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Our Team

Our team is composed of a dedicated group of professionals who embody the core values of NJ 211. They work closed with our partners and Board of Trustees to achieve the organization's mission and goals.

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Executive Team

Melissa Acree
Chief Executive Officer
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Learn more about Melissa

Melissa Acree serves as the Executive Director of NJ 211, a position she has held since May of 2017, providing executive leadership and vision to the organization. In 2022, she led the development of a three-year strategic plan, working in conjunction with the board of trustees and executives, to reset priorities and define future goals for the organization. 

Prior to becoming Executive Director, Melissa joined the organization in 2013 when she was hired to spearhead a new, professional training and development program for the organization. She was promoted in 2016 to Director of Business Development where she launched the ReachNJ hotline to address the needs of those suffering from the opioid overdose epidemic.  Melissa is known for her ability to respond at the highest level when needed. This was evident in the 22 months that NJ 211 elevated its operation to meet the needs of the state and our residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her collaborative nature, ability to lead by example, and strong interpersonal skills have resulted in new and meaningful partnerships. Melissa is also actively involved in the national initiatives of the 211 National Network.  

Kevin Donahue
Chief Operating Officer
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Learn more about Kevin

Kevin Donahue came to NJ 211 with years of management skill and technical expertise in his professional portfolio. A graduate of Seton Hall School of Law, he is a dedicated advocate of social justice with years of experience in affordable housing, subprime foreclosure and issues affecting those who are currently experiencing homelessness. Previously, he served as the Executive Director of St. Peter’s Haven, a non-profit organization located in Clifton, NJ, which is one of over 3,000 agencies listed in the NJ 211 resource database. 

Kevin recognizes the value of the organization’s reputation with regard to the data that is captured as people seek the help they need. “In order to make systemic change that will ultimately improve the lives of those who are struggling, decision makers must have a clear and comprehensive picture of what people need and where the gaps in service are. NJ 211 has that data and I am looking forward to finding more ways to harness it for the good of all,” he explains. With a solid professional history of implementing technologies that improve efficiencies with mission driven focus, Kevin is sure to prove an asset as NJ 211 continues to expand to meet the challenges of its time.

Donald Bennett
Controller
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Learn more about Don

Don Bennett serves as the Controller of NJ 211 and is responsible for all aspects of the financial operations of the organization.  Don earned his Bachelor’s degree and MBA in Accounting from William Paterson University.  With vast financial experience in public accounting and higher education, Don brings over 20 years of accounting, budgetary, and operational knowledge to NJ 211.  During his career, he has served in many roles and collaborated with cross-functional teams to solve complex organizational issues.        

Don joined the organization in February 2023 as a Senior Accountant and was instrumental in onboarding the organization’s new PEO leading to upgrades and improvements in payroll, timekeeping, and accounting processes.  He was promoted to Controller in January 2024 and is committed to continuous system and process improvement to help build organizational capacity at NJ 211. 

Management Team

Rory Britt
IT Manager
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Dana Catapano
Communication Manager
Dana Catapano
Rae Duncan
Program Manager, 211
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Dennis Lopez
Database Manager
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David Mercado
Program Manager, Utilities
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Jaclyn Nunziato
Program Manager, Coordinated Entry
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Wilda Traverso
HR Generalist
HR Generalist
Marco Zelaya
Program Manager, Homeless
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