highest honor for organizational transparency, reflecting our commitment to integrity and accountability.

Connect With Us

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan

3785 Veterans Drive, Traverse City | (231) 946-8975

3434 M-119, Ste F, Harbor Springs | (231) 347-4463


  cfs@cfs3L.org   |  www.cfsnwmi.org 

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