FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shelter, Inc. Welcomes Two New Board Members: Rian Spencer and Arlen S. Gould
Arlington Heights, IL – January 7, 2025 – Shelter, Inc., a leading child welfare agency dedicated to providing safety, stability, and support to children and families in crisis, is pleased to announce the addition of two remarkable community leaders to its Board of Directors: Rian Spencer and Arlen S. Gould.
Rian Spencer, Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor at Fifth Third Private Bank, brings over 20 years of experience in financial services to Shelter, Inc. As a trusted advisor in the Chicago region, Rian has a strong background in wealth management and strategic financial planning. In addition to her professional expertise, she serves on boards of the Walter E. Heller College of Business at Roosevelt University, the National Council of Jewish Women, and Roosevelt University Women’s Leadership Council Advisory Board, as well as on the Development Committee of The Lilac Tree. Rian is also the founder of the Women’s Innovation Network, which is comprised of female professionals in the Northern suburbs. Rian received her BA in Spanish at Ohio University and earned her MBA from Roosevelt University. She has two children and lives in Buffalo Grove. Rian’s deep commitment to community service and her leadership in the financial sector will be invaluable assets to Shelter, Inc. as it continues to expand its reach and impact.
“I am honored to serve on the Board of Directors of Shelter, Inc. to support the safety and stability of youth in our community,” says Spencer. “As a parent and former educator, it is paramount that we come together to protect children and provide the resources necessary for families to thrive.”
Arlen S. Gould, President of Arlen S. Gould & Associates, is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in sales and marketing for small to midsize companies primarily in the food industry. Arlen has dedicated much of his career to community service, notably serving as a senior member of the Wheeling Elementary School District 21 Board of Education for 30 years and a member of the North Cook ISC Board (regional school board) for over 20 years. He is also an integral part of the leadership team of the Northwest Suburban Mental Health Task Force, advocating for improved mental health services, as well as supporting individuals with disabilities and those dealing with substance abuse issues. Arlen is a founding member and former board president of BUILD Inc., an organization focused on promoting positive outcomes for at-risk youth in Chicago. Highlighting his success in the food industry, Arlen was installed into the National Specialty Food Hall of Fame for his pioneering work in the grocery industry within the candy, olive oil and salad dressing categories. His passion for social justice and his proven track record in advocacy and leadership make him a valuable addition to the Shelter, Inc. leadership team.
Gould says, “Over the years I have been honored to be able to serve organizations whose mission it has been to help young people succeed in school and live productive lives. The opportunity to be part of Shelter Inc., a premier organization that provides emergency and longer-term housing for at-risk children and young adults is just such an organization and I am delighted to be able to contribute to the wonderful work that they do.”
Spencer and Gould join an inspiring board composed of officers Rebecca Helkowski, Board President and Finance Director at Zurich North America; Larry Collins, Board Vice President and Former Vice President at Zurich Insurance Group; JJ Comiskey, Board Treasurer and Vice President at Cornerstone Bank; and Lindsay Tintera, Board Secretary and Vice President of Marketing at Arachas Group. The officers are joined by Board Members, Guy W. Eisenhuth, Julie Gibson, Dr. Nina McIlree, MD, Heather Moss, and John M. Stomper. Learn more about our Board of Directors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rian Spencer and Arlen S. Gould to our Board of Directors,” said Shelter, Inc. Executive Director, Carina H. Santa Maria. “As we approach our 50th anniversary, we need leaders who will guide and propel Shelter into the next half-century. Rian and Arlen have the professional experience, passion, and dedication needed to further our mission and nurture our growth.”
If you would like to learn more about Shelter, Inc., or about joining its Board of Directors, please contact Christine Roerig, PCM, Director, Marketing and Communications, 847-595-0131 or croerig@shelter-inc.org.
About Shelter, Inc.
Shelter, Inc., founded in 1975, is a leader in Chicagoland for providing emotional and physical care, programs, and services that children need to build safer, healthier, and brighter futures. Shelter, Inc. is the only agency in Illinois to provide comprehensive and community-based services for children and families at risk and in need. Programs include emergency housing, transitional living, foster care, home visiting, and clinical support services. www.shelter-inc.org.
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