AFP Long Island Officers and Board of Directors

Sima Matthes
Vice President for Individual and Institutional Giving
The Good Dog Foundation
AFP Long Island Chapter President 2026-2028

Sima Matthes is the Vice President for Individual and Institutional Giving for The Good Dog Foundation, a nationwide leader in training and certification for therapy dogs, where she is responsible for a multi-year initiative to expand individual giving and grant revenue. She is also responsible for elevating The Good Dog Foundation’s visibility within the philanthropic community, helping the organization to advance its mission of training and certifying therapy dogs to bring comfort and healing to those in need.

Sima has more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, donor stewardship, data management, grant writing, and relationship-building in the Long Island philanthropic community, both as a staff member and as a grant writing and strategic planning consultant for not-for-profits. She earned her Bachelor's degree in International Advertising and Public Relations from Ithaca College; her paralegal certification from New York University; and her Juris Doctor from New York Law School.  She is passionate about diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all spaces, and about centering the experience of less-frequently heard populations in philanthropy.  

Why AFPLI?

"AFP-LI has provided me with the opportunity to learn with--and from--the best our industry has to offer. Not only are our members exceptionally good at serving the organizations they represent; they are genuinely wonderful, passionate and compassionate people. There is so much good work to be done, and I am confident that with our members leading the way, Long Island's not-for-profits--and all those we serve--are in excellent hands."

Amy Dash
Senior Director, Individual Giving
North Shore Animal League America
AFP Long Island President Elect

 
“Fundraising is not really about money, it’s about people.”  These are the words that drive Amy Dash every day in her professional life, a life that was completely reshaped after a decade in financial planning for a major retailer. Amy began her career as a buyer for Federated Department stores prior to raising her two sons on Long Island.  After raising $75,000 in one evening for the local elementary school’s new playground, she thought, “Hmmm, I kinda like this stuff!”

She made the decision to complete NYU’s master’s Certification in Fundraising and Grant Writing and over the past 15 years she has held positions at non-profits including the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs, Old Westbury Gardens and the Landmark on Main Street.  In addition, she sits on multiple local boards, including the Association of Fundraising Professionals Long Island.  

Currently, Amy is the Senior Director, Individual Giving at what she lovingly calls, “the coolest non-profit where you can bring your dog to work,” North Shore Animal League America, in support of the longest running no-kill mission. There, deepening her relationships with donors, board members, volunteers and colleagues is the driving force behind her success.

Lauren Vlachos
Executive Director
Alzheimer's Disease Resource Center
AFP Long Island Chapter Secretary

Lauren Vlachos serves as the Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Disease Resource Center. This local nonprofit has been providing support, care, education, and resources to Long Island families impacted by cognitive decline since 1983. Lauren has been with the organization for 3 years and truly enjoys helping families navigate the challenging caregiving journey of dementia.

Prior to her current role, she served as the Chief Operating Officer for Scouting America, Suffolk County Council and was with the organization for 18 years. Lauren is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer who spent 2.5 years in Niger, West Africa working with the Carter Foundation on Guinea Worm Eradication. Lauren is the mom to 3 children, 2 dogs, a cat, and husband and is an avid gardener. 

Why AFPLI? 

"AFPLI has connected me to other professionals on Long Island who understand the challenges and rewards of philanthropy. It is a great group of professionals, supporting and cheerleading one another."

Committee Chairs

Education Committee Chair
Pamela Mohr - Huntington Hospital Northwell Health Foundation
Alexis Pramberger - Northwell Health Foundation

Membership Committee Co-Chairs
Judi Lach Veeck - Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame

IDEA Committee Chair
Nyrekia White - Long Island Children's Museum
Angela Brooks - LICADD

Members of the Board of Directors  

Carl Cervi - CCS Fundraising
Amy Dash - North Shore Animal League America
Joy DeDonato, Ed.D. - Blood Cancer United
Ilana Eichinger - Didit Marketing
Bobby D. Elhert - Inspire Hearts Fundraising
Jessica Liss Feur - Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts
Prashant Gupta - Paws of War
Anastasia Hagen - Touro Law Center
Jerry Kleinman - Consultant
Timothy Matekja - Gurwin Healthcare System
Sima Matthes - The Good Dog Foundation
James Meyer - Planned Giving Solutions
Bryan Pollack - SCO Family of Services
Alexis Pramberger - Northwell Foundation
Trish Rongo - The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
James Sheridan - Catholic Health
Jenifer Van Deinse - Planned Parenthood Hudson and Peconic
Judi Lach Veeck - Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame
Lauren Vlachos - Alzheimer's Disease Resource Center
Nyrekia White - Long Island Children's Museum

Get to Know Us - AFP Long Island

Patricia Chambers Daly
AFP Long Island Chapter Past President and Nomination Chair

Patricia Chambers Daly has more than 36 years of experience in not-for-profit development. 

Patricia has held key leadership roles, including Senior Director of Development at Hour Children, Vice President of Development & External Affairs at Nontraditional Employment for Women, Director of Development for both the Sisters of St. Dominic in Amityville and the Family Service Association of Nassau County (now Family and Children’s Association), and Executive Director of The Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education.

An active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Patricia upholds its Code of Ethical Standards, ensuring integrity and excellence in all aspects of her work. She has been a member of the Long Island Chapter of AFP for 35 years.

Why AFPLI?

"Thirty-five years ago, I transitioned from the corporate world into the development profession. One of the first things I did was join AFPLI (then NSFRE), unsure of what to expect. What I found was a welcoming, supportive community—people who mentored me, opened doors, and encouraged my growth in the field. I can truly say that AFPLI has shaped me into the professional I am today.

It is always an honor to serve my fellow development professionals—whether they are new to the field, seasoned experts, or dedicated staff and volunteers from organizations big and small. As a mentor, teacher, and colleague, and now as Chapter President, I am proud to give back to the organization that has given me so much."

Joy DeDonato, Ed.D.
Regional Executive Director - Metro New York  
Blood Cancer United

Ilana Eichinger
VP,  Client Services
Didit Marketing
AFP Long Island Chapter - Outreach Committee

With nearly two decades of experience spanning the marketing spectrum, from performance-driven data to high-level brand strategy, I have dedicated my career to driving measurable impact. My professional foundation is rooted in a rigorous project management mindset. I prioritize execution that directly influences the bottom line, ensuring every campaign serves a strategic, results-oriented purpose.

A pivotal chapter of my career was spent in the non-profit sector leading marketing efforts for Goodwill NYNJ. Managing the intersection of their retail stores and mission-driven programming gave me a unique vantage point on how multi-channel marketing can bridge the gap between business operations and social good.

Why AFPLI?

"Earlier in my career, I wasn't always convinced that marketing could truly change lives. My experience in the field changed that perspective entirely. I joined AFPLI because I want to empower the people making real-world changes in our community. I believe these change-makers deserve the most sophisticated tools to showcase their work. My goal is to help them tell their stories in meaningful ways that attract the donors, customers, and engagement they truly deserve to further their mission."

Jessica Liss Feuer                                                    
Director of Development
Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

Jessica Liss Feuer has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector with a focus on fundraising, philanthropic partnerships, and program development. She currently serves as the Director of Development at Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts. Each summer, Usdan welcomes thousands of students in grades K–12 from across Long Island and NYC to immerse themselves in a summer of high-quality, multidisciplinary arts education amid a vast 140-acre woodland campus.

Prior to Usdan, Jessica served as the Associate Director of Advancement and Philanthropy at the MLB Players Trust, the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from SUNY Binghamton. She lives in Glen Head with her husband, Harrison, and their Portuguese Water Dog, Monty. 

Why AFPLI? 

“I am passionate about making a meaningful impact and committed to building a career rooted in giving back to others. AFPLI is both an amazing resource and an incredible network of mission-driven individuals. I am honored to serve on the Board of AFPLI and work closely with Long Island’s philanthropic community.”

Jerry Kleinman
Consultant

Jerry Kleinman has helped lead development programs which secured nearly $3 Billion in philanthropic support for education, healthcare, biomedical research and the arts over the last five decades. 

He recently stepped down after 14 years at the American Technion Society, supporting the Technion- Israel Institute of Technology, as Executive Director of Principal gifts and Director of the New York Metro Region. Prior to that he served as Director of Development at both the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the New York Philharmonic, as well as VP for University Relations at Long Island University. His career also includes positions at Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, the Pittsburgh and San Diego Symphony Orchestras, and North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health Foundation. 

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he earned his BS in Economics from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. Jerry has two daughters and one granddaughter, and lives in Roslyn, NY with his wife Paola.

Why AFPLI?

“AFP provides a forum for engagement and growth, representing the broad range of philanthropic institutions and career paths. I have enjoyed, and benefitted, from the sharing of knowledge and experiences with colleagues in ways that I could not have imagined when I first joined in 1975, helping to start the Western PA Chapter. At this point in my career, it is a privilege to help advance the philanthropic community on Long Island, new friends and old.”

Timothy Matejka

Chief Development & Legislative Officer
Gurwin Healthcare System
AFP Long Island Government Affairs Chair 

Timothy Matejka is a seasoned nonprofit executive and fundraising strategist with more than 20 years of experience advancing mission-driven healthcare organizations through philanthropy, advocacy, and community engagement. He currently serves as Chief Development & Legislative Officer for the Gurwin Healthcare System, where he provides strategic leadership for fundraising, government relations, and legislative initiatives, working closely with senior leadership and the Board of Directors.

Prior to joining Gurwin, Tim held senior development leadership roles at Mount Sinai South Nassau, including Executive Director of Development, where he led all fundraising efforts and major initiatives supporting patient care and community health. His career reflects a strong record of building sustainable revenue, cultivating major gifts, and aligning philanthropic strategy with organizational goals.

Why be an AFPLI Board member?

"As a fundraising professional, I believe it is important to support organizations like the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Long Island (AFPLI), which advance ethical standards, professional development, and best practices in our field. AFPLI strengthens our profession, fosters the growth of future development leaders, and helps ensure that nonprofits across Long Island can maximize their impact. Serving on the Board allows me to give back to the community of professionals that has shaped my career while contributing to the continued growth and integrity of the fundraising profession."

James (Jim) Meyer
Planned Giving Solutions

Jim has over 40 years of experience in the financial services industry.  Most of his expertise is in the marketing and relationship arena.  Jim is regarded as a leader in the not-for-profit sector because of his general skills dealing with non-profits and fundraising, and his specific area of knowledge, Planned Giving.

Until January 1, 2025, Jim served as President of the Charitable Estate Planning Council of Long Island (CEPC, LI) part of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. He is again on the Board of Directors of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. 

Jim was both a  faculty member and Director of Alumni Relations and Development at Queens College of the City University of New York (CUNY) where he served from 1969 to 1982.  He periodically teaches on the Continuing Education faculty for Hofstra University, Long Island University – CW Post Campus, and Molloy College.  Jim has been a speaker for the CEPC, LI, the AFP, LI, the Planned Giving Group of Greater NY (PPGGNY), National United Cerebral Palsy, the Financial Planning Association (also a former president), SUNY state meetings, Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE DII) and has presented many Continuing Education Credit programs for Certified Public Accountants, Enrolled Agents, Insurance Agents, Certified Financial Planners, and Attorneys. 

He gives numerous presentations on Planned Giving to the Boards and/or Financial Committees of both local and out of town organizations.  Jim has been teaching the Planned Giving Course for the AFP, LI, for many years and in fact he started teaching the program when all the scenery was in black and white, color had not been invented yet.  Lastly, he serves on the Board of Directors of the New York Community Trust, Long Island Office, and the Estate Planning Councils of both the American Heart Association, LI and Northwell Health as well as several other charitable boards. 

A native New Yorker, Jim received his bachelor’s degree from SUNY, College at Brockport, and holds master’s degrees from both Columbia University and Hunter College of CUNY.  Jim lives in Westbury with his wife of 54 years Roberta, has two children Michele and Michael, and two grandchildren Matthew and Miriam.           

Why AFPLI?

“Friendships, learning and teaching, and AFPLI helps me make a difference.”

Pamela Mohr
Senior Director Of Development 
Northwell Huntington Hospital
AFPLI Education Committee Co-Chair

With 30 years of fundraising experience, Pamela has a demonstrated history of cultivating and stewarding major donors. She takes pride in building extraordinary and transformative relationships. 

Since her 2019 arrival at Northwell’s Huntington Hospital as senior director of development, Pamela and her team have solicited and closed gifts totaling $24.5M.  Prior to her current role, Pamela spent 7 years as the executive director for FACES at NYU Langone Medical Center, where she doubled fundraising revenue for epilepsy research, education, and patient services - bringing in $35M during her tenure.

Pamela spent 11 years working for the American Cancer Society, Eastern Division – holding several senior positions, including team lead, division director and vice president. In addition, Pamela was the event marketing manager for Ernst and Young in Manhattan for 5 years. She played an active role in AFP Manhattan for several years - where she co-chaired several conference tracks for Fundraising Day and served as a career mentor. Currently, she sits on the board of AFP Long Island, where she has chaired the education committee for 4 years. 

Why AFPLI? 

“As a professional fundraiser, I serve on the board of AFP to collaborate with peers, share best practices, and strengthen our collective impact on the community. This role allows me to contribute my expertise, learn from others, and advance our mission of fostering effective fundraising strategies across the region.”

Alexis Pramberger
Northwell Health Foundation
AFP Long Island Education Committee

Alexis Pramberger grew up on Long Island and earned her B.S. in Child Development and Public Health from Vanderbilt University while researching early learning and adolescent psychopathology. Translating studies to practice, she worked as a case manager for young adults transitioning out of the foster care system in Tennessee before returning to Long Island.

Upon her return, Alexis shifted her career focus, intent on working to transform the social sector through unique partnerships and the power of capital. Today, Alexis is with Northwell Health Foundation.

Why AFPLI?

"AFP's education programs and mentorship are critical to my success, teaching me the trade and expanding my knowledgebase in ways my smaller workplace cannot. AFP is my connection to the industry at large, fostering the connections, skills, and insights I need to be effective. And most important, the people of AFP are dedicated to your growth."

Trish Rongo
Director of Development
St. Vincent de Paul Long Island
AFP Long Island Co-Chair Philanthropy Day

Trish Rongo serves as the Director of Development for St. Vincent de Paul Long Island, where she is responsible for increasing donor giving, securing corporate sponsorships, grant writing, and event planning. Her work is rooted in supporting individuals and families in need through impactful programs that provide essential resources, financial assistance, and compassionate outreach.

With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she is a dedicated leader and community advocate with a passion for strengthening Long Island through service, philanthropy, and meaningful connection. Guided by the belief that “a society is only as strong as its weakest member,” she has made it her mission to support the most vulnerable in our community through her work across various nonprofit organizations.

She also serves as a Board Member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Long Island Chapter (AFPLI), where she co-chairs the Philanthropy Day Committee. AFPLI is a premier association that supports fundraisers through education, networking, and professional development, fostering a strong and connected nonprofit community across Long Island.

Why AFP?

She is honored to serve on the Board of AFPLI, where she also co-chairs the Philanthropy Day Committee. She is deeply committed to fostering growth and strengthening the Long Island community through impactful fundraising and development. She believes that collaboration among nonprofit organizations is essential—by working together, the sector becomes stronger, more innovative, and better able to serve those in need. Through all of her work, she is driven by a deep belief in the power of generosity, service, and community to create a better future for all.

Judi Lach Veeck
Executive Director
Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame
AFPLI Membership Co-Chair

Judi Lach Veeck serves as the Executive Director of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, located in Stony Brook.  The Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition, honor, and preservation of Long Island’s music and entertainment heritage.  Judi is responsible for overseeing operations and fundraising activities, organizing and applying for grants, and working with the board of directors to identify prospects.

A long-time board member of AFPLI, Judi has over thirty years of experience in working with nonprofits and fundraising. Prior to joining the Hall of Fame, Judi served as Administrator for the Education Foundation for Suffolk County Extension and as the Development & Public Affairs Director for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County.

Judi holds a Master of Arts in Social & Public Policy from Empire State University, and she earned her bachelor’s degree from Marist College.

WHY AFPLI?

"Because nowhere else can you find such a wealth of expertise and amazing professionals willing to share their insights. Truly invaluable to fundraisers and our non-profits!"

Robert Vitelli, MA
Chief Executive Officer
LGBT Network

As CEO at LGBT Network, Robert leads strategy, generates support, communicates impact, manages talent, and builds engagement to create safe spaces for the LGBT community of Long Island and Queens.  He has more than 25 years’ experience in the non-profit sector.

Robert began his career as a community educator at the LGBT Network.  Soon after, he began writing and winning grants, leading him to become the organization’s first development officer.  He built the fundraising operation from the ground-up, growing the organization from a $300K to $4.7MM, while exponentially reaching and serving more people.  Today, the LGBT Network operates four LGBT center locations throughout Long Island and Queens and produces three Pride parades and festivals.

Robert earned his Master’s degree from New York University, his Bachelor’s degree from Manhattan College, and was an AmeriCorps National Service Volunteer.  In addition to serving as a Board Member for AFPLI, he is also a Board Member of the Society of Human Resource Managers Long Island (SHRM-LI).  He was recognized by Webster Bank as their 2022 Pride Champion, recognized by Long Island Business News in 2024 as one of Long Island’s Most Influential Leaders, and was also a 2024 Diversity in Business Award recipient.

Why AFPLI? 

“AFPLI provided me with the education, guidance, and empowerment to start and grow my fundraising career, and now I’m proud to give back to the Chapter that helped me.”

Nyrekia White
Director of Development
Long Island Children's Museum
AFP Long Island Co-Chair DEI Committee

Nyrekia serves as Director of Development at the Long Island Children’s Museum, a role she assumed in April 2024. She is also a course facilitator with Adelphi University’s Center for Nonprofit Leadership, supporting the Excellence in Nonprofit Management certificate program within the School of Social Work.

Originally from Westchester County, New York, Nyrekia relocated to Long Island in 2003. She has worked in the nonprofit sector since 2011 and remains deeply committed to organizations that expand opportunities for disadvantaged populations, support youth development, and strengthen families. While pursuing her undergraduate studies, she spent a semester in England conducting comparative research on homelessness and social support systems in the U.S. and the U.K., an experience that reinforced her dedication to mission-driven work after 13 years in the corporate environment.

Nyrekia has been recognized for her impact on the Long Island nonprofit community, receiving the Power Women of Long Island Award from Schneps Media in 2021 and 2022, and serving as a panelist for Philanthropy Day in 2023.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education in Non-School Settings with a concentration in Social Work from LIU Post, along with dual Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Human Resources Management. A Certified Professional Life and Business Coach, Nyrekia also operates a consulting practice providing strategic guidance to nonprofits and entrepreneurs. She serves on the Boards of Directors for the Women’s Diversity Network and Westbury Arts and is committed to advancing philanthropy across Long Island through collaboration and collective impact.

Why AFPLI?

"The Long Island nonprofit community is both large and tightly connected, and I love being part of it. I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact and believe the best results come from collaboration. AFP–Long Island feels like the perfect place to connect with others who share my commitment to philanthropy and to work together to strengthen our community."