Our Team
Lisa Wilson, MSW
Executive Director
Lisa, a Philadelphia native, migrated to New Jersey in 2006 when she married her husband Mark. Lisa was introduced to the Long Branch Concordance by Monmouth University. She was an MSW intern in 2007. She graduated from the program with a Masters in Social Work concentrated in International Community Development. Lisa has her BA in Political Science. She was hired as the agency’s Program Director in 2008.
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Since becoming Executive Director in 2009, Lisa has grown the agency in delivery of literacy and education programs focused on family economic self-sufficiency and sustainability. She has solidified relationships with New Jersey universities by expanding experiential learning contracts for field interns in the areas of administration, governance, program, outreach, and direct practice. She has maintained state funding for the 8th consecutive year despite the economic downturn, and has been able to maintain private and corporate sponsorships as well.
Lisa said, “When I learned how invaluable the FSC is to the community, I knew this was a place I wanted to be. We work with all sorts of people, provide an astounding array of services, all with a small staff and a tiny budget. Fortunately, CCFSC has a fabulous staff and an astounding Board.”
Janice Leonard
Bi-Lingual Family Support Partner
Janice was born and raised in Lima, Peru. She has degrees in Communication Sciences and Business Administration with a specialty in Human Resources. Janice has 20 years’ experience working in the private sector. Janice emigrated to the United States, specifically New Jersey, in 2016. This was her “American dream.” Janice started working at the Family Success Center as the agency’s Bi-lingual Family Support Partner in January 2023. She tells us that “being part of Coastal Communities and Monmouth County’s minority community has taught her the importance of working on behalf of the diverse populations that visit her.” She is passionate about providing vulnerable families with support and resources to secure their well-being. Janice educates parents helping them grow relationships and maintain homesteads. She lives in Eatontown with her husband Shawn.
Danielle Gallo
Intern
Danielle is a BSW student with a minor in Psychology at New Jersey City University. She is a member of the Social Work and Sociology Club. She is also very proud of her years spent at Brookdale Community College. Danielle aspires to work for New Jersey’s Division of Child Protection and Permanency and is determined to improve her Spanish to better assist as many parents and children throughout the state.
She has previously interned at Family Promise of Monmouth County supporting families at risk of homelessness. In the past she has also developed and conducted activities for residents at Sunrise Assisted Living, tutored children at Aslan Ministries, and volunteered for Long Branch Elks. “I hope to gain the knowledge and skills necessary here at Coastal Communities to propel my education toward the career of my dreams working with and supporting New Jersey’s families.” In her spare time Danielle spoils her rescue dog, Wyatt. She is the youngest of a big family and loves spending time with her older siblings, nieces, and nephews. Danielle lives in Oceanport with her grandma.
Mariana Dos Santos
Intern
Mariana is a BSW student at Rutgers University. She chose Coastal Communities Family Success Center as her internship because she was impressed with the work the Center does on behalf of the greater Long Branch community and its immigrant population. Mariana is interested in working with parents and children. She graduates from Rutgers University in 2024 and intends to further her education by obtaining her Master’s in Social Work in advance standing. Mariana says she “is passionate about her role at the Center and supporting members of her community.” She enjoys working with the staff and meeting new parents every week. Mariana lives in Long Branch with her parents and sisters.
Kelly Nicole Sewall, BSW
Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator
Kelly was born and raised as a military brat. She traveled and experienced different cultures before settling down in New Jersey. She graduated from Rutgers University, School of Social Work in May 2023. Kelly is current enrolled as a full time MSW student continuing her education with Rutgers Advanced Standing Program focused on interpersonal violence and trauma. She has background working with children and families in need of assistance and resources.
Kelly joined the Coastal Communities team as their Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator in 2023. She aims to promote the Family Success Center, its resources and education offerings with the hopes of improving the lives of the families served at Coastal Communities. Kelly coordinates with her fellow service providers through shared outreach events engaging families and providing educational tools and resources that support and grow our community. She resides in Ocean County with her dog Scout.
