AbilityFirst Executive and Leadership Team

Lori Gangemi, the Chief Executive Officer at AbilityFirst, directs the overarching strategic vision for all disability support services. Gangemi architects long-term growth initiatives that expand the reach of life skills and employment programs throughout the region. By aligning organizational goals with the needs of the community, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every program participant receives high-quality care and resources. Lori Gangemi maintains constant communication with the Board to secure the financial and operational health of the organization. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships with stakeholders to enhance the impact of the mission. Through rigorous oversight of internal processes, the Chief Executive Officer drives efficiency across all departments. Ultimately, Gangemi secures the future of the organization by championing inclusive practices and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities in every facet of the operational model.

Carl Gayden, the Chief Financial Officer at AbilityFirst, manages the fiscal integrity and resource allocation for all charitable programs. Gayden oversees the budgeting process, ensuring that funds support essential life skills and supported employment services effectively. By monitoring financial performance, the Chief Financial Officer provides the data necessary for informed decision-making at the executive level. Carl Gayden implements robust accounting controls to maintain transparency and compliance with regulatory standards. This leadership role requires balancing the immediate needs of program participants with the long-term sustainability of the organization. Through careful analysis of revenue streams and expenditure patterns, the Chief Financial Officer optimizes the use of donor contributions. Gayden collaborates with other leaders to align financial planning with the strategic mission of the organization, ensuring that every dollar directly benefits the individuals served by the various programs.

Keri Castañeda, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Program Officer at AbilityFirst, executes the daily delivery of all disability support services. Castañeda designs and refines the curriculum for life skills, healthy living, and social recreation programs to ensure maximum participant engagement. By supervising the operational staff, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Program Officer maintains high standards of care across all service locations. Keri Castañeda integrates evidence-based practices into the program model to improve outcomes for individuals transitioning from childhood to adult life. This leadership role involves coordinating logistics for supported employment initiatives to ensure successful job placements. Through constant evaluation of program efficacy, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Program Officer drives continuous improvement in service delivery. Castañeda ensures that operational workflows remain agile, allowing the organization to adapt quickly to the evolving needs of the community and the individuals served.

Jeremy Sidell, the Chief Development & Communications Officer at AbilityFirst, directs all fundraising campaigns and public outreach efforts. Sidell architects comprehensive marketing strategies that elevate the visibility of the organization and its mission to support individuals with disabilities. By managing donor relations, the Chief Development & Communications Officer secures the necessary capital to fund critical programs like supported employment and social recreation. Jeremy Sidell oversees the creation of all communication materials, ensuring that the brand message resonates with the public and potential partners. This leadership role involves identifying new opportunities for growth through community engagement and strategic storytelling. Through the cultivation of long-term relationships with supporters, the Chief Development & Communications Officer drives the financial stability required for ongoing operations. Sidell ensures that the public perception of the organization remains strong, effectively highlighting the positive impact of the services provided.