EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

With over 25 years experience growing several businesses in various industries Joe now runs The Connective which is a group of companies that open doors for each other and share in commissions. The Connective currently runs chapters in 5 states with over 100 members. Joe has run a marketing company, magazine, beer company, wedding site, and music festivals to name a few. He also put out his first album of 12 songs he wrote and produced with various artists.

Joe has always been committed to charity starting with Big Brother program in college to 10 years in The Rotary Club, United Way and now sits on the board of Children’s Specialized Hospital. Joe became involved with the American Legion in Hoboken after Superstorm Sandy wiped out the legion. Joe was President of the Hoboken Rotary Club at the time as was the catalyst for getting the new legion built in town. From there he has made it his mission to build new Veteran housing across the country to provide homes for at risk veterans which is why he started the Foundation for Sustainable Veteran Housing.

Allan Betau, 70, is a seasoned self-employed contractor with 44 years of experience under his belt. His journey began with the Air Force, where he bravely served during the Vietnam War, earning his stripes and leaving a mark of valor. For four decades, he has been a dedicated member of the American Legion, contributing his time and efforts to its causes. Rising through the ranks, Allan has served as the Past Commander of Post #3, demonstrating his leadership and commitment. Currently, he holds the position of 2nd Vice-commander and Chaplain Liaison, continuing to play a pivotal role in fostering connections and supporting the American Legion's initiatives.

Jim Killeen, originally from Scotch Plains, NJ, holds a BA in Economics from the University of Dayton (1986) and a Project Management Certificate from the American Business Association in New York City.

With a career spanning over three decades, Jim is a seasoned Project Management Professional renowned for his ability to translate business needs into actionable requirements, execute quality assurance measures, and provide invaluable support throughout implementation and post-implementation phases.

Jim's professional journey began at American Express Bank Ltd. (1986-1996), where he served as Operations Support Manager for the Asia Pacific & Middle East Marketing division before transitioning into the role of Project Manager for Global Operations & Technology.

From 1996 to 2005, Jim contributed his expertise to UBS Paine Webber, holding the position of Divisional Vice President within the Managed Accounts Services Projects Group.

Since 2005, Jim has been a pivotal member of Citigroup, currently holding the esteemed position of Senior Vice President of Finance Product Control Technology.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jim is deeply committed to honoring and supporting veterans. He believes in recognizing their sacrifices and contributions not only during times of conflict but also in their roles as pioneers in exploration, flight, technology, and disaster relief. Jim advocates for ongoing support and gratitude for veterans, emphasizing the debt of gratitude owed to those who have served.

Jim sees his work as an opportunity to thanks veterans, embodying the ethos of "All Gave Some, Some Gave All."

Lauren is an engaging and results-driven fundraising executive known for her ability to captivate and inspire others. She has a reputation for leveraging a vast network to drive revenue while building trusting relationships with corporate and community leaders to further philanthropic missions. Lauren has a knack for envisioning innovative and creative approaches which enables her to lead teams through all facets of fundraising with resounding success.

Prior to launching LG. Philanthropy, Lauren held esteemed positions, including Senior Vice President and Interim Chief Development Officer at Girl Scouts of the USA, Executive Director at the American Diabetes Association, VP of Development for the American Heart Association, and Senior Director of Development at the National MS Society. Her expertise extends beyond fundraising, as she excels in delivering compelling presentations, orchestrating remarkable events, and providing exceptional leadership.

Lauren earned her B.S. from Miami of Ohio, and she currently resides in the vibrant city of New York with her beloved dog, Ru, who adds an extra dose of charm to her life.

Burim Regjaj, the founder of Outta Hand Pizza, Inc. in Westfield, NJ, established the business in 2018 following successful ventures including I3D.NYC, EBA Property Management, and B&J Reald. Overseeing 220 New York City real estate properties valued at half a billion dollars, Burim serves both domestic and foreign investors. His experience in Westfield underscored the importance of local small businesses in fostering community well-being.

Burim believes in the reciprocal relationship between businesses and communities, emphasizing the significance of giving back. Grateful for the opportunities he's received, he is dedicated to supporting the community that has embraced him. Beyond financial contributions, Burim actively engages in initiatives addressing societal challenges and promoting individual empowerment.

His philanthropic focus centers on aiding homeless veterans, many of whom are the courageous soldiers who fought for his country and protected his family from persecution based on ethnicity. For Burim, assisting homeless veterans isn't just a noble cause; it's the most important one.

Residing in New York City with his wife and two children, Burim is committed to making a positive impact both in business and in his community.

Mark is a lifelong resident of Westfield. Along with his wife Mary Caye McCourt, they have raised two boys Connor and Christopher, who graduated from the Westfield public school system. His New Jersey roots run deep, having started his professional entrepreneurial career first building diners and running diners, both quintessential NJ institutions. Mark started his current profession of financial planning in 1996 achieving his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in 2000. His great success is largely driven by Mark’s passion to help clients secure an abundant life. The fee only firm he built, and runs is Westfield Financial Planning located across from Mindowaskin Park on East Broad Street. Westfield Financial Planning is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) with the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) and has a fiduciary responsibility for all aspects of their client relations.

Mark is deeply involved in building the community through his many charitable endeavors. In addition to his involvement helping to house homeless veterans, he is currently on the executive committee and chair of the investment committee and facilitates committee at the Westfield Area Y. He is a past president of the Y, as well as a past president of The Westfield Foundation and the Westfield Rotary.