Options Community Services Society has selected Neil Arao as its new chief executive officer.
In the fall of 2024, the non-profit announced its long-serving CEO, Christine Mohr, would be retiring at the end of June 2025. The board began searching for a new chief executive officer shortly after.
Options' board of directors announced Thursday (June 5) that Arao will take on his new role of CEO on July 7. He is currently the executive director of homelessness, housing, mental health and substance use at Options.
Arao said in a social media post that he was "humbled and honoured to step into the role." He thanked the board for their trust and confidence in him and said he was "blessed to have been mentored and to work with" retiring CEO Christine Mohr.
A press release from Options stated that, "During his tenure, he has led transformative initiatives including the launch of a home-based detox and withdrawal management program, the development of inclusive therapeutic communities, and the integration of pharmacy and paramedic services into supported housing—all with a commitment to dignity, accessibility, and evidence-based innovation."
He also ensured that the detox program stayed open when the original funding ran out. The program will now operate with reduced hours and fewer staff. He used funds from a grant that Options had previously received to sustain the program.
"The grant was over a three-year period, so I used the tail end of this last fiscal year, and then this new fiscal year to piece together enough," he said in a previous interview with the Now-Leader.
Arao is no stranger to the non-profit and public health-care world, with more than19 years of experience, including senior positions with Fraser Health Authority, Provincial Health Services Authority, and Vancouver Coastal Health.
"His career is rooted in advancing equity, reconciliation, and social justice. The board is confident that Neil’s values, professional expertise, and deep familiarity with the organization make him exceptionally well positioned to lead Options into its next chapter," reads the release.
Options Community Services program helps people in Surrey, Langley, White Rock and Delta.
