Serving Morris, Passaic, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Union, Warren, Somerset, Hunterdon & Sussex Counties
Meet the Staff
Ted K. Mayer, CEO
My career has spanned over 35 years in Human Services. As owner and operator of a regional wellness company, in 2016 I believed it was time for a change.
As an experienced business development specialist with quantitative results in Operations and Human development I was entrusted to grow a small local service provider seeking to expand their DDD services.
While the opportunity provided me with a solid understanding of what could be made available to families, it became apparent to me that the providers were satisfied with delivering the status quo.
CSN was born out of a desire to deliver meaningful person centered services to a clearly underserved group.
Word spread quickly, and Community Supports Network grew as a result of our ability to see beyond the status quo by ensuring that everyone we serve including our staff, live their best life.
Linda N. Husti, CFO
Linda brings over 30 years of fiscal management expertise to Community Supports Network, that includes her CPA and MBA accomplishments.
In her role, she leads and provides strategic direction to the accounting team, with a focus on internal controls, forecasting, growth opportunities, as well as financial oversight and management of the organization.
As the former Chief Financial Officer for one of New Jersey’s largest long-term and subacute facilities, Linda brings with her a wealth of experience in the field of health care. Her passion for making a difference in peoples’ lives makes her a powerful addition to the CSN Team.
Linda received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Montclair State University and an MBA in Finance from Ramapo College.
Mary Estren
Chief Compliance Officer
Mary studied at William Paterson University and worked as a day program supervisor for over 10 years while overseeing the day-to-day operations in accordance with state guidelines.
Mary’s role at CSN started with the position of Direct Support Professional. Within a year she was promoted to the position of Training & Compliance Director. Mary’s important role is identifying different areas of risk in the organization and ensuring compliancy is met within DDD/State regulations through employee training and various audit trails.
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“I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives and helping our individuals develop their inner potential”.
"It doesn’t matter how slow we go as long as we are consistent.”
René Wharton
Director of Family Support Services
After attending school, René chose to work in the Human Services Field having held various support roles in a vast and diverse capacity ranging from a Behavioral Health Counselor to a Mental Health professional. After starting out as a Direct Support Professional in 2017, René transitioned through several administrative roles including Area Director.
René’s exceptional background, training and skill set led to her Regional Director position at Community Supports Network. Her passion, guidance and steadfast care for others is of paramount importance to her success as René works very closely with families and staff.
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"It takes someone special to teach someone special. Do not listen to those who say you can’t. Listen to your inner voice telling you that you can."
Michele Johnson
Director of Independent Living Services
After attending Centenary College and graduating with a bachelor’s in psychology, Michele worked in multiple group homes as a supervisor overseeing the day-to-day life of individuals to enable them to live as normal of a life as possible.
Michele brought her passion and love for her work to CSN where she began as a Direct Support Professional in 2017. Her skillset and hard work led to Michele’s promotion as Director of Training. With a strong background in Residential along with DDD/state regulations, Michele currently holds the position as the Director of Quality Assurance.
The important role Michele has is identifying the needs of individuals and putting forth the importance of their needs within the organization to better the quality of life for the individuals.
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“Make sure you love what you do; it makes life a lot easier.”
Success Story
We helped an individual move out of his family home and into his own apartment for the very first time. The family thought he wouldn’t adjust well due to never being on his own as his family did nearly everything for him. Despite doubts, he adjusted so well that his family wanted staff to bring him home every weekend because they missed him. As a team, everyone worked together establishing a new routine of going to program 3 days a week. When he came home, staff assisted him with chores, cooking simple meals at home, and completing his everyday hygiene. Staff also helped him integrate into the community by dining out, going to the library, the book store, shopping, and bowling to name a few. He is currently being serviced by CSN but no longer needs hands on services. Only verbal prompts and reminders are needed.
Simon Sy
Director of Supported Employment Services
With a background in engineering from Hudson County Community College and 10 years of experience working in New York City, Simon has developed strong skills in customer service and talent/operations management. Now serving as Director of Employment Services, he brings extensive expertise and a proven track record to his role.
He began his career as a Direct Support Professional in the behavioral department, where his dedication and creative approach quickly stood out. Simon soon transitioned to the Supported Employment department, applying his knowledge to help individuals achieve their vocational goals. His hard work and leadership have made a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals he has guided.
Simon is passionate about creating opportunities, fostering inclusion, and empowering individuals to succeed in their professional journeys. His focus on building supportive work environments drives his success in this field.
SE Program
General Services:
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Providing person-centered pre-placement, job coaching, and long-term follow-along services to DDD and DVRS participants who are seeking or are currently competitively employed.
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We focus on finding the best-fit job for the individual.
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Accepting referrals in Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Morris, Hudson, Sussex counties.
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Offering Support Coordination & Family Educational Seminars for Supported Employment Services
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Clarke K. Mayer
Director of Operations
After graduating from William Paterson University, Clarke spent many years in the film and photography industry. His love of the arts has helped many clients fulfill their aspirations as he has worked both as a Direct Support and Employment Specialist during his career with CSN.
As a filmmaker, photographer and author Clarke oversees CSN’s social engagement and media outreach. Utilizing his applied science background, he is also responsible for monitoring the technology systems CSN uses in its day-to-day operations.
When Clarke is not working at CSN, he is writing a new novel, penning a screenplay, or hiking with his dog Pam. He is most proud of the help he has provided our clients in developing their skills across many disciplines including film and camera techniques, as well as writing and film editing.
Lorraine Evans
Regional Director and Handle with Care Instructor
After relocating from North Carolina to New Jersey, Lorraine discovered her passion for the I/DD community. This led her to Community Supports Network, where her six-year journey began as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).
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Over the years, she has grown within the organization, achieving significant personal and professional milestones. Today, as a Regional Director, she remains committed to fostering independence and supporting individuals to live the fulfilling lives they deserve.
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In addition to her leadership role, she serves as an instructor for the state-mandated Handle with Care training, promoting best practices in safety and care. Her journey with Community Supports Network continues to fuel her passion, determination and dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.
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Monika Malecot
Area Director
Monika attended Bergen Community College studying Human Biology while starting her career with CSN. Over ten years of her experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities has allowed Monika to grow in her role as an Area Director. Monika’s role requires of her to oversee the day-to-day work and operations of lower -level managers and direct support professionals to ensure organization guidelines.
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“If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Carlos A. Lopes
Area Director and Handle with Care Instructor
Carlos graduated from Ramapo College and New York University with a master’s degree in social work. After graduating, Carlos worked in two group homes and a day program before coming to CSN in 2020. At CSN, Carlos started as a DSP and job coach then quickly rose up to becoming an area director. Shortly after becoming an area director, Carlos expanded his role by becoming one of the Handle with Care instructors and isn’t looking to stop any time soon.
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“The circumstances of one’s birth are irrelevant; it’s what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are.”
Vivian Burgos
Administrative Assistant & HR Generalist
Upon graduating Southern New Hampshire University with a bachelor's degree in psychology, Vivian sought out a job that directly impacted people’s lives for the greater good. Though only being with CSN for a short period of time, Vivian has garnered what feels like a place of employment that does just that. Assisting with different avenues such as compliance, HR tasks, and onboarding has given her a deeper appreciation to help in any way she can.
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“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
Anthony Carullo
Area Director
After graduating from Ramapo College with a bachelor’s degree in business management, Anthony joined the Community Supports Network team. Anthony has a variety of critical roles within the company, including but not limited to assisting with payroll, the new employee onboarding process and overseeing the transportation mileage and EVV log systems.
Anthony is dedicated to his work and always thinks outside the box. Being heavily involved in numerous operational departments allows him to regularly meet and interact with many different people. Helping people and going above and beyond has always been an essential aspect of his life, which aligns with CSN’s core goals and values.
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Eileen Froehlich
Senior Compliance Auditor
Eileen Froehlich studied at Pace University earning her degree in Psychology. Eileen decided after graduating that she would like to use her passion and talents for helping others by entering the healthcare field. She worked first as a youth mentor to trouble youth in a residential setting and then transitioned to assist adults as a Support Coordinator.
It was after being a case manager for several years that Eileen chose to find something that fit her other passion, reading and combine both passions into one job. Eileen has brought a new perspective to CSN as having previously been on the other side of the coin and has enjoyed writing state policy and being an integral part of the CSN team.
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"How wonderful is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."​
― Anne Frank, Anne Frank's Tales from the Secret Annex: A Collection of Her Short Stories, Fables, and Lesser-Known Writings
Emily Aguirre
Regional Director / Student Internship Coordinator
Emily graduated from Montclair State University, where she discovered the field of Family Science and Human Development, which deeply resonated with her passion for helping others.
Over the years, Emily has gained extensive experience working with diverse age groups. These roles enriched her understanding of an individual's growth and development, as well as the unique experiences families navigate in their daily lives. Emily’s journey with CSN began as an intern, and within three years, she thrived by embracing the opportunities provided by the company, gaining valuable knowledge through many new and exciting roles.
Emily is dedicated to helping individuals discover and reach their fullest potential, ensuring they receive the highest quality support. She is equally passionate about empowering staff, fostering an environment where they feel heard, valued, and appreciated for the essential role they play in enriching the lives of those they support..
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"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."
"We're Here to Make a Difference in Your Life"
