I am so honored to serve as the President of the Board of Directors of the Council for Children’s Rights and to work with my esteemed board members. In my over 15 years of volunteering for this organization with the Custody Advocacy Program, I have seen first-hand the positive impact this work has on the lives and futures of children. In the last 5 years of also serving in a Board role, especially during the pandemic, I witnessed time and time again the critical necessity our services and interventions provide to our community’s children. Council is uniquely positioned to advocate for our children in times when significant world events, community decisions, and multiple systemic responses negatively impact the lives of children. We make meaningful and positive change a reality.

For me, it is important that we embrace children as “our” children and that “we” share in the responsibility to improve their lives and restore stability and well-being. I am grateful to recognize that “we” includes our staff, our Board, our numerous volunteers, our dedicated donors, and this incredible community. We all stand strong and committed together for the children that depend on us.

I am proud to continue to support this work. Our services are rooted in addressing both the individualized need of children and seeking reform of systems and policies that impact their journey through life. I stand firmly in the belief that all children deserve to be safe, healthy and educated, and am committed this year to increase their equitable opportunity in this community.

I look forward to this year and building the connections we have in this community. Charlotte’s children are our children and Charlotte’s future. Many thanks for your ongoing support of this work and for caring for our children!

Deb Dilman, Board Chair

CFCR Board Chair 2023-2024