LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Los Angeles Youth Network (LAYN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Teo Martinez as its 2016 board chair. Martinez, CEO of Growing Generations, will lead the 11-member board, including new member Tom Swan, CEO of The Swan Group, and John Ryan, President of Elite Commercial Incentive Services, who returns after a brief hiatus. Martinez will replace long-time board chair David Cottrell, Member and Entrepreneur, of Cottrell Consultants, LLC.
"Becoming Board Chair of the The Los Angeles Youth Network is just one more way to serve this great organization," said Martinez. "So many staff and volunteers give of their time and talents to support disadvantaged youth. Working with all of them has always been an honor. I am excited to help lead the organization into 31 years of service."
Martinez will take the helm during a critical time for the organization. Beginning January 2017, LAYN, like many other foster and youth shelter homes, will be restructuring to meet the requirements of the California Continuum of Care Reform (CCCR). In addition to the Reform, LAYN is also currently undergoing accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).
"It is our goal to exceed the standards of quality for the youth we serve," said Mark Supper, CEO of LAYN. "Receiving the CARF accreditation will be a significant achievement, one that will continue to recognize the outstanding work done by our board members, staff and volunteers. We are excited that Teo will be leading during such a progressive time."
Teo will lead board members: David Cottrell, Russell Allyn (senior counsel at Buchalter Nemer), Scott Kay (acting principal at Vine Street Partners), Diana Buckhantz (foundation executor of the Vladimir & Araxia Buckhantz Foundation), Hope Biller (two-time EMMY nominated producer), John Ryan, Tom Swan, Ram Cogan (partner at Wasserman, Cooper & Carter, PC), Dr. Leslie Kaplan (physician, The Bella Vita) and Don Polite (director of corporate brand & marketing for Johnson Controls).
In addition to the Reform and CARF accreditation, LAYN is gearing up for its 31st Anniversary Key of Hope Gala on October 8. First Lady of Los Angeles, Amy Wakeland, will be the organization's special guest and speaker, and Councilman Mitch O'Farrell, will serve as honorary chair of the Gala. The Gala recognizes community and advocacy leaders for their dedication and unwavering service to foster, homeless and LGBT youth.
About Los Angeles Youth Network
Since 1985, Los Angeles Youth Network (LAYN) has served runaway, foster and other youth experiencing homelessness ages 12-21 that includes emergency, group and long-term housing. LAYN provides comprehensive programs and services teaching independent living skills and resources necessary for youth to lead productive lives, while offering a wide array of educational and enrichment programs. In addition, LAYN operates a high school in partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District. For more information, visit www.layn.org.
Media Contact:
Raynetta Smith
Develop & Communications Manager
(323) 467-8466
rsmith@layn.org
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SOURCE Los Angeles Youth Network
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