Image: Angelika Dawson, Communitas Supportive Care Society / The board of Communitas Supportive Care Society has appointed Matt Dirks (right) as their new chief executive officer beginning June 1, 2025. He will follow outgoing CEO Karyn Santiago (left).

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Executive leadership

Fraser Valley non-profit appoints new CEO

May 8, 2025 | 8:22 AM

ABBOTSFORD — A Fraser Valley non-profit committed to providing care for those living with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges and acquired brain injury has appointed its next CEO.

Communitas Supportive Care Society, a faith-based registered charity with services throughout British Columbia but headquartered in Abbotsford, says its board of directors has announced Matt Dirks will be its next chief executive officer effective June 1, 2025.

This appointment comes after a comprehensive search conducted by Nelson/Kraft and Associates Inc.

“We are very pleased with the outcome of this search,” says Kathy Doerksen, board chair. “We look forward to the future under Matt’s leadership. He brings experience, empathy, leadership, and a deep commitment to the people we serve.”

Dirks comes to this role with more than 15 years of experience in the social service sector. Most recently, he has served as the chief innovation officer at Communitas. He holds a master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration from the London School of Economics. His commitment to societal change and advocacy for people of all abilities is based on his personal experience growing up with a sibling with Angelman syndrome.

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Communitas says Dirks’ education, work experience, and personal journey are the drivers behind his dedication to creating inclusive communities where everyone can contribute. While the work involved can often times be complex, Dirks says that, at its core, it is about supporting people of all abilities toward abundant life.

“Looking back on nearly ten years with Communitas, I’m struck by how, now more than ever, I feel drawn to and inspired by its mission,” Dirks said. “It’s something I see in the dedication of our staff, in the small but meaningful interactions I have with persons served, and in the deep sense of purpose I feel coming to work every day.”

Dirks follows the leadership of Karyn Santiago, who has served with the organization since 2012.

“The Board extends our deep gratitude to our outgoing CEO, Karyn Santiago, who has given exemplary leadership to Communitas during her 13 years with the organization,” Doerksen says. “Through her vision, commitment, and innovation she has helped Communitas create an inclusive community and abundant life for all.”