We are pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Foil and Steven Levine to the 2024 board, and acknowledge the dedication and advancement of its continuing board members. The volunteer Board plays a vital role in leading organization strategy and providing governance for our non-profit organization.
Both Steven and Jennifer are active volunteers and participants in CARA’s programs, as well as other races and run clubs throughout the area. Their professional backgrounds in education, policy, design, and engineering, along with their knowledge of CARA, the Chicagoland running community, and their boundless energy, make them the perfect addition to our strong and active Board.
“CARA has again demonstrated that our Power Of The Group™ mantra not only applies to pushing yourself through those tough miles on the road, but also to the hard work done behind the scenes. The dedication of the volunteer Board continues to showcase what can be accomplished when we build bridges and work together to further CARA’s mission. I enthusiastically welcome our new board members and am eager to engage this fantastic group of leaders in service and advocacy for the running community.” - Erika Edmonson, President of CARA’s Board of Directors
We would like to extend sincere appreciation to departing board members Tom Klimmeck and Sidney Anderson. A board member since 2016 and Treasurer since 2020 (interim 2019), Tom was not only instrumental in improving CARA’s finances over the years, but was also critical in many operations, from building out CARA’s warehouse to creating the hydration filling stations. Sid, a community advocate for CARA, brought his expertise and commitment to CARA’s Development Committee and continues to bring his passion, energy and joy to every ‘Go Run™ and training program he participates in.
2024 also ushers in a new era of Board Leadership. Long time Board members Erika Edmonson and Darren DeMatoff have begun their roles as President and Vice President (respectively). Tony Fiore has assumed the role of Treasurer and Jeff Zidell continues as the Board’s trusted Secretary. The new cohesive officer team is already hard at work, committed to building on the many successes of CARA’s recent past.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Erika Edmonson: President
Darren DeMatoff: Vice President
Kerl LaJeune: Immediate Past President
Jeff Zidell: Secretary
Anthony “Tony” Fiore: Treasurer
Dana Anderson Jill Ciminillo
Brace Clement Jennifer Courtney
Jennifer Foil Brett Geschke
Steven Levine Nicholas ‘Niko’ Nicholson
Ann Marie Phaneuf Alexandrea Yeung