““While there are many motivating factors that underpin a leaders thoughts and actions, nothing is intrinsically more pure, and more inspiring than the call to serve. The dedication and commitment required to be a true servant leader requires a level of personal sacrifice that can only be instilled by a passionate belief in a greater good – something beyond one’s self.””
Corporate Directors & Officers
MaryAnne Haines
Founder/President Emeritus
Since 1985
Nick Gentile
Board President
Since 1990
Joe Mascia
Executive Director
Since 1987
Joe Steele
Corporate Secretary
Since 1990
Paul Rocheleau
Corporate Treasurer
Since 2009
Paul D'Addabbo
Corporate Director
Since 1997
Doreen Elizabeth Mascia
Our Inspiration, Since 1967
“This organization is especially thankful to God — for Doreen’s bright light has been amazingly contagious. It has opened doors of hope for many people; and has truly brought passionate purpose and distinct color to each of our lives!”
Senior Leadership Team
Tom Salvador
Director of Facility Operations
Since 1992
Marianne Sargent, RN
Director of Nursing & Clinical Services
Since 2016
David Foster
Director of Program Operations & Services
Since 2023
Name
Since
Administration
Sam Rosenbaum
Business & HR Administrator
Since 2020
Aia Coleman
Administrative Associate - Business & HR
Since 2023
Brian Starzyk
Administrative Associate - Accounting & Finance
Since 2024
Program Services Team
Angel Ortiz
Program Specialist - Finance & Facility Operations
Since 2009
Natasha White
Program Specialist - Staff Development & Quality Services
Since 2024
Dori Hallaway
Program Coordinator
Since 2001
Other
Special Acknowledgement & Tribute
The GIL Board would like to thank MaryAnne Haines for her resolve and tenacious spirit; and also her special daughter Doreen Mascia for allowing us access to her life as a conduit of love and hope for so many others. GIL Foundation would not have been possible without the God given gifts of Doreen and MaryAnne. MaryAnne spearheaded the fabric and framework of the GIL Foundation. Inspired by her daughter, on the cutting edge of community integration for individuals with disabilities, she founded the organization “Grounded In Love” as a local nonprofit in 1985. When she discovered the absence of local day programs available to serve her daughter with autism, she sought to find a solution. Initially, GIL was established with the primary focus of providing structured summer and weekend activity programs for local youth and teens with autism and developmental disabilities. Since that time, GIL has grown exponentially to become a full service, top tier provider of comprehensive programs and supports for individuals with diverse disabilities. MaryAnne laid that groundwork and continues to maintain an emeritus role with the organization. The GIL Board therefore wishes to acknowledge MaryAnne’s keen foresight, determination, and courage. Her love for her daughter provided the vision for more than three decades of dedicated nonprofit community service. This organization is especially thankful to God - for Doreen's bright light has been amazingly contagious. It has opened doors of hope for many people; and has truly brought passionate purpose and distinct color to each of our lives.