CARLSBAD, NM, April 14, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- CARC, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Tom Hollis as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer. Tom brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience in operations, finance, and organizational strategy, along with a deep personal commitment to serving individuals with special needs and strengthening the communities in which they live.

Tom joins CARC at an important time in the organization's history. For more than 50 years, CARC has remained dedicated to helping children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead active, meaningful, and productive lives. While leadership may change, the mission remains the same, and Tom is committed to building on the strong foundation established by CARC's founders, Bob and Barbara Forrest, and carried forward by the dedicated staff, families, and supporters who make the organization what it is today.

"I am honored to join CARC and to serve alongside a team that is deeply committed to the individuals and families we support," said Hollis. "CARC has a long-standing reputation for compassionate care, strong community partnerships, and responsible stewardship of resources. I look forward to listening, learning, and working together to ensure that this mission continues to thrive for generations to come."

Tom most recently served as Senior Vice President of Contract Negotiations for Vitex, Inc., where he advised financial institutions on strategic planning, technology modernization, and operational risk management. Prior to that role, he spent 26 years with CNB Bank in Carlsbad, where he held several leadership positions, including Executive Vice President, Controller, and Investment Officer. In those roles, he oversaw financial operations, regulatory compliance, and long-term investment strategy, earning a reputation for sound governance, fiscal accountability, and collaborative leadership.

Beyond his professional experience, Tom's connection to the mission of CARC is deeply personal. He has been married to his wife, Amy Hollis, for nearly 30 years, and together they share a deep and abiding passion for serving others. Amy is a dedicated science teacher at Early College High School, and her commitment to education and mentorship reflects the same heart for service they share as a family.

Tom is also a longtime volunteer coach and advocate for Special Olympics athletes and the proud adoptive father of a daughter with special needs. His family's journey has profoundly shaped his heart for inclusion, compassion, and creating opportunities for every individual to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

At the center of that journey is his family: Stephen (24), an archaeologist living in Durango; Coen (22), who will graduate from New Mexico State University in May 2026 and is married to his wife, Eileen; and Zoya (22), their adopted daughter from Bulgaria, along with their great-niece, Harleigh (3), whom Tom and Amy have lovingly raised since birth.

CARC's Board of Directors expressed confidence in Tom's leadership and vision for the future.

"We are excited to welcome Tom to CARC," said Ned Elkins, President of the CARC Board of Directors. "His experience in financial management, organizational leadership, and community engagement will help guide our organization forward while preserving the values and mission that have defined CARC for more than five decades."

As CEO, Tom will focus on strengthening organizational stability, supporting staff, building community partnerships, and ensuring that CARC continues to provide high-quality services in a safe and respectful environment. His leadership will emphasize collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to the individuals served by CARC.

For the CARC community, this transition represents both continuity and opportunity. The organization remains firmly grounded in its mission, its values, and its responsibility to the people and families who depend on its services every day.

About CARC, Inc.

CARC, Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Carlsbad, New Mexico, dedicated to supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more than 50 years, CARC has provided residential services, day services, vocational opportunities, and community programs that promote independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Media Contact:
Karla Niemeier
Director of Development and Communication
[email protected]
575-361-3276

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