Meet our seven new Associate Board members
Let’s hear it for our Cara Associate Board
Every year, we look for leaders ready to roll up their sleeves in order to raise both awareness and support for eradicating relational and financial poverty in Chicago, and beyond.
In late fall, we wrapped up our recruitment process and welcomed the newest members of our already dynamic, mission-driven associate board. Our incoming changemakers explained why they wanted to join our community, what they hope to bring to it, and how our mission serves as a source of great joy. Here’s what they had to say:
What or who inspired you to join the Associate Board and why?
“I first was connected to Cara via a friend who recommended them as an incredible organization that seeks to support job placement in the Chicagoland area. Since then, I have worked with Cara through my position as the Women@ Chicago Community & Social Impact co-chair at Google. I have been continually impressed with Cara and its 360 degree approach with their participants. I am thrilled to be able to join in a more impactful way as an Associate Board member!”
– Abby Klearman, Analytical Lead, Google
“After joining a couple of Cara events, I was able to witness the determination of Cara participants as they tackled challenges of all sizes, fueled by the unwavering support and encouragement of the staff, which ignited a spark within me. It was clear that this wasn’t just another organization; it was a community connected by a shared mission and belief in one another’s potential.”
– Shaina Yatt, M&A Consultant, West Monroe
What is one thing you hope to bring to the Cara community?
“Part of what drew me to Cara was its diverse community- and I really am glad to be another part of what makes Cara so special. I hope that I can bring new perspectives on our city’s LGBTQIA+ Community, and share some light on how we can best support the members of our city who struggle with mental illness- both of which are a large factors of my lived experiences. I have no doubt that the community that Cara has built will be able to inspire a voice of light to those who share those lived experiences as well.”
– James Novack, Senior Associate, KPMG
“My consulting experience has equipped me with strategic problem-solving and collaborative skills, that I am excited to use alongside a fantastic AB team. Additionally, I am bringing the support of my employer, West Monroe, which I hope to use to amplify Cara’s reach and mission.”
– Shaina Yatt, M&A Consultant, West Monroe
How does Cara and its mission motivate you?
“Meeting current and former Cara participants through Morning Motivations and events like the annual Gala and Summer Social have shown me how truly life-changing Cara can be. Seeing these participants, whether at the start of their journey or years into it, genuinely happier because of the effort they are putting in themselves and getting from Cara in return always puts a smile on my face.”
– Bailey Winston, ZS Associates, Associate Consultant
“I believe the strongest path to equity is through economic empowerment, which is directly aligned with Cara’s mission.”
– Max Yu, BMO Bank, Vice President
Who or what brings you joy? Why?
“I’m feeling great joy for my family and chosen family. I know that when things aren’t going well, I can lean on them for guidance or just to help take my mind off things.”
– Jared Pavelske, Director of Grants and Contracts, AIDS Foundation Chicago
“Dancing! I have loved to dance my entire life, in school, in classes, at weddings- anywhere! I have recently returned to those roots. This has also served as a wonderful reminder that the things that bring me the most happiness are simple, and can be done anywhere (with enough confidence).”
– Hannah Paul, Boston Consulting Group, Associate
Keep an eye out for our upcoming events, where you will meet our new members and the rest of the Cara Associate Board!
