DANNY BLANCO
BY: RACHEL LOPEZ, FORMER CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
In 2009, Danny Blanco began his career in behavioral health as a Case Manager at WestCare The Village South’s Adolescent Program located in Southern Florida. This role quickly unleashed his untapped potential, lifelong passion for serving others, especially adolescents, and endless commitment to making an meaningful impact in the lives of those with substance use disorders (SUD) and co-occurring mental health challenges.
Over the past 15 years, Danny has rose through the leadership levels at WestCare The Village South, growing into positions of increasing responsibility and earning a reputation for compassionate leadership and strategic vision Today, as one of the youngest members of WestCare’s Senior Leadership team, Danny serves as the Chief Operating Officer of WestCare Florida, where he continues to lead with purpose, empathy, and a relentless drive to Uplift the Human Spirit of all those he serves.
Danny’s journey to WestCare began in an unexpected, but fitting place - a law firm. While pursuing his education, Danny honed his skills as a law clerk at a prominent law firm, not realizing how this experience would positively shape his future path in a whole new career field “This experience provided me with invaluable insights into the intricacies of litigation and negotiation, which, to this day, continue to benefit not only me, but also the teams I lead and the programs I oversee,” Danny shared.
Driven by his lifelong passion for serving others and uplifting the community in Southern Florida, Danny embarked on his career in the behavioral health field with WestCare The Village South in 2009 as a Case Manager focusing on serving adolescents. His passion for helping individuals struggling with SUD and co-occurring disorders, empowered him to thrive in this role.
“Since joining WestCare, I have developed a deep appreciation for our mission and the positive impact we make in peoples’ lives,” Danny noted... And this passion and his impact did not go unnoticed.
In 2015, Danny’s work and commitment were recognized when he was appointed Coordinator of Outpatient Services at WestCare The Village South where he took on the responsibility of overseeing the day-to-day operations of all outpatient programs and ensuring that high-quality care and support were provided to clients in need. Only a year later, he was promoted to Director of Outpatient and Prevention Services. In this role, Danny led a team of over 40 staff members in delivering community-based clinical services in Miami-Dade County. To no one’s surprise, Danny's dynamic leadership and strategic vision were key in taking the programs he oversaw to new heights, growing their impact and increasing their reach.
In 2020, Danny transitioned to the role of Vice President of WestCare The Village South, leading operations in Miami-Dade and Broward County.
HOLIDAY CHEER IN FULL SWING: The Village South team gathers to celebrate the season together.
RECOGNIZING DEDICATION: Team members are honored for their passion, hard work, and heart.
PURPOSE IN THE FIELD: Supporting the community side by side, with leadership that inspires.
As Vice President, Danny took on the responsibility of overseeing all operations including prevention, outpatient, and residential services. With his innovative approaches and dedication to improving the quality of care for individuals, Danny began to solidify his reputation as a respected leader within WestCare and the behavioral health industry. In 2023, Danny was once again promoted to Senior Vice President of WestCare The Village South and continued to play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction, ensuring the delivery of comprehensive and effective behavioral health services to the South Florida community But of course, it does not end there.
In 2024, Danny stepped into his biggest role yet: Chief Operating Officer of WestCare Florida. In this role, Danny is no longer responsible for just the operations of WestCare The Village South, but the smooth and efficient operations of all WestCare services across the Florida region, which includes WestCare GulfCoast-Florida, and WestCare Guidance/Care Center in the Florida Keys. Now equipped with a career and leadership skills spanning over a decade, Danny plans to strive in this new role and to continue to be a driving force in his field.
When Danny was asked what he enjoys most about working at WestCare, he of course had no trouble answering, “Knowing that our work contributes to a greater purpose instills a sense of pride and motivation in not just myself, but in all of us at WestCare Florida.
The family feel within WestCare is another aspect I cherish. It’s refreshing to be part of a team where colleagues genuinely care for one another, both personally and professionally. This type of supportive environment fosters collaboration and open communication, making it easy to share ideas and seek help when needed. We also prioritize celebrating each other's successes, whether big or small, which creates strong bonds.
Moreover, the leadership's dedication to employee well-being is palpable. Regular check-ins and a focus on work-life balance demonstrate that the company values our overall happiness and health, not just productivity. This genuine care translates into a workplace where we feel safe to express ourselves and take risks, knowing that our contributions are valued. The work we do is not easy, it is important to feel the support from leadership across the entire organization regardless of anyone’s role.”
In summary, working at WestCare has brought Danny a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that his work aligns with a meaningful purpose. The unwavering support and abundant opportunities for growth that WestCare offers to everyone motivates him to keep giving his best every day
AWARDED FOR IMPACT: Danny Blanco accepts the Community Choice Award on behalf of WestCare The Village South.
Danny's remarkable rise into leadership is both well-deserved and unsurprising, due to his exceptional leadership style and unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and excellence. A great leader should embody qualities such as vision, integrity, empathy, and the ability to lead and support others. Danny exemplifies all of these traits Additionally, his extensive experience in providing direct care to individuals and families has deepened his understanding of the unique needs and challenges that WestCare addresses.
When asked to reflect on his leadership style, Danny shared, “At the heart of my leadership philosophy is empathy. Handson involvement has allowed me to develop a deep empathy which, in turn, significantly influences my leadership style. I recognize that effective leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about understanding the human experience behind those decisions. By staying connected to the realities faced by those we serve, I can lead with compassion and insight, ensuring that my strategies and initiatives are truly aligned with their needs. Additionally, I believe that understanding the perspectives and feelings of my team members is essential as well. By actively listening and having genuine concern for their well-being, I build strong relationships based on trust and respect. When my team knows that I care about them as individuals, they are more motivated to engage at their best.”
But empathy isn’t Danny’s only guiding principle. Another guiding principle of his is embracing extreme ownership.
“I also embrace the principle of extreme ownership because it values transparency and honesty. This is rooted in my belief that true leadership begins with taking full responsibility for both the successes and failures of my team. I understand that my actions and decisions set the tone for the entire organization, and I strive to model accountability in everything I do.
I recognize that when I own my mistakes, I create an environment where my team feels safe to do the same. It encourages a culture where open dialogue is not only accepted, but encouraged, allowing for continuous improvement,” Danny added
At the Capitol: Danny and Senior Vice President, Maureen Dunleavy; and Vice President, Steve Blank; advocating for behavioral health services.
Leadership transitions are often built on years of mentorship and collaboration. For Danny, his path to becoming the COO of WestCare Florida was shaped by years of working closely with Frank Rabbito, the former COO, who played a pivotal role in guiding Danny's growth “Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have the guidance and support of an extraordinary mentor, Frank Rabbito. Frank is a professional whom I deeply respect and admire. His mentorship has been invaluable to me, shaping my professional growth and inspiring me to reach new heights. Frank’s mentorship is not just about career advice; it is a relationship built on trust and a shared commitment to serving the most vulnerable individuals and families in our communities. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from a remarkable leader in behavioral health,” Danny shared.
“I have also had the privilege to collaborate with remarkable individuals, including true pioneers like Dick Steinberg, remarkable leaders like Ken Ortbals, and trailblazers like Dr. Engel and Dwayne Stevens, who continue to drive positive change in behavioral health.
I am also fortunate to have worked alongside exceptional leadership at The Village South, the unsung heroes, Rory Levine, Alex Martinez, Elena Hoyos, and so many more across the state. Each of these individuals, whether they realize it or not, has significantly contributed to my development as a leader. For their influence and support, I am deeply grateful.”
Building on the wisdom and guidance of his mentors and his experiences over the past 15 years, Danny has developed his own unique perspective on what defines true success. “Success is a deeply personal concept that varies for each individual. For myself, success means achieving a sense of fulfillment and balance in various aspects of life, including personal growth, relationships, and contributions to the community. It involves setting meaningful goals and working towards them with passion and resilience, while also being adaptable to change.
Success is about finding happiness and satisfaction in the journey, not just the destination. I always like to think we are all a work in progress professionally and personally, and I will continue to grow and evolve into a better person and leader,” Danny shared.
FLORIDA LEADERSHIP: Danny Blanco pictured with Florida VPs and former COO Frank Rabbito during his time as Vice President.
MARKING MILESTONES: Danny Blanco and WestCare CEO, Ken Ortbals at the Broward Community Behavioral Health Center.
Success is about the journey, not the destination. Looking back on his journey, Danny shared a few accomplishments that he is most proud of. “Over the past 15 years at WestCare, there have been numerous accomplishments I have witnessed and contributed to. Dating back to 2012 when I was in the forefront that pioneered child welfare integration, positioning WestCare The Village South as one of the first agencies in South Florida to establish specialized child welfare services. This initiative not only enhanced our service offerings, but also significantly improved outcomes for the families and children we serve.
In 2019, we undertook a monumental challenge by relocating our residential facility from Miami, where it had been a cherished institution for nearly 50 years, to a new community in Pembroke Pines, Florida. This move was not just a logistical transition; it represented a bold step. Since then, we have experienced tremendous success in our new home, fostering an environment of healing and recovery that has resonated deeply within the local community.
Most recently, in 2023, we revamped and implemented an enhanced Mobile Crisis program in Miami-Dade County. This innovative initiative has quickly gained recognition as a gold standard for mobile crisis services across the state of Florida. By providing immediate support to individuals in crisis, we have not only improved accessibility to mental health services, but also set a benchmark for best practices in the field.”
Fundraising in style: WestCare President, Richard Steinberg, joins the TVS team to fundraise at a fashion show.
Mobile Crisis Unit: The Mobile Crisis Unit gets a wrap.
Community Partners: Danny presents a thank you poster to community partner, UKG.
WHEN LEADERS GROUND THEIR ACTIONS IN REALWORLD EXPERIENCES, THEY CAN INSPIRE OTHERS TO Contribute Meaningfully & Create Positive Change.
Danny Blanco
When Danny isn't working, he values his family time above all else. Together as a family, he likes to spend their time relaxing or going on adventures. Danny shared, “I cherish spending quality time with my family, whether it’s enjoying a relaxing day at home or embarking on adventures together. Boating and fishing are among my favorite activities; there's something incredibly peaceful about being on the water, surrounded by nature and sharing laughter with loved ones. I also have a passion for watching sports, although being a New York Yankees, Miami Dolphins, and Miami Heat fan has been tough for some years now.”
“Our family moments - whether it’s a weekend outing, a cozy movie night at home, or simply sharing stories at dinner are what truly matter to me. I feel incredibly grateful for the bond we share, and I cherish every moment spent together. Family is everything and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.”
Danny and his wife, Cristina, are high school sweethearts and have been happily married for 14 years. Together, they have two wonderful children “Our journey together has been filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. We have two amazing kids, Julian and Brianna, who I would do anything for. They bring so much joy into our lives and watching them grow and explore the world is one of my greatest pleasures. I strive to be a supportive and nurturing parent, always wanting to provide them with the best opportunities and experiences,” Danny shared
Cristina and Danny in 2002, early in a journey that would grow into a lifetime of love and family.
FAMILY FIRST: Danny enjoys an outdoor adventure with his wife and children, making memories together.
CASTING JOY: A peaceful day on the water - one of Danny’s favorite ways to relax and recharge.
Danny’s lifelong passion for serving others and uplifting his community extends far beyond his role at WestCare. His dedication to making a difference is evident in his active involvement with organizations like the Florida Behavioral Health Association (FBHA) and the Miramar Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce (MPPRCC). In 2017, Danny began his journey with FBHA. “This was sparked by my passion for integrating child welfare and behavioral health.” During this time, Danny played a key role in the development of Family Intensive Treatment services, a vital initiative aimed at improving care across the state Since 2017, he regularly attended board meetings and participated in advocacy events. “These experiences not only broadened my understanding of the challenges we face, but also strengthened my resolve to effect meaningful change.” Then in 2024, Danny was selected to become a board member of FBHA, giving him the significant opportunity to expand his contributions and amplify his voice as he advocates for more behavioral health services for his community.
Danny’s involvement with the Florida Behavioral Health Association is just as impactful and meaningful as his role with the Miramar/Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce In both capacities, he brings the same dedication, leadership, and passion for creating positive change in his community. “In 2022, I was honored to be selected as a board member of the Miramar Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber. This role has allowed me to expand the footprint of WestCare The Village South and strengthen our relationships throughout South Florida. This helped foster deeper community connections that are essential for our collective growth and success,“ Danny shared.
And it doesn’t end there, Danny also plays an active role in the Opioid Community Task Force in Miami-Dade County In this role, he has led efforts in developing a comprehensive response to the opioid epidemic in the Miami-Dade County.
Community Voice: Danny Speaks at an event to bolster recovery resources in Florida.
LEADING TOGETHER: Collaborating with local officials for behavioral health.
AT THE TABLE: Focused on strategy and solutions during a behavioral health leadership meeting.
Danny’s contributions and incredibly impactful work remain to go unnoticed as well. Danny was selected to receive the South Florida Business and Wealth Magazine’s Healthcare Innovator Award, which was presented at their 2023 Up & Comer Awards These awards were created to honor young professionals who have achieved excellence in their careers, shown a commitment to their community, and demonstrated exceptional leadership.
No matter if Danny is working within his role at WestCare or serving in other community organizations in Southern Florida, he approaches every responsibility and challenge with unwavering dedication and a passion for innovation - proving that true leadership goes beyond titles and is defined by a relentless commitment to making a difference. Anyone who has had the opportunity to work alongside Danny has witnessed this commitment firsthand and continues to look to him as a source of inspiration and a standard of remarkable leadership.
“Ultimately, my journey has shaped my commitment to leading with purpose and integrity, making a lasting impact on both individuals and the broader community,” Danny answered when asked to reflect on his impact to others and his community for the last 15 years. This answer demonstrates and solidifies the idea that he is a leader who inspires change, fosters growth, and leaves a meaningful legacy.
UP & COMER 2023: Danny with Michelle Simon of Lifestyle Media Group. (Photo credit: SFBW)
TEAM CELEBRATION: Danny and the TVS team at the 2023 SFBW Up & Comer Awards.
MENTORSHIP & MISSION: Danny and Frank Rabbito share a moment reflecting on leadership and legacy.
NATIONAL IMPACT: Representing WestCare at NATCON24, a premier national conference for mental health and wellness.
INSPIRING LEADERSHIP BUILT ON EXPERIENCE & EMPATHY
Danny Blanco’s remarkable journey at WestCare and his community is a testament to the impact of his leadership that is rooted in experience, empathy, and unwavering dedication Danny’s ability to lead with vision, connect with others on a human level, and drive meaningful change has not only shaped his career but also uplifted the lives of countless individuals and families. As he continues to guide WestCare Florida with purpose, Danny represents an example of what true leadership looks like.
