Our Leadership

Based in southeast Michigan, Annette Downey has undertaken national projects spanning from Israel and Ontario to Wisconsin, Delaware, and multiple states across the country.

Her expertise centers on Person-Centered Planning, Self-Determination, Real Life Quality Outcomes, and Community Focused Planning for people with developmental disabilities.

She provides training nationally through the Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst (APSE) and serves on the faculty of the University of Delaware's National Leadership Consortium on Developmental Disabilities.

She also trains four major New York State Provider Alliances, sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with organizations committed to improving services for individuals with disabilities.

Downey holds a Licensed Social Worker credential from Michigan (since 1995) and graduated from Central Michigan University.

A graduate of the University of Michigan, Lisa Ballien is a licensed social worker and Director of Community Supports at CLS's Oakland County location.

With nearly 25 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, Lisa has dedicated her career to ensuring meaningful community integration and person-centered support.

She is deeply committed to the philosophy that "all people should have the same opportunities in the world" and focuses her work on developing actionable strategies to advance this belief.

Lisa's approach combines practical experience with strategic thinking, helping individuals with disabilities achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives in their communities.

Mark Churay is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Community Living Services, Inc. (CLS) and is an experienced leader with an extensive background in non-profit administrative services. His expertise supports the organization’s mission by seeking innovative ways to minimize costs and maximize results.

As a member of the executive leadership team with over ten years of experience at CLS, Mark collaborates with all departments and the Board of Directors. His unique set of skills in strategic planning, financial management, and systems development, paired with an understanding of person-centered planning and a commitment to self-directed services, aligns the organization to utilize values-based spending to achieve desired outcomes.

Mark received a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics from the University of Michigan, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Accounting from Walsh College.