Allies Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Allies has 11 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and finance.

Dedicated to empowering individuals with special needs, Allies provides essential housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational services, fostering independence and community integration.

Leadership Roles at Allies

  • Chief Executive Officer - Yadar Mundi Haruna
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Krystal Odell
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Garrett Deiter
  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Steve Jackson
  • Interim Chief Executive Officer - Michael Haggerty
  • Chief Financial Officer - Leonard Nicolosi
  • Chief Operating Officer - Wendi Ford
  • President - Ted Nikolai
  • President - James Dike
  • Training Vice President, Quality Assurance - Darren Garansi
  • Yadar Mundi Haruna - Chief Executive Officer

    Yadar Mundi Haruna, the Chief Executive Officer at Allies, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. This leadership position involves guiding the agency's mission to provide comprehensive support services, including housing, healthcare, employment, and recreation, to individuals with special needs. Haruna ensures that all programmatic efforts align with the agency's core values and commitment to fostering independence within the communities served. The Chief Executive Officer oversees the integration of services to create a holistic support system, driving initiatives that enhance the quality of life for program participants. This role demands a deep understanding of nonprofit management and a strategic vision for sustainable growth and impact across New Jersey. Yadar Mundi Haruna's leadership focuses on expanding access to essential resources and advocating for the rights and needs of the special needs community.

    Krystal Odell - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Krystal Odell, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Allies, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management of the nonprofit agency. This executive role encompasses driving the organization's mission to deliver vital housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational opportunities to individuals with special needs. Odell ensures that Allies effectively serves its community by fostering environments that promote independence and choice. The President & Chief Executive Officer oversees the development and implementation of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of participants, while also managing stakeholder relationships and advancing the agency's public profile. Krystal Odell's leadership is critical in navigating the complexities of nonprofit operations and securing resources to sustain and expand the agency's reach throughout New Jersey. This position requires a robust understanding of social services and a commitment to empowering individuals with special needs.

    Garrett Deiter - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Garrett Deiter, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Allies, established the organization with a vision to support individuals with special needs. This foundational role involves setting the strategic course and ensuring the agency fulfills its commitment to providing housing, healthcare, meaningful employment, and recreational opportunities. Deiter's leadership guides the organization's efforts to empower participants to live independently within their chosen communities. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer oversees the agency's core operations, fostering a culture of compassion and dedication among staff. Garrett Deiter's ongoing involvement ensures the agency remains true to its founding principles, driving initiatives that enhance the lives of those served. This position requires a profound dedication to social impact and a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with special needs.

    Steve Jackson - Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Steve Jackson, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at Allies, initiated the agency's operations with a focus on comprehensive support for individuals with special needs. This executive position involves defining the strategic vision and overseeing the delivery of essential services, including housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational programs. Jackson's leadership ensures that the agency champions the independence and community integration of its participants. The Chief Executive Officer & Founder guides the organization's growth and operational effectiveness, maintaining a steadfast commitment to the agency's mission. Steve Jackson's role is pivotal in shaping the agency's impact and fostering an environment where individuals with special needs can thrive. This leadership requires a deep understanding of nonprofit management and a passion for social equity.

    Michael Haggerty - Interim Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Haggerty, the Interim Chief Executive Officer at Allies, provides critical leadership during a transitional period, ensuring continuity in the agency's mission. This executive role focuses on maintaining the high standards of service delivery, including housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs. Haggerty oversees the day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives, ensuring that the agency continues to support participant independence and community inclusion. The Interim Chief Executive Officer works closely with the leadership team and staff to navigate current challenges and opportunities. Michael Haggerty's temporary leadership is vital for sustaining the agency's impact and upholding its commitment to the individuals and communities it serves. This position demands strong management skills and a dedication to the agency's core values.

    Leonard Nicolosi - Chief Financial Officer

    Leonard Nicolosi, the Chief Financial Officer at Allies, directs the organization's financial strategy and management. This critical role ensures the fiscal health and sustainability of the nonprofit agency, enabling the continued provision of housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational services to individuals with special needs. Nicolosi oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, guaranteeing that funds are utilized effectively to support the agency's mission. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in financial planning and risk management, safeguarding the organization's assets and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. Leonard Nicolosi's expertise is essential for maintaining the agency's operational capacity and supporting its long-term growth objectives. This position requires meticulous financial oversight and a commitment to the agency's social impact.

    Wendi Ford - Chief Operating Officer

    Wendi Ford, the Chief Operating Officer at Allies, oversees the comprehensive operational execution of the agency's programs and services. This executive position is central to ensuring the effective delivery of housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs across New Jersey. Ford manages the day-to-day activities, optimizing processes to enhance participant support and foster independence. The Chief Operating Officer directs departmental functions, ensuring seamless coordination and resource management to meet the agency's strategic goals. Wendi Ford's leadership focuses on operational efficiency and the quality of services provided, driving initiatives that strengthen the agency's community presence. This role requires a deep understanding of nonprofit operations and a commitment to empowering individuals with special needs.
    Wendi Ford

    Ted Nikolai - President

    Ted Nikolai, the President at Allies, provides strategic leadership and oversight for the organization's core functions. This executive role is instrumental in guiding the agency's mission to deliver essential services, including housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational opportunities, to individuals with special needs. Nikolai ensures that the agency's operations align with its commitment to fostering participant independence and community integration. The President oversees key initiatives aimed at expanding the agency's reach and impact within the communities served. Ted Nikolai's leadership focuses on strengthening the organization's capacity to meet the evolving needs of its participants. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of nonprofit management and a dedication to social impact.

    James Dike - President

    James Dike, the President at Allies, directs the strategic vision and operational framework of the nonprofit agency. This executive position is vital for ensuring the effective provision of housing, healthcare, employment, and recreational services to individuals with special needs, promoting their independence and community inclusion. Dike oversees the implementation of programs designed to enhance the quality of life for participants. The President works to foster strong relationships with stakeholders and community partners, advancing the agency's mission. James Dike's leadership is focused on driving organizational excellence and expanding the agency's capacity to serve its constituents. This role demands a commitment to social welfare and a strategic approach to nonprofit management.

    Darren Garansi - Training Vice President, Quality Assurance

    Darren Garansi, the Training Vice President, Quality Assurance at Allies, leads initiatives focused on enhancing service delivery and staff development. This executive role is crucial for maintaining the high standards of care and support provided to individuals with special needs, ensuring programs related to housing, healthcare, employment, and recreation meet rigorous quality benchmarks. Garansi oversees the development and implementation of training programs designed to equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge. The Training Vice President, Quality Assurance ensures that all operational aspects adhere to established quality assurance protocols, promoting continuous improvement across the agency. Darren Garansi's dedication to quality is fundamental to upholding the agency's mission of fostering independence and community integration for its participants.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Allies Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Allies?
    Allies is led by Yadar Mundi Haruna (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Krystal Odell (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Garrett Deiter (Founder & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Allies’s executive team?
    The executive team of Allies includes leaders such as Yadar Mundi Haruna (Chief Executive Officer), Krystal Odell (President & Chief Executive Officer), Garrett Deiter (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Allies have?
    Allies has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Allies’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Allies includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Interim Chief Executive Officer.