New members of AFC’s Board of Directors completed their orientation last week, learning about the organization's operations in detail from staff across its departments. AFC is proud to welcome Taylor Atkins, Jorge Cabrera, and Sherrine Peyton to its board.
Sherrine Peyton (she/her/hers) is the founder and Principal Consultant of Peyton Consulting, where she provides expertise in strategic planning, grant writing, training, coalition development, and workforce and board training. With over 30 years of experience in Community Health and Prevention, Sherrine is deeply committed to advocating for and engaging those most affected by pressing issues. In addition to her role at AFC, she serves on the National Advisory Council for SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, is a member of SAMHSA’s National Harm Reduction Steering Committee, and co-chairs the Communities for Positive Youth Development Coalition.
Taylor Atkins, CPA (he/him/his) is currently a Financial Controller at ITW, a Fortune 200 company that produces engineered fasteners and components, equipment and consumable systems, and a wide array of specialty products. He currently serves as the Global Co-Chair of Pride at ITW, an employee resource group focused on empowering LGBTQ+ employees at ITW. Taylor is originally from Indiana and moved to Chicago in 2016. He and his partner currently live in the Lakeview neighborhood.
Jorge Cabrera (he/him/his) is a prominent communications leader, strategic thinker, and advocate. His extensive career and active participation in professional organizations highlight his dedication to fostering innovative business ecosystems. Jorge Cabrera has expertise in brand reputation, corporate communications, and content strategy, currently serving as the Head of Communications for the Americas at KONE. He has worked with organizations like BMO U.S., Collins Aerospace, and ComEd. Jorge has been a vital resource for many young professionals, offering mentorship and strategic insights, particularly supporting Hispanic and Latino entrepreneurs. Jorge has been recognized as a thought leader in communications and has served on various boards, including the Better Government Association and the University Club of Chicago, reflecting his commitment to community service. Jorge holds an MBA from the University of Iowa, a Master’s in International Policy from the Middlebury Institute, and a BA in Global Studies from UC Santa Barbara.
As AFC welcomes new members to the Board of Directors, thanks are due to departing members for their contributions, including Lori Kaufman who departed the AFC Board of Directors after 36 years of service. She will continue her work with AFC as Chair of the Honorary Board. Lori started her work with AFC in 1989 and served as Chair of the Board of Directors from 1993-1996, and later as Fund Development Chair. Her leadership and allyship with AFC was highlighted in a recent Windy City Times feature covering her award as a Notable Nonprofit Board Leader by Crain’s Chicago Business. Lori’s service to AFC cannot be overstated – her leadership, fundraising, advocacy, and community-building has been nothing short of transformative for AFC and the landscape of HIV services and advocacy in Chicago and Illinois.
AFC also wishes a fond farewell to Tanya Lopez, Keith McQueen, and Chad Thompson, who have also departed the board. AFC is deeply thankful for their work on behalf of people living with HIV, chronic conditions, and homelessness.
