CEL proudly welcomes Lisette Zaid as the new Director of Development. Lisette brings 14+ years of fundraising experience and a passion for helping people with disabilities that dates back to her childhood.

“I think it all started with my foster cousin, Crystal,” Lisette shared.  “Although she only verbalized two phrases, I quickly learned that there was so much she wanted to tell us! Those phrases were her way of communicating her entire world.”

Lisette’s personal connection was fueled into a passion for serving people with developmental disabilities through the example of her aunt, an Executive Director for a local disabilities-focused nonprofit. Her home was filled with art by people who were members and Lisette could see how precious those men and women were, without even meeting them.

That passion was further ignited during her most recent position as Director of Development for a residential/CILA nonprofit where she built and accelerated their development operations. A Deerfield native that moved to Chicago, Lisette recently moved back with her husband and young daughter.  She wants her daughter to grow up in a world that celebrates neurodiversity, and she sees CEL as a critical player in making that vision a reality.

“I realized there was no cause as urgent or meaningful as helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Lisette. “I saw the opportunity to join CEL’s team and make a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities and their families in my own community.”

Lisette is excited to meet with supporters to learn more about how CEL fulfills their passions and dreams for a better, more inclusive world where everyone belongs.  Lisette’s plans for the Development Department include a young leadership initiative to help grow the next generation of CEL leaders and supporters.

“Look at all CEL has done in the first 54 years and imagine what we will do over the next 50! I am honored to be part of a passionate staff, grateful for such committed board leadership, and feel that this is my dream job. CEL has the talent, passion, and leadership to change the world, and I am here for that adventure.”

Outside of work, you can find Lisette spending time with her family, bird watching, or playing with her own feather babies, Merlin and Pixie. You can reach her at LZaid@CenterForEnrichedLiving.org or 847-315-9919.