Justin Zakia

For much of Justin’s career, he worked in large healthcare systems—fast-paced 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 still data-driven, just 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 the organization 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.”