Our Staff
Although we currently operate as a small team, our amibitions reach far beyond our current size. Our strategic vision for growth is firmly rooted in our commitment to effectively serve our community. Every step we take is guided by our core values, ensuring that our expansion aligns seamlessly with our mission to make a meaningful impact.
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Debra MacKenzie
Director of Operations Debra is an accomplished fundraising professional with over 18 years of experience in the non-profit sector of Long Island. She comes to Autism Communities with a passion for helping individuals with disabilities live with more independence. Along with her fundraising background, Debra has a vast array of experience in marketing and communications, software implementation, grant research and writing, event management and strategic development of goals to meet and exceed the organization’s vision. She has built and maintains strong relationships with key stakeholders on Long Island and throughout the east coast. |
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Our Board of Directors
Autism Communities Board of Directors are seasoned professionals and visionary leaders, serving as the guiding force behind the organizations strategic direction and operational excellence. With diverse expertise spanning industries and a shared commitment to innovation and growth, our board members bring invaluable insights and guidance, ensuring we navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities with precision and foresight.
Margaret Curran-Rusch
Board Treasurer Commerical Lender Margaret brings over two decades of leadership in commercial banking, specializing in lending and sales. With a proven track record in fostering collaborative partnerships and driving new business development... |
Mark Gregorio
President - TEI Group Mark is the President of TEI Group located in Long Island City. For over 30 years, the TEI Group has continued to evolve from its roots as an independently owned elevator maintenance company to become a leading provider... |
Allison Kleinman, LCSW
Founder - Future Centered Care Allison is the founder and CEO of Future Centered Care. She has been working since 2009 as an advocate for people with I/DD and mental health challenges and is dedicated to improving employment, housing and future planning options for this community... |
Rob Manger
Sales and Marketing Executive Rob is a sales and marketing executive with over 25 years experience in growing businesses. He brings a wealth of marketing expertise to the board, and as a father of an autistic 15 year old, Rob brings a passion for helping those with developmental disabilities and their families... |
Michael Sanchez
Public Servant and Special Needs Advocate Michael Sanchez is an active law enforcement professional with over thirty-five years of experience with several agencies. In his decades of public service, Mike's area of specialty is investigating allegations of child sexual assault and physical... |
Rob Sanchez
Board Secretary CEO MouthMedia Network Robert is the CEO of MouthMedia Network, a podcast network covering business and technology and a focus in internal communication tools... |
Steven Visco
President and Owner of C.H. Edwards Inc. and Visco Family Insurance Steven is the current President and Owner of C.H. Edwards, Inc. & Visco Family Insurance... |
David Viteri
President, A&D Entrances David was an elevator mechanic for NY Elevator for 14 years and during this time there, he noticed a disconnect in the entrance installation field. He took a leap of faith in his ideas and resigned... |
Our Advisory Board
We are visionary leaders, devoted to championing the mission of empowering neurodiverse individuals on Long Island. Our unwavering commitment entails leveraging our expertise and passion to drive forward and shape the future of the organization. Together, we strive to make a meaningful impact and foster positive change within our community.
Paul Pedretti
Chairman Emeritus
Chairman Emeritus
Patricia Calandra
Region 5 Master Housing Navigator Start Up & Support Broker |
Grace Pedretti
Special Needs Advocate |