Northeast Arc has elected two new members to its Board of Directors: Mike Christian and Benjamin Dollar.
Mike Christian is the Board President of Someone Else’s Child, Inc., a position he has held for nearly 25 years. The foundation supports youth causes throughout the U.S., Africa, and Central America with areas of emphasis including education, the arts, youth living with disabilities, economic justice, and collective action efforts. He is also the Managing Partner for Community Impact Ventures (CIV), a venture capital impact fund that provides financial support to social entrepreneurs and for-profit companies that have missions similar to that of Someone Else’s Child. CIV invests in early-stage firms creating meaningful social impact.
“We’ve known Northeast Arc for several years and financially supported the launch of its innovative Pathways to Opportunities program,” said Christian. “It is one of the most impactful initiatives we have supported. Everyone at Northeast Arc is dedicated to and focused on the mission. They are devoted to the people they serve, and I look forward to contributing as a board member for this outstanding organization.”
“Mike’s strategic insight and prior involvement with nonprofit boards will bring new relationships and opportunities for collaboration as Northeast Arc to continues to pursue cross-sector partnerships that advance our mission,” said Heidi Ellard, Board Chair. “Additionally, his risk management background will support the board in identifying challenges and opportunities brought on by the uncertain environment for disability services, as well as ways to gain efficiencies and implement industry best practices across all of our service areas.”
Christian, who lives in Marblehead, majored in philosophy at the University of California in Santa Barbara.
Benjamin Dollar is a Principal in the Industrial Products and Construction practice at Deloitte* Consulting LLP, where he focuses on digital transformation in supply chain and manufacturing. He also serves as Chief Strategy Officer for the Energy, Resources, and Industrials practice. Before joining Deloitte more than 20 years ago, Dollar started his career working in high tech startups in Austin, Texas.
“Northeast Arc is very important to me,” said Dollar. “I have one child on the autism spectrum and one that is profoundly disabled. We have used Northeast Arc services, and I firmly believe in its mission. I’m honored to represent the company on the board of directors.”
“Ben’s insight and understanding about the complexities inherent in navigating care for children with disabilities bring an important and valuable perspective to the Northeast Arc,” said Ellard. “The combination of his personal and professional experience make him an ideal addition to our board. I look forward to working with him.”
Dollar, who lives in Newton with his wife and two children, holds degrees from Vassar College and the University of Texas at Austin.