Board of Directors

David Nyren, Board President

Owner, AMD Capital

David and Carolyn have worked with the C 24/7 family since 2018. “We were each drawn to C 24/7 in multiple ways. It was clear to us what God was calling us to do. Working with the C24/7 family in the North of Howard neighborhood in Rogers Park has been a humbling experience. But it has shown us the hope that exists for these families! With James’ and Natalie’s leadership, we are confident many lives will continue to be positively impacted. We feel fortunate to be able to be a small part of this great group of people.”

 

Brian Clutter

Lydia Home Association & Safe Families for Children, Director of Finance

A graduate of the University of Illinois, Brian is a CPA and currently the Director of Finance at affiliate non-profits Safe Families for Children and Lydia Home Association. Safe Families for Children is a national organization focused on creating extended family-like supports for families through communities of devoted volunteers to keep children safe and families intact. Lydia Home is an Illinois non-profit that primarily focuses on children and families within the child welfare space. Prior to this role, Brian spent 6 years as a public accountant and 7 years as a forensic accountant and litigation consultant.

Brian is passionate about identifying and shining light on the talents and gifts of the underserved and under-resourced in our local communities.

Diana Spencer

Advanced Philanthropy Solutions, LLC

Spencer is an accomplished advisor and former CEO with 20 years of experience in the philanthropic sector, dedicated to driving meaningful change through strategic leadership and innovative program development. Under her guidance, Diana expanded the organization’s outreach, supporting a range of initiatives focused on education, access to healthcare, homelessness and workforce development, and ethical leadership development fellowships.

With a strong belief in the power of collaboration, Diana forges partnerships with various organizations and stakeholders to enhance impact. She has been instrumental in launching programs that address critical community needs while building internal capacity and promoting sustainable practices.

Diana is passionate about empowering individuals and communities. She continues to inspire others to engage in philanthropic efforts and service, believing that together, we can create a brighter future for all.

“I am so proud of the work of James and Natalie and the C24/7 team and honored to walk alongside them as they serve God and the North Rogers Park community.”

Linda Walker, JD, MSW, LCSW

Linda is a retired clinical social worker. She first became involved with C24/7 in 2018 when she was assigned to research the organization for a grant proposal submitted to the Woman’s Club of Evanston. While meeting with James and Natalie during program at their space in the Jonquil Hotel, Linda recalled volunteering with her church to redecorate that very space for another program decades earlier. It seemed like God had clearly led her to the organization. Linda brings to the Board her experience as a trauma-trained therapist, as well as a legal background, and her love for the mission of C24/7. She is a long-time Evanston resident and an active member of St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Wilmette, which has become a church partner to C24/7.

Brett Gardiner

Mappa Wealth Management, Private Wealth Manager

Brett Gardiner is an independent Private Wealth Manager with Mappa Wealth Management in Glenview, Illinois. He helps individuals, families and small business owners define and realize their financial dreams. He has over twenty-five years of professional experience, fourteen of which have been in the financial services industry, and is a 1991 graduate of Indiana University.

Brett and his wife, Laura, grew up on the North Shore of Chicago and have four children. He plays an active role in their education, athletic and theatrical activities. He is also an Eagle Scout and a five-time Ironman Triathlete. He brings that same commitment and discipline to his work in our community.

Ben Matuska

Ravago Group, Commercial Director

Seasoned, high energy, tenacious Commercial Executive with 25+ years’ achievement developing and directing teams for strategic national and global sales and marketing initiatives in dynamic markets across the polymer and chemical industry. Seeking to create growth and value through demonstrated track record of success in building high performing teams, recruiting A-level players and mentoring and coaching them to exceed goals. Historically managed team of 13 direct reports with revenue of $850MM and director oversight for indirect organization of roughly 130 people including Sales, Customer Service and GM/Ops Mgr. of Regional Commercial Center.

Carolyn Nyren

David and Carolyn have worked with the C 24/7 family since 2018. “We were each drawn to C 24/7 in multiple ways. It was clear to us what God was calling us to do. Working with the C24/7 family in the North of Howard neighborhood in Rogers Park has been a humbling experience. But it has shown us the hope that exists for these families! With James’ and Natalie’s leadership, we are confident many lives will continue to be positively impacted. We feel fortunate to be able to be a small part of this great group of people.”

 

Adam Pennington, Vice-Chairman

Xponential Fitness, EVP of Business Development

Adam has been involved with C24/7 since 2012, when he met James and Natalie at a service event in the Rogers Park neighborhood. After meeting, Adam and James became fast friends and Adam began attending the weekly bible studies for the young men of the neighborhood. Though originally living in a country town, Adam was able to connect deeply with many of the young men and developed many lasting friendships and mentor relationships over the years.

Adam is married to Jackie Pennington and the two, along with their two young children, have loved getting to know many families of the neighborhood. They believe in all that C24/7 is doing to build up and invest in those of Roger’s Park. This neighborhood has become family.

Jackie Pennington

Jackie has been involved with C24/7 since 2012, when she met James and Natalie at a service event in the Rogers Park neighborhood. 

Jackie is married to Adam Pennington and the two, along with their two young children, have loved getting to know many families of the neighborhood. They believe in all that C24/7 is doing to build up and invest in those of Roger’s Park. This neighborhood has become family.

Help Someone Thrive Today

You can get started right now by helping a child or young adult forge a path to hope and renewal.

Give Today Partner with Us