Center for Enriched Living – Client Success Story

KEES, the nonprofit and public sector executive search firm, was retained to find the next Chief Executive Officer for Center for Enriched Living (CEL). Located in Riverwoods, IL, CEL is a privately funded nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Their focus is on fostering new friendships, facilitating enjoyable experiences, and imparting valuable skills that contribute to social inclusion and independent living. This partnership signifies a meaningful extension of the KEES commitment to supporting nonprofit and public sector organizations and KEES’ previous history and growing relationship with CEL.

Center for Enriched Living competitively selected and retained KEES, as its succession planning and executive search partner in 2023 following long-time leader Harriet Levy’s announcement of her retirement. Previously, KEES partnered with CEL on a successful Director of Development search placement. KEES President and CEO Heather Eddy led the CEL Board of Directors Search Committee through CEO Succession Planning and KEES Vice President Laura Weinman and Project Manager Megan Taylor led the search.

A comprehensive search was launched for Center for Enriched Living’s Chief Executive Officer. Herb Washington was ultimately selected from a passionate, diverse, and talented pool of finalists.

Herb Washington has over 26 years in the human services sector and 11 years of nonprofit executive leadership experience with an organization serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“We were seeking a passionate, strategic, and collaborative leader to help the organization move forward into the future,” said Sue Bersh, Center for Enriched Living Board of Directors President. “Herb’s dedication to and enthusiasm for the mission of Center for Enriched Living has been inspiring to all of us. We look forward to growing and flourishing with Herb at the helm. On behalf of the Board, we would like to officially welcome Herb to the CEL community and thank the entire KEES team for their dedication, commitment, and mission-driven expertise throughout this entire succession planning process and transitionary stage.”

About Center for Enriched Living

For 55 years, CEL has enriched the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities by maximizing their opportunities for personal success, friendship, fun, employment, and community involvement. At CEL, members are empowered to realize their greatest potential, thrive within the community, and achieve their hopes and dreams. Members can choose to participate in innovative and unique outcome-focused programs that cover a wide variety of interests and budgets, and represent social, recreational, educational, and employment opportunities. For more information, visit www.CenterForEnrichedLiving.org.