Interim Board Chair
Michael Willis serves as Interim Board Chair of New Horizons for Children, bringing strategic leadership, public policy experience, and a deeply personal commitment to vulnerable children and families. His involvement with NHFC reflects both his Christian faith and his belief that caring for vulnerable children is an essential expression of biblical obedience.
Professionally, Michael is CEO of The Color Nine Group, a Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm that advises governments, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations on federal funding, public policy, strategic planning, and complex organizational challenges. His career has included work with senior leaders throughout the federal government, Congress, nonprofit organizations, and international governments, including extensive work involving Ukraine. Prior to entering the private sector, Michael spent six years on Capitol Hill advising the former Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on federal appropriations, national security, and other major policy matters.
Michael’s connection to NHFC is also deeply personal. He and his wife, Stephanie, are parents of five children, including two whom they first fostered and later adopted. Stephanie served with NHFC in Ukraine from 2022 to 2024. During that time, Michael also worked alongside NHFC leadership, assisting with government relationships, organizational matters, and strategic connections supporting the ministry’s work in Ukraine. He has also completed training in trauma-informed care.
Michael brings additional leadership and ministry experience through his previous service as an elder in a local church, several years on John Maxwell’s President’s Advisory Council, and his current role on the Leadership Team of the TIMES12 Church Planting Network. These experiences have strengthened his commitment to developing healthy leaders, building effective organizations, and helping people use their God-given gifts in service to others.
Michael and Stephanie live in Washington, D.C., and attend Waterfront Church, where Michael coaches members of the pastoral staff in leadership. Together, they remain deeply committed to their family, their faith, and helping vulnerable children experience safety, family, and hope.