John Chilkotowsky has joined the Peacock Family Center as its new executive director.

Chilkotowsky, who has worked as a nonprofit leader with youth-focused organizations for nearly 20 years, was hired after a nationwide search.

He replaces Justine Smith, who served as executive director for approximately two years and is departing to pursue business ventures.

“John is bringing an exceptional background in nonprofit management and education and a commitment to the needs of families with young children,” said Katy Mathias, president of the Peacock board. “We are growing and evolving as an organization and are excited about the leadership John will bring to this next stage.”

A nonprofit headquartered on Bainbridge Island, Peacock Family Center operates a childcare center that serves more than 70 children from infancy through early elementary school, and is a resource hub for connecting families to support services for the Bainbridge and North Kitsap communities.

Chilkotowsky, who also has experience as a business consultant for Fortune 500 companies, most recently served as associate director and Marketing Director at Wilderness Awareness School in Duvall, where he grew their award-winning youth programs.

His first day in his new role was Jan. 15.

“Peacock Family Center helps kids and families grow up healthy and happy and I’m thrilled to be a part of such a nurturing, supportive and innovative community of people,” Chilkotowsky said.

The mission of Peacock Family Center is to promote the healthy social and emotional development of children by providing nurturing and enriching care and family support. Peacock also hosts the region’s first and only online resource directory for services ranging from prenatal care through lactation support, developmental screening and therapy services and parenting education and support groups.

Peacock will host the fifth annual Peacock Family Center Bainbridge Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament and Auction on Saturday, Feb. 1 at The Island School to benefit its programs. For more information, visit PeacockFamilyCenter.org.