UAS Welcomes First Development Director

Urban Autism Solutions takes a big step forward in our initiative toward continued growth as an organization with the appointment of James Michael as the first-ever Director of Development. In this important position, Jim will be the first full-time staff member solely devoted to promoting the advancement and growth of the organization and to diversifying its revenue streams.

And for Jim Micheal and his family, the mission of UAS that will ground his work is deeply personal. Jim’s 15-year-old son Alex was diagnosed with autism at age 2, and his 13-year-old daughter Reland babysits a nonverbal child with autism. Autism has been a constant presence in their family’s life and they share Jim’s passion for the mission of UAS and are excited about his new role within the organization.

Jim arrives at UAS with a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector. His thirty-year career has brought him in contact with an incredibly diverse group of individuals, from military families to ill and injured people experiencing homelessness, to visually impaired people, to people with developmental disabilities. He most recently served as the Chief Strategy Officer for Wellness Homes of Chicago, a multi-site integrative primary care and community wellness organization, where he led developmental planning, marketing, and community partnerships.

Jim moved to Chicago in January of 2006 from his hometown of Seattle. He has a certificate in Nonprofit Executive Management from Kellogg School of Management, a master’s degree in education from Seattle University, and a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Washington. Jim trains and competes as a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and is a staunch supporter of Beat The Streets Chicago's efforts to provide critical life skills to young people through the sport of Wrestling.

Jim’s arrival in this position is an important moment for UAS, and the organization is excited and grateful to have his drive, energy and passion for our mission. Welcome Jim!