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.”

Neva is the President and Executive Director for Enhance, Inc. Enhance, is a staffing agency that assists people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with their daily needs. Neva is also President of Rgrps, Inc. which is also a staffing agency. She is president of Enhance, Options LLC, a property management company and is also President of Mindful Management, a management services and consultation company. Neva believes in the principles of Self-determination and Gentle Teaching and has helped several hundred people live a life of freedom and independence. Many of the people served had formerly lived in large institutions. She also volunteers for numerous organizations and serves on the board of directors of Gentle Teaching International and the Provider Association of Wayne County.

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.

Employed as a Consumer Advocate in the Recipient Rights Department at CLS. He earned his Associates Degree from Schoolcraft College in 2008. Steve has won numerous medals and ribbons from the Paralympic and Michigan Victory Games and represented the U.S. in Boccia Ball in the Belgium, England, Australia and Argentina Victory Games. He also participates in a local wheelchair hockey league.

Brian has worked for DTE Energy for more than 35 years and is currently the Director of the Monroe Power Plant. When not golfing or playing guitar, he likes to spend time with his daughter, Beth and his wife of 38 years, Kathy.

Brian says his favorite quote is from John Stuart Mill. ‘The only freedom which deserves the name, is that of pursuing our own good, in our own way, so long as we do not attempt to deprive others of theirs, or impede their efforts to obtain it. “I believe Friends of CLS is an advocate of that type of freedom for people with disabilities.”

Driven, determined, and to the point; Alexandria is a perfect example of what Michigan universities can bring to the world. Studying at Michigan State, then Eastern Michigan before receiving her Juris Doctor at University of Detroit Mercy. While spending most of her time fighting for her clients in the courtroom, she’s decided to use her talents and her time to help advocate for individuals with disabilities.

“I wanted to join the Friends of CLS Board because my family has been in the group home business for 30 years. After the passing of my parents in 2015, I found myself taking over and wanted to surround myself with like-minded individuals who care about this 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.”