Wichita, Kan. – President Deb Voth has announced she will retire this summer completing a career advocating and supporting children with special needs and their families. Voth has been at Rainbows for nearly 29 years serving as President for almost 12 years and as Associate Director for the previous 16 years.
Throughout her career, Voth has served on many local and state organizations including appointment by several Governors to the Kansas Early Childhood Interagency Coordinating Council. She was a board member of InterHab, Kansas Non-profit Chamber and has been a member of Rotary Club of Wichita and Downtown Kiwanis Club.
“Leading Rainbows has been a privilege. I’m humbled by the trust of families to provide support and life-changing services for their children through Rainbows’ programs along with connections to community resources,” said Voth. “I’ve been fortunate to lead alongside a talented team of staff and Board of Directors who are committed to our mission and the children and families we serve.”
A visionary dedicated to children, she has also championed mental health services for young children and youth, building successful programs through Rainbows. On the forefront of understanding the need for mental health services for children, over the past 20 years, Voth has led expansion of Rainbows’ Mental Health department and services for children ages birth to five provided in homes, community child care centers, and through teletherapy. She also initiated a Mental Health Specialist position to oversee behavior support for school-age youth with behavior challenges served through Rainbows’ Family Support Services.
Voth’s dedication to advancing legislative initiatives and funding to ensure care is available for Kansas children with special needs. Voth led the agency through challenging times including the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking funding sources to keep essential services flowing to children and families.
“Deb is an exceptional leader and passionate advocate for children and families,” said Jim Walters, Rainbows United Board Chair. “She has positioned Rainbows well for serving children with special needs and their families now and into the future with a strong, committed staff. We will celebrate Deb’s contribution to our organization and children and families over the years before her retirement this summer.”
According to Walters, the Board has a succession policy in place and will begin a search for a new president.
Voth plans to travel catching up with family and friends.
Rainbows United, Inc. served more than 4,200 children birth – 21 with special needs or at risk throughout Butler, Sedgwick and Sumner Counties last year. Rainbows is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children with special needs and their families by bringing together community resources and providing customized services. The Agency celebrates 50 years in 2022.
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