Brian Patel brings more than 20 years of social services experience to the agency
JOLIET – The Board of Directors of United Cerebral Palsy-Center for Disability Services has announced Brian Patel will join the agency as the Executive Director on September 11. Patel has more than 20 years of experience in social services, most recently serving as the Student Services Coordinator at the Tinley Park Academy for the Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford affiliate.”
According to Sue Treharne, board president, Patel was chosen from a vast array of applicants due to his experience in management and program and policy development.
“Brian offers a unique blend of people and policy skills that will benefit our agency,” Treharne said. “The board thinks Brian has knowledge of good leadership strategies and an understanding of state requirements to ensure all of our services comply with state standards.”
In his various roles at Easter Seals in Tinley Park, Patel led and supervised a multidisciplinary team of employment services and clinical personnel. He also was responsible for developing new programs and initiatives for clients and staff, as well as overseeing building improvements.
“I am looking forward to joining the dedicated staff of UCP-CDS,” Patel said. “As the world of social services continues to evolve, I am confident we will work together to offer the best services possible to our students and adult clients. I am also committed to ensuring our staff has access to continuing education opportunities and the tools important to successfully perform their duties. In my mind, educating and caring for human beings is one of the most essential jobs in our communities.”
United Cerebral Palsy-Center for Disability Services has been serving children and adults with significant developmental delays for nearly 70 years. The agency operates a year-round school for children ages three to 21, who cannot be served by their home school district and adult day services for residents of Will County. The agency also operates an in-home respite and home-based service program in five counties of Southern Illinois. For more information, visit the website: www.ucp-cds.org.
