June 5, 2021
Elaine Perilla was named the new executive director for Lee’s Summit CARES, beginning her job at the nonprofit organization on June 1. A Lee’s Summit resident, Perilla has worked for Kansas City metropolitan area nonprofits since 1998.
“The Board and I are excited to welcome Elaine to lead Lee’s Summit CARES as executive director,” said Dr. Fel Bagunu, Lee’s Summit CARES Board president. “She brings a wealth of experience to this role. We are eager to introduce her to our volunteers, partners and donors. Her expertise in relationship building will help us strengthen our partnerships as a community coalition serving children, youth and families in the greater Lee’s Summit area.”
In addition, Bagunu recognized Monica Meeks, who has served as the nonprofit’s interim executive director for the last few months.
“We would also like to thank Monica Meeks for her leadership during the transition,” he said. ”She is a valued member of the Lee’s Summit CARES team. We know she is eager to resume her shortened work schedule to take care of family obligations.”
During Perilla’s tenure as executive director of the Johnson County Volunteer Center, she collaborated with more than 280 partner agencies while also working to diversify agency funding. In addition to her experience in the nonprofit sector, Perilla has worked as an instructor in higher education and as a nurse in the healthcare field.
Perilla earned a master’s degree in education from Webster University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Lee’s Summit CARES is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a healthy and safe community for children, youth and families. The community coalition focuses on mobilizing community partners to develop a culture of physical and mental wellness for local youth and families that inspires positive, healthy choices. To learn more about Lee’s Summit CARES, visit http://www.lscares.org/. You may also follow Lee’s Summit CARES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.
