FLITE CENTER NAMES KRISTINA DASILVA AS NEW CEO

Kristina DaSilva has been named as the new chief executive officer of FLITE (Florida Independence, Training & Education) Center, a nonprofit that guides those aging out of foster care and other vulnerable youth for successful transition to independence through education, employment, housing, health and wellness, and system of care coordination. The announcement was made following a unanimous vote by the FLITE Center board of directors. 

“We are proud to welcome Kristina in this new role as CEO,” said Wanda Perez, board chair, FLITE Center. “It was a clear decision based on her passion for the mission of FLITE Center, her ability to collaborate with public and private partners and her strong leadership skills.”

Kristina DaSilva was formerly the COO of FLITE Center with oversight over operations, development, marketing and human resources.

“It is a privilege to accept this important role and I’m ready to uphold the standards of this vital organization,” said DaSilva. “Working hand in hand with the amazing FLITE Center team and the dedicated board, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of foster care youth and others on the path to independence.”

DaSilva has a 17-year history of nonprofit excellence. Prior to FLITE Center, she was an integral part of the leadership team at Hands on South Florida. Throughout her career, she has been involved with all aspects of organizational leadership, including program and team development, community outreach, fundraising, human resources and strategic brand management.

Kristina is a resolute professional and lifelong learner. She has participated in the prestigious American Express Leadership Academy and has served on many boards, including the Points of Light Affiliate Assembly, Florida Association for Volunteer Resource Management, American Society for Public Administration, and the Women’s Council of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.

Kristina has received numerous awards including the Aileen M. Marty Endurance Award from the American Society for Public Administration in 2023, the Apogee Award for Executive Excellence fromSouth Florida Business & Wealth in 2022, and the Bowtie Kids Community Champion Award in 2022.

In addition to her work in the nonprofit sector, Kristina volunteers regularly to support arts and culture activities, youth development programs, and women’s initiatives. She is an avid runner and IRONMAN triathlete who can be found outdoors whenever possible. She currently resides in Wilton Manors, Florida, with her husband, Joel, and their perpetually spoiled Shih-Tzu, Oliver.

For more information about FLITE Center, visit flitecenter.org.

FLITE (Florida Independence, Training & Education) Center was created in 2009 through a partnership of the Community Foundation of Broward, the United Way of Broward and the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale, with the intent of offering comprehensive access to services for youth aging out of foster care. A respected not-for-profit organization, FLITE Center has become the hub of all support services for transitioning youth to become successful adults within a safe, nurturing environment that promotes personal growth while developing practical life skills. The mission has expanded to also be a lifeline for victims of human trafficking. Based on community needs, FLITE Center serves as a beacon of hope in Broward and Palm Beach counties plus Central Florida. For more information on programs and services and how to get involved, visit flitecenter.org.