SKSF Founder and Executive Director Announces Retirement
October 8, 2021, Colorado Springs, CO: Dear Friends and Colleagues – As I share my plans to retire from my 21 year position as Executive Director of Special Kids Special Families, a good friend and former colleague, who retired three years ago gave me some wise advice. He told me that I will know when the time is right; and once I set a date, it will create clarity for entering a new chapter in my life.
Special Kids Special Families has grown from an idea and community need for providing respite care to youth with disabilities, to addressing lifespan issues related to caregiver resources. Now, a mid-sized non-profit, the organization is positioned to move into the next level for growth and development in response to the needs of the community.
I’m leaving the organization in good hands with a strong leadership team who is ready to continue the great work we do in the community. Lukas Zakrzewski, currently the Director of Operations, will move into the Executive Director position on October 9th. Although I will be retiring from my position, I will continue to assist in other areas in program development – which is exciting!
In all my years of leading Special Kids Special Families, it was not a conscious plan to create the various human service programs under its umbrella, but rather it was a response to meeting individual and family needs in the Front Range. It’s satisfying to know that we have been and continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
I want to thank all of our wonderful board members throughout the years that have given their time and talents to serve our organization. In addition, I’d like to thank our hard working, dedicated staff and the many individuals and businesses that have supported our organization through donations, volunteerism, collaborations, and gracious generosity. The friendships I’ve created through our daily involvement are timeless.
Sincerely, Linda Ellegard
Family, friends & co-workers surprised Linda Ellegard with a send off dinner. We all wish her the very best in her retirement! She’ll be hanging around for a bit to finish up some loose ends as she passes the Executive Director baton to Lukas Zakrzewski. We will miss you Linda!
