Communities for Alcohol- and Drug-Free Youth executive director to retire, replacement hired

PLYMOUTH — Communities for Alcohol- and Drug-Free Youth, Inc. Executive Director Deb Naro will retire later this month.

Since stepping into the executive director role in 2004, Naro has been the heart and driving force of CADY’s mission to empower healthy choices, drug-free lifestyles and promising futures through collaboration, education and engagement across the region. Under her leadership, CADY has strengthened school, community, and statewide partnerships, and has launched numerous high-impact youth programs that continue to change lives. Beyond the Central NH region, CADY has expanded its reach to include a statewide and national presence with the same core purpose of building resilient youth and drug-free communities.

As a former three-term NH Statehouse member, Naro served on the House Education Committee and sponsored bills into law and championed several child protection bills including bullying prevention, substance abuse prevention, advancing youth leadership through civics education, as well as the establishment of the NH Legislative Youth Advisory Council, which was designed to give high school and college students direct experience with the legislative process and a voice on issues that affect them.

“For me, helping kids learn, grow, and thrive is our most important role. I have seen how connections to caring, trusted adults have built resilience and transformed the lives of children, and in many cases, saved lives — this is the greatest reward. No one person or organization can do this vital work alone — it takes a village,” Naro said. “I am deeply grateful for the honor of serving in this position and for the guidance of our board, including long-term Board Chair Michael Conklin.”

“We are profoundly grateful for Deb’s extraordinary service,” said Conklin. “Her vision and leadership have shaped CADY into the strong nonprofit organization it is today.”

Current board member and educator Dr. Clarissa Palmer will take over as the next executive director. Palmer will bring over three decades of dedicated experience in developmental psychology, education, and community advocacy.

A professor at Plymouth State University, Palmer has a distinguished career centered on human development, restorative justice, and the powerful role of human-animal interactions in supporting at-risk youth and families. Her extensive research and community service — ranging from coordinating animal-assisted activities for CADY's juvenile restorative justice program, to serving as a local elected official in Thornton — demonstrate her deep commitment to fostering resilient youth and healthy communities.

For more information, visit cadyinc.org.