FOSTER CARE 12 September 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida edition After a four-month search led by the 4KIDS Presidential Search Taskforce, made up of board members and key community leaders, Andrew Holmes has been chosen as 4KIDS’ new president. The announcement was made on Wednesday, August 28th during a 4KIDS staff meeting by Karl Sprague, chairman of the board of 4KIDS, and was received by staff with a standing ovation and roaring applause. Andrew joined 4KIDS, a faith-based organization that helps children and families in crisis by providing Hope, Homes, and Healing, in July of 2018, launching their Family Advocacy Ministry (FAM) Program and serving through church engagement. Since that time Andrew has become a pivotal leader in church and community relationships, bringing innovation, energy and vision. Passing the baton Holmes steps into the position previously held by Kevin Enders. The former CEO and president returned to the technology sector full time in May after leading the foster care organization for seven years during a period of dramatic growth. However, Enders continues to serve on 4KIDS board of directors. Having mentored Andrew over the years, Kevin Enders shared his excitement over the announcement, saying, “It’s been clear to me all along that this is the one.” He went on to describe why Andrew “has a shepherd’s heart to lead this organization into the future.” Joined by his wife Michelle, Kevin Enders then ceremonially passed the baton to Andrew Holmes and his wife Rochelle, making the transition official. Karl Sprague also shed light on the search process, saying they reviewed 150 applicants for the position and contracted with a national agency to do a thorough background check, conduct assessments and reviewed seven references in addition to conducting multiple interviews. All this validated their convictions that Andrew Holmes was the top candidate for the role. A proven track record As director of community engagement, Andrew built systems that not only fostered strong community relationships but had the ability to track, scale and analyze the growth of 4KIDS’ reach. He has also been critical in leading the staff and maintaining 4KIDS’ spiritual identity. Andrew’s personal history as a previous Child Protective Investigator for Broward Sheriff’s Office has instilled in him a poignant passion to bring hope to hurting children and families. After working as a Child Protective Investigator, Andrew went on to serve as a founding team member to launch a Digital Substance Abuse Treatment Program. He later moved into the financial services sector where he served in leadership roles within two Miami-Dade County based financial groups, Transamerica and Western & Southern Financial Group. Andrew and his wife Rochelle are both active members of Abundant Life Church in Margate where they have served as youth pastors and worship leaders, overseeing the student ministry for more than eight years. Raised in South Florida, Andrew graduated from Lafayette College with a bachelor’s degree in government and law and a minor in religious studies. He was a member of the college football team and participated in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He and his wife Rochelle have been married since 2014 and have three children. Looking ahead, Andrew Holmes said, “My hope is that we don’t miss a beat with what has already been built here at 4KIDS. That we will continue to grow on the foundation of foster care to become a holistic resource that can step into spaces with grace and wisdom.” Additional announcements 4KIDS also announced changes in the roles of three senior leaders. Mathew John, formerly executive vice president, will now serve as Chief Operating Officer. Tom Lukasik, formerly vice president of community engagement, will now serve as Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer. And Kevin Granato, formerly assistant to the president at 4KIDS, will now serve as Chief of Staff. 4KIDS Announces New President Shelly Pond Good News Editor 4KIDS leaders and community members praying over Andrew Holmes Kevin Enders passes the baton of leadership to Andrew Holmes. Pictured from left to right: Rochelle Holmes, Andrew Holmes, Kevin Enders and Michelle Enders
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