Darlene Allen

Darlene is a nationally recognized nonprofit sector leader, innovator and change maker who has dedicated her professional life to improving the lives of children impacted by abuse, neglect and trauma. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Providence College, Master of Science degree from the University of Massachusetts, Certificate in Non- Profit Leadership from Harvard University, Kennedy School and is an alumni of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 small businesses entrepreneurial program. For more than 35 years, Darlene has worked in both public and private organizations developing services to address the behavioral health and child welfare needs of children, youth and families as well as advocating on a local and national level for improved child and youth serving programs, policies and practices. 

Darlene is the CEO and Executive Director of Adoption Rhode Island, Acting Director of the Center for Advanced Practice at ARI and a national child welfare consultant. Darlene is a strong advocate for trauma –informed, adoption and permanency –competent services and is a consistent voice for laws and policies that best serve the unique needs and strengthen the contributions of the adoption, kin and foster care communities. During her career, she has developed, managed and implemented many government and philanthropic-funded programs and initiatives. 

Darlene is the Vice Chair of the National Adoption Association, Policy Chair and Board member of Voice For Adoption, and a member of the National Family Builders Network Association. She serves as Chair of the Rhode Island Coalition for Children and Families. Darlene has served as a Commissioner on the Trauma Informed Schools Act Commission, a member of Governor McKee’s first 100 Days Transition team, a member of several child fatality review teams and legislative commissions. She has also served as a mentor for numerous emerging leaders in Rhode Island. Darlene has been recognized for her leadership, commitment to children waiting for adoption, and advocacy for child abuse victims.