ChildFund Appoints David Chayer as New U.S. Programs Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Information:
Cheri Dahl
CDahl@ChildFund.org

ChildFund Appoints David Chayer as New U.S. Programs Director

Experienced nonprofit executive to expand school-based social-emotional learning programming and strengthen AmeriCorps-powered impact

Richmond, Virginia | March 4, 2026 — ChildFund is pleased to announce the appointment of David Chayer as its new director for U.S. Programs.  

Chayer, who brings over two decades of experience leading child‑focused, community‑based and crisis response organizations, joins ChildFund at a time of rapid momentum in its U.S. programming, particularly the organization’s school‑based social‑emotional learning (SEL) initiative in south Texas, where nearly one child in every three lives in poverty. ChildFund works with AmeriCorps members to facilitate weekly meetings in 15 schools to support school counselors and strengthen connections between families and schools. The program has received statewide recognition for its effectiveness and for providing meaningful leadership opportunities to emerging community leaders through AmeriCorps service. 

Throughout his career, Chayer has led organizations focused on child protection, mental health, family violence prevention and youth development. His leadership roles include serving as executive director of Family Service of El Paso, Missouri KidsFirst and the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence, among others. In his new role, Chayer will oversee the continued strengthening and expansion of ChildFund’s SEL programming.   

“David understands how important social‑emotional support is for children right now, and he sees the potential of our AmeriCorps-powered approach through our sustainable model partnering with schools so more kids can grow up healthy, educated, safe and skilled,” said Erin Kennedy, vice president for external affairs and partnerships.   

Chayer said he is energized by the opportunity to expand a model that is already showing strong results. “Schools are doing heroic work, but they’re being asked to carry more than ever,” he said. “I’m excited to help expand a program that gives children emotional tools to thrive and gives schools the extra hands they need.” 

Chayer holds a master’s in public administration from Southern Illinois University and has been recognized for leadership across several national organizations, including the American Red Cross and the ALS Association. 

About ChildFund  
ChildFund works throughout Asia, Africa and the Americas, including the United States, to connect children with what they need to grow up healthy, educated, skilled and safe — at home, in school, in community and online.