Meet the FFC Team

Executive Director

rachel@familyfirstcenter.org

Rachel Chenier is a passionate and visionary leader dedicated to empowering and transforming the lives of families in Lake County, IL as the Executive Director of Family First Center of lake County. With a deep commitment to community well-being and social impact, Rachel has played a pivotal r

Executive Director

rachel@familyfirstcenter.org

Rachel Chenier is a passionate and visionary leader dedicated to empowering and transforming the lives of families in Lake County, IL as the Executive Director of Family First Center of lake County. With a deep commitment to community well-being and social impact, Rachel has played a pivotal role in steering the nonprofit organization towards its mission of assisting families in effecting positive change in their lives. 

Rachel's leadership is informed by a wealth of experience and expertise in nonprofit management, strategic planning and community development. Her profound understanding of the challenges facing local families, coupled with her innovative and compassionate approach, has been instrumental in driving the Family First Center's initiatives and programs.

Founder and Director of Mental Health Services

evelyn@familyfirstcenter.org

FFC's Founder Dr. Evelyn Chenier, L.P.C, Ph.D., NBCC is a dedicated and compassionate licensed professional counselor with a wealth of experience in mental health services and counseling. Dr. Chenier earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Community Psychology from Natio

Founder and Director of Mental Health Services

evelyn@familyfirstcenter.org

FFC's Founder Dr. Evelyn Chenier, L.P.C, Ph.D., NBCC is a dedicated and compassionate licensed professional counselor with a wealth of experience in mental health services and counseling. Dr. Chenier earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Community Psychology from National Louis University, where she developed a deep understanding of the complex social and psychological dynamics that impact individuals and communities. She also holds a Master of Science in Counseling and a Bachelor of Science in Educational Psychology, reflecting her commitment to a holistic and multifaceted approach to mental health and well-being. 

Director of Operations & Community Health Worker

manny@familyfirstcenter.org 

Manny's journey with the FFC began when he became an Assistant Instructor for our organization's Boot Camp classes, a program that helped members of the community stay active and healthy, and began volunteering as a Community Health Worker back in 2013. This role 

Director of Operations & Community Health Worker

manny@familyfirstcenter.org 

Manny's journey with the FFC began when he became an Assistant Instructor for our organization's Boot Camp classes, a program that helped members of the community stay active and healthy, and began volunteering as a Community Health Worker back in 2013. This role helped him find his passion and vocation, finding a way to contribute to the Lake County community, and he took what he learned when he explored a different job opportunity in the community in 2015. In September 2023, he joined the FFC again as the Director of Operations, providing health education to the community, training and supporting new CHWs, and developing key relationships within the healthcare system.