AFP Long Island Officers and Board of Directors

Patricia Chambers Daly
Senior Director of Development
Hour Children
AFP Long Island Chapter President 2024 - 2026

Patricia Chambers Daly is the Senior Director of Development at Hour Children, where she leads the organization’s fundraising and communication strategies. With 35 years of experience in not-for-profit development, she focuses on building a robust individual giving program, implementing a corporate partnership program, and strengthening the grants and contracts program. As a member of senior leadership, Patricia utilizes her vast not-for-profit knowledge to assist in the administrative, program, and financial growth of Hour Children. In addition, she guides the organization's message through all forms of media.

Patricia has held key leadership roles, including 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 and is currently the Chapter President.

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."

Sima Matthes
The Good Dog Foundation
President Elect
Chair, Be the Cause 

Sima Matthes is the Vice President for Communications and Giving for The Good Dog Foundation, a nationwide leader in training and certification for therapy dogs. In this newly-established role at The Good Dog Foundation, Sima will lead a multi-year initiative to expand individual giving and grant revenue. She will also play a key role in 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.  

Sima is a member of the Jewish Community Relations Council 2025 Community Leadership cohort; the Jewish Learning Venture 2025 teacher cohort; and a member of the 2025 Legacy Elite Women's Panel.  

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."

Mary Fu
The People's Arc Suffolk
AFPLI Chapter Past President
Chair, Nominations Committee

Committee Chairs

Education Committee Chair
Pamela Mohr - Huntington Hospital Northwell Health Foundation
James Sheridan - Catholic Health

Membership Committee Co-Chairs
Amy Dash - North Shore Animal League America
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. - Women's Health Medicine Advancement Stony Brook University
Bobby D. Elhert - Inspire Hearts Fundraising
Anastasia Hagen - Touro Law Center
Sima Matthes - Good Dog Foundation
James Meyer - Planned Giving Solutions
Bryan Pollack - SCO Family of Services
Claudia Poglianich - Stellar Solutions
Alexis Pramberger - The WaterFront Center
Trish Rongo - The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
James Sheridan - Catholic Health
Anne Seifried - Non Profit Consultant
Judi Lach Veeck - Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame
Lauren Vlachos - Alzheimer's Disease Resource Center
Nicole L. Weingartner - Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP
Nyrekia White - Long Island Children's Museum

Get to Know Us - AFP Long Island

Jaime McGrade
Assistant Director of Development
Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook

Jaime McGrade is passionate about advocating for those who have served in the Armed Forces. Since 2023, Jaime has served as the Assistant Director of Development at the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University, overseeing all fundraising efforts for the Home. Her role focuses on securing critical funding for recreational needs, equipment, and capital improvements to better serve veterans and their families. The Home provides essential services, including nursing care, adult day health care, and short-term rehabilitation, while also acting as a key institution for training future geriatric healthcare professionals and advancing aging-related research.

Prior to her current position, she held various roles at the Guide Dog Foundation & America’s VetDogs, where she gained invaluable experience in the non-profit sector, helping veterans regain independence with the aid of highly trained service dogs. Earlier in her career, she served as a key member of the corporate events team at Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Jaime holds a BFA in Communications with a specialization in Public Relations from Long Island University, C.W. Post. She is an active member of her community, serving on the board of AFPLI and as a catechist at the Parish of the Holy Cross in Nesconset, NY. Above all, Jaime is devoted to her family, including her husband Brian, two children Peyton and Caroline, and their poodle, Coda.

Why AFPLI? 

“Serving on the board of the Association for Fundraising Professionals of Long Island is not just an honor, but a privilege. It is a chance to meet fellow nonprofit professionals and collaborate to strengthen the impact of philanthropy. I'm proud to help guide and shape a future where generosity and compassion drive positive transformation."

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.”

Claudia Poglianich
Stellar Solutions LLC

Claudia Poglianich is a distinguished nonprofit consultant with nearly 25 years of experience in nonprofit development. As the founder of Stellar Solutions LLC, she partners with organizations to implement effective strategies that enhance stakeholder engagement, optimize volunteer and board management, and drive increased philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, and foundations. 

Claudia has successfully led numerous fundraising initiatives, consistently achieving or exceeding their goals. Her expertise includes managing annual fundraising appeals, cultivating major gift prospects of up to $1,000,000, and directing impactful revenue-generating events. With a robust network in education, healthcare, and services for individuals with disabilities, she has supported nonprofits of all sizes in achieving their missions.

A respected speaker and advocate, Claudia has presented at various conferences and engaged with local officials to advance her clients' interests. She holds a bachelor's degree from Fashion Institute of Technology, a MFA from Parsons and an Advanced Marketing Certification from NYU Stern. Claudia actively serves on boards related to education and human services.

As a partner of the Energeia Leadership Academy, Claudia is dedicated to fostering change and envisioning innovative solutions to enhance the quality of life in the Long Island region. Through her strategic guidance, she empowers nonprofits to focus on engagement and stewardship, ultimately increasing support and revenue for their vital missions.

Claudia is driven by a passion for social impact partnering with organizations ready to elevate their initiatives and inspire transformation for her community and beyond.

 "As I continue to support nonprofits in their journeys I remain committed to fostering innovation and collaboration for a brighter future.  Together we can turn visons into reality."

Why AFPLI? 

"I was drawn to tAFP for the ability to connect with like-minded professionals, creating a collective voice that advocates for ethical fundraising practices and the non-profit sector, as well as highlighting the value of philanthropy in our local communities."

Alexis Pramberger
Donor Relations Coordinator
The WaterFront Center
AFPLI Co-Chair Outreach Committee

Alexis Pramberger grew up on Long Island before attaining 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 serves as the Donor Relations Coordinator at The WaterFront Center and seeks to expand fundraising efforts through donor stewardship, effective database management and reporting, and strategic partnerships. When she is not working, you can find her traveling or crafting.

Why AFPLI?

"Working at a small nonprofit means that as a new fundraiser, I wear many hats. 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."

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

Judi Lach Veeck serves as the Executive Director of the Long Island Music & 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.”

Lauren Vlachos, CFRE
Executive Director/CEO
Alzheimer's Disease Resource Center
AFPLI 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 three 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."