Making an Impact:

Brian Laurenzo

“Before I understood what ChildServe was, I expected to walk into a very sad place. However, like everyone who visits ChildServe, I quickly realized how much the people who work here love coming in every day. I realized that every child who receives services here has a better quality of life than they would have otherwise.”

The days when Brian Laurenzo knew little about ChildServe are long gone. As outgoing Chair of the Board of Trustees, Brian spent the past four years carefully setting specific goals for growth and working hard to increase ChildServe’s ability to care for more children every year.

“I fell in love with ChildServe and its mission to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life,” said Brian. “ChildServe is one of a kind. As Chair, I wanted to increase the number of kids we serve, our ability to share our mission with the community, and make sure it’s clear to everyone how unique our services are. To help us reach these goals, we have added amazing individuals who can take the Board of Trustees to the next level by expanding our ability to fundraise and engage with our community.”

One way Brian met these goals is through the expansion of ChildServe’s signature fundraising gala, Bubble Ball. Cheri Burns, Director of Development and Community Relations at ChildServe, saw the steps Brian took which enabled the Bubble Ball to dramatically increase its contribution to the ChildServe’s Foundation.

“Brian analyzed the sponsorships for Bubble Ball and realized there was an opportunity to involve more local businesses,” said Cheri. “He helped identify goals that would stretch us, and was tenacious about meeting them. Thanks to his leadership, Bubble Ball has raised over $1 million since its inception in 2011.”

Along with Brian’s fundraising expertise, he also brought an emphasis on teamwork to his role as Chair.

“Brian is a collaborative leader,” said Lloyd VanderKwaak, CEO of ChildServe. “He forged great working relationships with Chair of the Board of Directors, ensuring that the strategic goals of the Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors were aligned and moving in the same direction – to advance the mission of ChildServe.”

While he’s transitioning from board chair back to board member, Brian looks forward to supporting the work of future leaders.

“This board, both current and incoming, is a true game changer for ChildServe and the kids who benefit – I’m so proud to be included in what comes next.”