The new leadership position will strengthen organizational capacity as TaskForce prepares for its next chapter of growth and community impact.
Chicago, IL – June 25, 2026 – TaskForce Prevention & Community Services has appointed Jagadīśa-devaśrī Dācus, PhD, LMSW, as the organization’s first Deputy Director. The newly created leadership position highlights TaskForce’s continued growth and commitment to building the infrastructure needed to advance healthcare, food access, and community resources on Chicago’s West Side.
Dr. Dācus brings more than two decades of leadership experience spanning nonprofit management, community health, capacity building, organizational development, and health equity. A public health and social work scholar, his career has focused on strengthening organizations, developing high-performing teams, advancing community-centered programs, and improving health outcomes for historically underserved populations.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jagadisa Dacus to the TaskForce leadership team,” said Dr. Christopher Balthazar, Executive Director of TaskForce. “Their passion for community, commitment to equity, and proven leadership make them an outstanding addition to our organization. As TaskForce continues to expand its programs and prepare for the next chapter of growth, including the development of our new community center, Jagadisa will play a critical role in strengthening our impact and advancing our mission to serve LGBTQ+ communities. We are excited for the vision, expertise, and energy they bring to this role and look forward to the meaningful contributions they will make.”
Dr. Dācus earned his PhD in Social Welfare from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York and his Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University. He later completed a National Institute of Mental Health-funded postdoctoral fellowship at the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies.
Before joining TaskForce, Dr. Dācus served as Associate Director of the Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, where he provided strategic leadership across research, operations, community engagement, and organizational initiatives. His scholarship and professional work have centered on HIV prevention, health equity, implementation science, organizational effectiveness, and the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ communities of color.
As Deputy Director, Dr. Dācus will help strengthen TaskForce’s organizational infrastructure, support staff and program development, advance strategic priorities, and ensure operational excellence remains aligned with the organization’s mission and values.
“I am honored to join TaskForce at such an important moment in its growth and evolution,” said Dr. Dācus. “TaskForce’s commitment to service, dignity, and community impact deeply resonates with me. What excites me most is the opportunity to strengthen the organization’s capacity, build effective systems, empower talented staff, and expand our ability to create lasting impact in the communities we serve.”
“I look forward to advancing health equity, strengthening programs, and helping position TaskForce for an even brighter future—one in which even more people, especially LGBTQ+ youth of color and other historically underserved communities, can access the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve,” he continued.
The appointment comes as TaskForce prepares to enter a significant new chapter in its more than 35-year history. The organization is investing in the leadership, systems, and long-term capacity needed to expand access to affirming health services, youth programming, community resources, and opportunities for connection on Chicago’s West Side.
TaskForce will share more of its vision for this next chapter at its annual fundraiser, Vogue for Good, taking place on October 15, 2026, at 838 W Kinzie St.
