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Justin Zakia

Justin Zakia

President & CEO

Justin joined CRi because he believes in what it stands for—an idea that began with a handful of people determined to prove that individuals with mental health needs and developmental disabilities could not only live in a community of their choosing, but thrive there. “That belief still guides everything we do.” Justin explains. “The work isn’t abstract to me; it’s proof that compassion, when paired with persistence, can change lives and communities.” Read more-


For much of Justin’s career, he worked in large healthcare systems—fast-paced, data-driven
environments where results mattered but often felt distant from the people they were meant to serve.
He learned a great deal about strategy, growth, and leadership through these experiences. But over
time, he found himself wanting something more personal—something that tied outcomes directly to
impact. Joining CRi was a conscious choice to bring that experience to a place where success is
measured one person at a time.


At CRi, Justin has the privilege of leading a mission that feels both timeless and urgent. He works closely
with CRi’s Board of Directors and CRi’s incredible staff to strengthen how it governs, plans, and partners
for the future. Justin enjoys meeting people to grow CRi’s community, and explains: “Together, we’re
modernizing the systems that support our mission while making sure we never lose sight of the
humanity at its core. A big part of that work is inviting new voices to the table—people whose energy
and ideas will carry CRi forward for the next fifty years.” What drives Justin most is seeing the ripple
effect of what CRi does. Every time someone CRi supports gains more independence, every time a team
member finds pride in their work, every time a family feels hope again—CRi makes the world a little
better. Justin takes pride in playing a role in that kind of progress and is energized that he gets to see it
in action each and every day.


Justin is dedicated to helping CRi grow without losing its heart—to honor the legacy that brought CRi to
where it is today while building an even stronger organization for years to come. As Justin has said:
“This work reminds me constantly that real change doesn’t come from scale or speed—it comes from
care, consistency, and a deep belief in people. The world really can be changed: one person, one team,
one family, one community at a time.”