Lootens named executive director of Cardinal Services
Sixty-eight years ago, Kosciusko County parents were confronted with a shortage of resources that provided support in raising children with disabilities. It seemed that other groups and organizations that could provide those resources were either too expensive or too far away. In response to that, those parents founded Cardinal Services.
In 2021, Matthew Boren became the Executive Director of Cardinal Services. Cardinal Services and Easterseals Arc of Northeast Indiana created a formal alignment partnership, creating Easterseals Northern Indiana. Cardinal remains an independent provider.
On July 1, the Cardinal Services Board of Directors named Vickie Lootens as executive director after accepting Boren’s decision to resign from the position.
The following comes from a press release regarding the announcement.
“We’re thankful to Matt for all he has done to help Cardinal rebound from difficult times and prepare for a thriving future, and we wish him well,” said Cardinal Board Chair Anne Hill. “We are confident that Vickie’s deep love for Cardinal Services and its purpose make her an ideal choice as Cardinal’s next leader, building on the progress of the past year.”
Ongoing initiatives at Cardinal Services include creating new employment pathways for persons served; expanding and enhancing services, such as new behavior consulting services and club rooms in day services; and completing the Ability Campaign to support facility renovations.
“It has been an honor and a blessing to be part of the Cardinal story thus far,” Boren said. “I am confident the organization is moving in a healthy direction full of opportunities, and I look forward to seeing what the future brings.”
Lootens has been with Cardinal Services for more than 17 years, starting in employment services then shifting to the development team where she currently serves as chief development officer.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Cardinal Services and build on the tremendous momentum of the past year,” Lootens said. “I look forward to being a part of the effort to bring Cardinal to the next level, making a positive difference for the people we serve, our employees, and our community.”
To learn more about Cardinal Services, visit www. cardinalservices.org.