The Door Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Door has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, organizational development, operational oversight, and community outreach.

Committed to empowering disconnected youth through comprehensive, integrated support services, The Door fosters long-term success by providing education, health, and career development resources within a single, accessible environment for thousands of young people annually.

Leadership Roles at The Door

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kelsey Louise
  • Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Charles Dougiello
  • Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer - Lois O'Neill
  • Principal Chief Executive Officer - Anthony Cullotta
  • President & Owner - Susan Cotterman
  • President & Owner - Sonny Hall
  • Board President (Volunteer) - Yolanda Childs
  • President - Tara Melega
  • Kelsey Louise - Chief Executive Officer

    Kelsey Louise, the Chief Executive Officer at The Door, directs the overarching strategic vision for this multifaceted youth services organization. Managing the daily operations across the Manhattan headquarters and the Bronx satellite, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all departments, from Adolescent Health to Career Development, maintain high standards of care. Kelsey Louise architects long-term growth initiatives to expand the reach of these essential programs to more disconnected youth throughout the region. By coordinating with the Board and senior leadership, the Chief Executive Officer aligns internal resources with the evolving needs of the 11,000 young people served annually. This leadership role involves maintaining the financial health of the $30 million operating budget while fostering a culture of collaboration. Through rigorous oversight of the integrated service model, the Chief Executive Officer secures the stability required to support the mission of empowering the next generation.
    Kelsey Louise

    Charles Dougiello - Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Charles Dougiello, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at The Door, drives the foundational mission and long-term sustainability of the organization. Focusing on the expansion of legal services and supportive housing, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the most vulnerable youth receive comprehensive assistance. Charles Dougiello manages external partnerships and donor relations to secure the necessary funding for the diverse range of programs offered under one roof. By analyzing market trends in the nonprofit sector, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer adapts the service delivery model to address emerging challenges faced by young people in New York City. This executive role requires constant engagement with community stakeholders to amplify the impact of the organization. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer maintains the reputation of the institution as a leader in youth development and social support.

    Lois O'Neill - Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer

    Lois O'Neill, the Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer at The Door, oversees the educational programming and the integration of Broome Street Academy into the broader service framework. By aligning academic goals with career development pathways, the Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer ensures that students gain practical skills for future employment. Lois O'Neill directs the collaborative efforts between educators and social workers to provide a truly wraparound support system for the 300 students enrolled in the charter high school. This leadership position involves monitoring student outcomes and refining curriculum standards to meet the changing demands of the modern workforce. Through the implementation of innovative teaching methodologies, the Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer enhances the educational experience for all members. By prioritizing academic excellence and personal growth, the Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer strengthens the foundation upon which young people build their lives.

    Anthony Cullotta - Principal Chief Executive Officer

    Anthony Cullotta, the Principal Chief Executive Officer at The Door, manages the operational infrastructure and internal systems that support the organization's diverse service offerings. Focusing on the efficiency of the nutrition and recreation departments, the Principal Chief Executive Officer ensures that daily operations run smoothly for the thousands of youth visiting the facility. Anthony Cullotta architects scalable processes to improve staff collaboration and communication across all service areas. This executive role involves overseeing the physical maintenance of the SoHo headquarters and the Bronx satellite to provide a safe, caring environment. By optimizing resource distribution, the Principal Chief Executive Officer supports the frontline staff in delivering high-quality, confidential services. Through the implementation of data-driven management techniques, the Principal Chief Executive Officer enhances the overall effectiveness of the organization, ensuring that every dollar of the operating budget directly benefits the young people served.

    Susan Cotterman - President & Owner

    Susan Cotterman, the President & Owner at The Door, leads the strategic initiatives related to organizational branding and public perception. By cultivating relationships with national and international partners, the President & Owner elevates the profile of the organization as a premier model for youth services. Susan Cotterman directs the development of marketing campaigns that highlight the success stories of members, thereby increasing awareness and support for the mission. This leadership role involves working closely with the Board to ensure that the long-term goals of the organization remain aligned with the needs of the community. Through the oversight of public relations and outreach efforts, the President & Owner secures the visibility necessary to attract talent and resources. By championing the integrated service model, the President & Owner reinforces the commitment to providing comprehensive, free, and confidential support to all young people who seek assistance.

    Sonny Hall - President & Owner

    Sonny Hall, the President & Owner at The Door, focuses on the expansion of career development and workforce readiness programs. By building connections with local businesses and industry leaders, the President & Owner creates pathways for youth to transition from education into meaningful employment. Sonny Hall directs the design of vocational training modules that address the specific skill gaps identified in the current job market. This executive role involves evaluating the effectiveness of internship and job placement services to ensure high success rates for participants. Through the coordination of mentorship programs, the President & Owner fosters professional growth and confidence among the young people served. By aligning the career development department with the broader mission of the organization, the President & Owner ensures that every member receives the tools necessary to achieve independence and long-term stability in their professional lives.

    Yolanda Childs - Board President (Volunteer)

    Yolanda Childs, the Board President (Volunteer) at The Door, governs the strategic direction and fiduciary responsibilities of the organization. By leading the Board of Directors, the Board President (Volunteer) ensures that all policies and initiatives remain consistent with the core mission of supporting disconnected youth. Yolanda Childs facilitates high-level decision-making processes, providing guidance on governance and long-term sustainability. This leadership role involves monitoring the performance of the executive team and ensuring accountability across all departments. Through the oversight of committee activities, the Board President (Volunteer) addresses critical issues such as budget approval and risk management. By fostering a culture of transparency and ethical leadership, the Board President (Volunteer) strengthens the foundation of the organization. This volunteer position requires a deep commitment to the success of the youth served, as the Board President (Volunteer) works to ensure the institution remains a pillar of support for the community.

    Tara Melega - President

    Tara Melega, the President at The Door, oversees the implementation of health and wellness programs, ensuring that all members have access to essential medical and mental health services. By directing the clinical teams and coordinating with external health providers, the President ensures that the environment remains safe and supportive for every young person. Tara Melega architects programs that address the holistic needs of the youth, including nutrition and physical recreation. This leadership role involves managing the integration of health services with educational and career development departments to provide a seamless experience. Through the continuous assessment of health outcomes, the President refines the service delivery model to better meet the evolving needs of the population. By prioritizing the well-being of the members, the President plays a vital role in the overall success of the organization, ensuring that every individual receives the care required to thrive in school, work, and life.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Door Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Door?
    The Door is led by Kelsey Louise (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Charles Dougiello (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Lois O'Neill (Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of The Door’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Door includes leaders such as Kelsey Louise (Chief Executive Officer), Charles Dougiello (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Lois O'Neill (Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Door have?
    The Door has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Door’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Door includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer, Principal Chief Executive Officer, President & Owner.