Don is the “king” of car shows. His company, Don Nicholson Enterprises, is responsible for planning the biggest car cruise in Michigan, Cruisin' Hines and the All American Wayne Road Cruise. He is also the promoter of several car shows locally and throughout southeast Michigan. Don is President of the Wayne Chamber of Commerce, Vice Chair of Membership and Marketing on the Westland Chamber of Commerce, sits on three boards for Motorcities National Heritage Area, President of Friends of Nankin Mills and Vice Chair on Mayor Wild's Disabilities Concern Committee as well as past President of the Wayne Rotary. Don and his wife Gayle also publish The MarketPlace in Westland and Garden City. When he isn’t promoting his shows, Don enjoys traveling across the country on his scooter and spending time with his wife Gayle and son Edward.

Jan Myers worked for Community Living Services for 20 years before retiring in 2002. She first worked in the Community Placement Unit/Foster Care as a Foster Parent Recruiter/Educator and then became a Foster Care Licensing Worker. In 1999 Jan became the CLS Community Relations Director where she was responsible for event planning, fundraising and media relations. Jan enjoys being on the Friends of CLS Board because it still allows her to be connected with the people supported by CLS.

“From the very beginning of (Wayne) Community Living Services, I was a part of the fundraising efforts of Friends. I began working as the State was closing institutions and now look where the people supported by CLS are living! I was proud to be a part of the paradigm shift to more independent living for people with disabilities. Now, by being on the Friends Board, I have to opportunity to assist these incredible people in their efforts to follow their dreams and become actively involved in their communities. I am truly blessed to continue to be a part of this organization.”

Emma Dale-Hench has been a Friends of CLS Board Member for over a decade. She also serves on the Enhance, Incorporated Board of Directors. She enjoys volunteering and advocating by helping others who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. Emma enjoys living on her own with supports in place that she has chosen to help her life a successful life in the community.

Julie Reilly learned about Friends of CLS when both CLS and Friends became customers in 2017. What could be a better way to “introduce” ourselves than to invite their team to Evening With Friends? Julie and her team at Flagstar Bank in Canton instantly fell in love with the organization and realized that they could help us make a difference. Julie’s financial experience, wonderful attitude, and huge heart are all amazing assets to Friends of CLS. With decades of experience to share, we’re honored to have her on our team.

“After being a part of the event in 2017, I fell in love with the organization and the people it supports.”

With over 30 years of accounting and tax experience, Lauretta brings Friends of CLS a significant understanding of financial best practice as well as a tremendous heart and desire to serve.

Currently working with Cole, Newton, & Duran as a Senior Accountant; Lauretta found out about Friends of CLS while working for the firm that does their independent audit.

Patty brings the Friends of CLS Board the type of passion that only a mother can. She’s seen, first hand, the effect that CLS can have on the lives of individuals we serve and understands the power of “a little bit extra help” when needed.

“Never, never, never, give up!”
- Winston Churchill

George connected immediately with Friends of CLS. When our Board was seeking candidates for membership, CND Law (a division of Cole, Newton, and Duran) sent their best. George specializes in corporate, business, and commercial law as well as probate and estate planning. He’s a passionate supporter of his community and seeks to find long-term solutions to the challenges individuals face.