For the last 15 years, Robert Day has served as the Chief Executive Officer of FIVE18 Family Services. During his tenure, this organization has learned many lessons and seen many changes. It’s not lost on any of us at FIVE18 that you’ve continued to support us through all of it. In the end, what has occurred under Robert’s leadership and with your support is more than we had ever imagined possible; nothing short of a fundamental transformation of the organization.

As FIVE18 embarks on its next season of working toward reconciliation and mended futures for every family, Robert feels that this is the perfect time for him to step down from his role as CEO to embark on a new season. “Over the last 15 years,” he says, “God has allowed me to accomplish exactly what I came here to do: lead this organization to becoming fundamentally focused on preventing children from needing to be separated from their families at all. Now that FIVE18 is where it is, I truly believe someone else is better equipped to carry the organization forward.”

Though Robert is stepping down on June 30th, we’re pleased to let you know that he’s not stepping away. In fact, he’s launching a new endeavor that will expand the vision of FIVE18 beyond this region.

This new endeavor is called Recovering Orphan, a ministry created for the purpose of helping people recover from the trauma of the orphan spirit. It’s about recovering words to restore hearts, and will include a new book titled Recovering Orphan, an interactive website, and social media platforms that will facilitate a community for understanding and healing.

As for Robert’s continued involvement in FIVE18 specifically, he will consult with the Executive Leadership Team on a regular basis and teach classes on the organization’s history, our core values, and the ministry of reconciliation. He will also continue to speak at churches about his own story and the great work of FIVE18 with at-risk children and families. 

In terms of FIVE18’s leadership, it’s my great honor to share with you that the Board of Directors has appointed Jeffrey Nitz, who has served as FIVE18’s COO for almost 8 years, as interim CEO on July 1st when Robert steps back. Each person involved in this decision has complete confidence in Jeff’s ability to lead FIVE18 in carrying out our mission, and we are grateful for everything he’s already contributed to this organization.

As Board Chairperson, the Board and I can’t thank you enough for your commitment to the ministry of reconciliation and your support of FIVE18 Family Services. From where we have been to where we are now, we have high hopes for what we will continue to achieve together as a community for every child.

Brandon Osterbind, Board Chairperson  for  FIVE18 Family Services.