COMMUNITY PLANNING & ADVOCACY COUNCIL BOARD OF TRUSTEES
ANITA WEMPLE, PRESIDENT/CEO
DAVID SPECTOR, CHAIR
LORENZO MCFADDEN, VICE CHAIR
CALVERT TOLBERT, TREASURER
NATASHA PALMER, SECRETARY
TONYA COY
ANGEL FUENTES
TOM GURICK
IAN MOSLEY
NATASHA PALMER
DR. RONALD QUINCY
GURMEET “ASHU” SINGH
RHONDA WARDLOW-HURLEY
We are beyond thrilled to honor such an exceptional group of South Jersey civic and community leaders tonight! Your support has been instrumental in advancing our mission to create meaningful community solutions. We are deeply grateful for the dedication and commitment shown by the South Jersey community to the Community Planning & Advocacy Council (C.P.A.C.).
Thank you for your unwavering support, and welcome to an evening of celebration and gratitude!
Anita Wemple President/CEO
David Spector Chair of C.P.A.C. Board of Trustees
Creating Community Solutions
Our MISSION: The Community Planning & Advocacy Council advances social, racial, and economic justice to promote successful individuals, strong families, and thriving communities.
Our VISION: All individuals and families in greater Camden County live in communities that are strong and compassionate, protect the quality of life of their residents, and promote social, racial, and economic justice.
5:30 PM: NETWORKING, RECEPTION, BUFFET
6:30 WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS
ANITA WEMPLE, C.P.A.C. CEO & PRESIDENT
DIGNITARY RECOGNITION
C.P.A.C. BOARD MEMBER TOM GURICK
AWARDS PRESENTATIONS:
LA TINA T. GAINES RISING STAR
JUNISSE VENTURA RISING STAR
HON. PATRICIA EGAN JONES
HUMANITARIAN
PHILLIP W. HEATH
HUMANITARIAN
ALYSSA WILDS GAME CHANGER
ANTONIO D. TILLIS, PH.D. EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
CAMDEN CORPORATION WATCH PUBLIC SERVICE
HON. AL DYER ADVOCACY
YINDRA FINESSE WILSON VOLUNTEER
HON. NILSA I. CRUZ-PÉREZ
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP
TD CHARITABLE FOUNDATION CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION
THE THRIVE NETWORK EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE
HON. LOUIS GREENWALD LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
GoldSponsors:
VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA
SAMARITAN
REWORLD WASTE
SilverSponsors
CENTER FOR FAMILY SERVICES
THE THRIVE NETWORK
VINELAND CONSTRUCTION
BronzeSponsors
1ST COLONIAL COMMUNITY BANK
ATLANTIC CITY ELECTRIC
AMERICAN TRAINING CENTER
CAMCARE
CAMDEN COUNTY IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY
HOLMAN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
IRONWORKERS LOCAL #399
LUCY OUTREACH
NJ AMERICAN WATER
PSE&G
ROWAN UNIVERSITY
TD CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
FIFTH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT
DECEMBER 12, 2024
LEADERSHIP | EDUCATION | ADVOCACY | DEVELOPMENT
LA TINA T. GAINES RISING STAR
La Tina T Gaines, born and raised in Camden, New Jersey, is a graduate of Dr. Charles E. Brimm Medical Arts High School (2012). She earned an associate’s degree in human services from Camden County College and a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Sociology and Business from Rowan University in 2017.
Before graduating from Rowan, La Tina founded Adolescent Achievers Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping high school and college-aged students reach their full potential. Through life skills education, outreach events, and community collaborations, La Tina has assisted over 1,600 youth in overcoming life’s challenges and staying free of system involvement
In addition to her nonprofit work, La Tina is actively involved in her community as a PYAA cheerleading coach, Girl Scout Troop Leader, and member of the CCSD District Parent Advisory Council. She also serves as Worthy Matron of the Harmonia Chapter, Order of the Eastern Stars.
La Tina’s dedication to making a positive impact extends through her work with organizations like Parkside Business and Community in Partnership (PBCIP), Acclinate’s NOWINCLUDED, and the Camden City Democratic Committee. She credits her success to the unwavering support of her family her parents, grandparents, and especially her daughters, A'Zaylaa and Wanda, who motivate her to persevere through life’s obstacles
Inspirational Quote:
"Be the change you wish to see in the world."
~Mahatma Gandhi
COUNCIL
STAFF AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES
JUNISSE VENTURA RISING STAR
Junisse Ventura is a dedicated leader currently serving as the treasurer of the Rho Chapter of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc , and Co-President of Tri Alpha, a distinguished honor society for first-generation college students As a firstgeneration Trio member and nursing student, Junisse is committed to advancing healthcare through both academic excellence and community engagement.
An alum of the American Training Center, Junisse built her foundation in professional development and leadership early in her academic journey. Her passion for healthcare and leadership continues to drive her involvement in initiatives that support both personal growth and community well-being.
Inspirational Quote: "The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority "
~Kenneth H. Blanchard
HON. PATRICIA EGAN JONES HUMANITARIAN
Egan Jones has dedicated her life to public holding numerous roles from local councilwoman to county commissioner, surrogate judge, and member of the New Jersey General Assembly. She currently serves as the Director of Outreach for the Camden County Office of Veterans Affairs.
Throughout her career, Patricia has served as Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Ernest Schuck, State Senator Walter Rand, and Assembly Speaker Joe Roberts. As a Camden County Freeholder (now Commissioner), she played a pivotal role in the effort to bring the Battleship New Jersey to Camden. As surrogate judge, she streamlined the probate process and established the annual Adoption Day celebration
During her time in the legislature, Patricia co-chaired the Assembly Transportation and Authorities Committees and served on the Human Services, Higher Education, Joint Committee on Public Schools, and Budget Committees. She helped pass significant legislation, including minimum wage increases, Equal Pay laws, apprenticeship incentives, and measures to support mental health intervention by law enforcement.
Her contributions have earned her numerous awards, including the Police Chiefs Association Award, South Jersey Magazine’s Lifetime Legacy Award, and Rutgers University’s 50 Finest Graduates The Board of Trustees of the Battleship New Jersey honored her by naming the pier after her, and she has also been recognized by the Girl Scouts, the NJ Conference of Mayors, and the Women’s Political Caucus of NJ.
Inspirational Quote: "Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations."
~George Bernard Shaw
PHILLIP W. HEATH HUMANITARIAN
Heath is the President and CEO of Samaritan, endent not-for-profit provider of home-based re and supportive services based in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Founded in 1980 as one of the nation’s first hospices, Samaritan now serves over 11,000 patients, clients, and families annually across five New Jersey counties, offering primary care at home, palliative medicine, hospice care, grief support, and advocacy.
With more than 30 years of leadership experience in healthcare, Phillip has held prominent roles in sales, marketing, business development, government affairs, and operations at local, regional, and national levels His expertise spans hospice care, senior housing, long-term care, and healthcare technology, alongside efforts in corporate community affairs, social responsibility, and diversity initiatives.
Phillip’s guiding philosophy is to "provide what the patient wants and what the patient needs." This commitment drives Samaritan’s mission to help patients and their loved ones live their best lives every day.
Phillip holds a B.A. from Morehouse College and an M.S. in Health Services Administration from the University of Detroit Mercy. He also earned a certificate in Healthcare Leadership from Cornell University and is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc Phillip serves on the Board of Trustees for the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation, Responsive Care Solutions, and the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey.
Inspirational Quote: "If you want something you have never had, you must be willing to do something you have never done."
~Thomas Jefferson
ALYSSA WILDS GAMECHANGER
Alyssa Wilds is the Director of Corporate & Community Relations at Reworld Waste LLC, where she leads community outreach efforts, corporate partnerships, and Environmental Justice initiatives. Additionally, she chairs the Reworld Black Professionals employee resource group, aligning her professional work with her passion for advocacy and civic engagement.
A proud Camden native, Alyssa graduated from Camden High School in 1990 and went on to earn her undergraduate degree from Rowan University and her master’s from Wilmington University. Her life mission to "be the person I needed but did not have" has driven her to become an award-winning social justice advocate, championing the causes of women and children in communities like her own Alyssa began her career in child protective services in Philadelphia before returning to Camden to lead one of New Jersey’s oldest nonprofit agencies.
Over the years, Alyssa has played a key role as a nonprofit advisor, assisting in startup development, board formation, and grants management for numerous organizations. Her multifaceted career includes roles as a podcaster, motivational speaker, ghostwriter, mentor, philanthropist, and corporate board member. Alyssa is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and a budding urban farmer.
Alyssa’s work is driven by a deep commitment to representing vulnerable populations, ensuring that those without a voice are heard, and providing solutions that create meaningful impact
Inspirational Quote: "If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are an excellent leader."
~Dolly Parton
ANTONIO D. TILLIS, PH.D. XCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
Dr Antonio D Tillis has served as Chancellor of Rutgers University-Camden since July 2021, leading this Carnegie R2 classified research institution. An internationally recognized scholar, Chancellor Tillis brings decades of higher-education experience focused on elevating research, student success, civic engagement, and global perspectives.
In his first year, Rutgers–Camden achieved Minority Serving Institution status, increasing access to higher education for low-income and minority students. In 2023, the university was designated an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). Chancellor Tillis also launched the “15 in 5” strategic initiative, committing to 15 transformative programs over five years aimed at academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement His efforts helped Rutgers–Camden rise in national rankings, including U.S. News & World Report’s list of top public schools and best colleges for veterans.
Before Rutgers, Dr. Tillis held leadership positions at the University of Houston, College of Charleston, Dartmouth College, and Purdue University. His scholarship in AfroHispanic studies has earned him prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Fellowship to Brazil. He is also a coeditor and author of several books, with his work presented at conferences around the world.
Dr Tillis serves on numerous boards, including the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities and the African American Museum in Philadelphia
A first-generation college graduate, he holds degrees from Vanderbilt University, Howard University, and the University of Missouri.
Inspirational Quote: "The ultimate test of leadership is how well you bring out the best in others."
~John W. Gardner
C MDEN CORPORATION WATCH PUBLIC SERVICE
Camden Corporation Watch was founded in 1986, born from a collaborative effort initiated in 1982 by security leaders from RCA, B.P.U.M. Security, Campbell’s Plant, and Rutgers University. These early meetings focused on enhancing cooperation in security matters and led to the creation of the organization.
As a nonprofit, Camden Corporation Watch is dedicated to reducing crime and fostering strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies. The organization also prioritizes the professional development of law enforcement and security professionals throughout New Jersey, fostering a network of shared expertise and mutual support.
By 2024, Camden Corporation Watch has grown to include 42 member organizations across Camden, NJ, and continues to expand Under the leadership of President Gregory Pease, the organization remains committed to its mission of enhancing community safety through collaboration and education, while supporting the professional growth of those in the law enforcement and security sectors.
Inspirational Quote: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
~Maya Angelou
HON. AL DYER ADVOCACY
proud product of the Camden City Public School system and graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management Technology from Montclair State University. He returned to Camden City Public Schools as a communication technology teacher, where he founded a middle-school pilot program for communications and later served as the district's technology coordinator.
In 2008, Al earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Wilmington University, propelling him into advanced roles such as Athletic Director, Vice Principal, Director of Career and Technical Education, and Senior Director of Athletic Programming within the district
With over 20 years of experience in youth athletics and education, Al joined the Camden Health and Athletic Association (CHAA) in 2017, where he currently serves as Athletic Executive Director. He also continues his role as Senior Director of Athletic Programming for Camden City School Public Schools.
A dedicated public servant and motivator, Al Dyer is committed to helping others view challenges as opportunities for growth. His motto: "There are no losers, only winners who accept the challenge and participate in the game," reflects his leadership philosophy.
In December 2020, Al was sworn in as a Camden County Commissioner, following his service on the Pennsauken Township Committee and Planning Board He has lived in Pennsauken for over 20 years with his wife, Medinah, and their three daughters.
Inspirational Quote: "It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men."
~Frederick Douglass
YINDRA FINESSE WILSON VOLUNTEER
esse Wilson, born on July 1, 1953, is the only f Joseph and Gloria Wilson. She grew up in New Jersey, and graduated from Camden High une 1971. Raised in a faith-centered family, Yindra he Lord at age 10 and found her spiritual calling at e Baptist Church. There, she has served as a Deaconess, Choir member, Trustee, and Missionary Board member for over 40 years.
Yindra’s passion for service extends to her long involvement with Senior Corps RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program). RSVP provides volunteer opportunities for seniors to support local non-profits while enhancing their own mental and physical well-being Yindra has made a significant impact in this program, helping seniors contribute to their communities
Her professional career began at Western Union in 1971, where she worked until the company’s relocation in 1989. Yindra then transitioned into the insurance industry, working at CSC Insurance and retiring from Farmers Insurance in 2021.
Family is central to Yindra’s life, and her family gatherings are always filled with joy and laughter. In her spare time, she enjoys flea markets, crocheting, and reading.
Inspirational Quotes:
"I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel " ~Maya Angelou
"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." ~Psalms 118:24
HON. NILSA I. CRUZ-PÉREZ WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP
z-Pérez was born and raised in Bayamón, Puerto studied Political Science at the University of Puerto Rico while working for the Popular Democratic Party. In 1981, she joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany, continuing her education through Temple University, the University of Maryland, and other institutions. She was honorably discharged in 1987.
In 1991, Nilsa relocated to Camden, New Jersey, where she began working as an Executive Assistant at Cooper’s Ferry Development Association. In 1995, she was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly, becoming the first Hispanic woman State Legislator in New Jersey. During her tenure, she served as Chair of the Consumer Affairs Committee and held roles on multiple committees, including Housing and Local Government, Human Services, and Military and Veterans Affairs. She was also a Deputy Majority Leader.
Nilsa sponsored several key pieces of legislation, including the Camden Municipal Rehabilitation and Economic Recovery Act of 2003. She also pushed for reforms in public housing, child protective services, and ethical standards for public officials.
From 1998 to 2013, Nilsa served at the Camden County Improvement Authority, eventually becoming Director of Constituent Services and Hispanic Affairs. She continues her public service as a State Senator for New Jersey’s Fifth Legislative District, where she chairs the Senate Economic Growth Committee and serves on various others
Nilsa lives in Barrington with her husband, Luis, and is the proud mother of three children: Luis, Angel, and Linette.
Inspirational Quote: "As you discover what strength you can draw from your community... build bridges instead of walls."
~Sonia Sotomayor
TD CHARITABLE FOUNDATION CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION
The TD Charitable Foundation is the philanthropic arm of TD Bank, one of the 10 largest banks in the United States. TD Bank serves over 9 8 million customers across more than 1,100 locations throughout the Northeast, MidAtlantic, Metro D C , the Carolinas, and Florida, offering a full range of retail, small business, and commercial banking products and services.
Since its establishment in 2002, the TD Charitable Foundation has donated over $323 million to local nonprofits from Maine to Florida. The Foundation is committed to supporting programs that strengthen communities and create positive change.
Inspirational Quote: "Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect."
~Vince Lombardi
THE THRIVE NETWORK EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE
The Thrive Network is dedicated to promoting the well being of children, adolescents, adults, their families, and the communities that support them Comprised of services like Where Kids Thrive (Intensive In-Community Services), Where Families Thrive (Outpatient Services), Thrive Anywhere (Telemedicine), and the Thrive Institute (APT Credentialed Training and Intern Development), the organization provides compassionate therapy and counseling to help individuals navigate life’s most difficult challenges.
Specializing in supporting children and families who have experienced significant distress, The Thrive Network offers diverse services addressing ADHD, developmental disabilities, behavioral challenges, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Recognizing the complexities of modern life including financial pressures, family dynamics, cultural shifts, and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic The Thrive Network focuses on solutions that help families thrive, not just survive
Serving all of South Jersey since 2014, The Thrive Network is committed to ongoing learning, professional development, and fostering a nurturing environment for both clients and staff. Its mission is to empower families with scientifically rooted tools, cultivate a well-prepared team, and create a space where everyone can thrive.
Inspirational Quote: "The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion."
~Paulo Coelho
HON. LOUIS GREENWALD LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
man Lou Greenwald has represented New Jersey’s tive District since 1996 and currently serves as Majority Leader Throughout his tenure, he has been a driving force behind several key initiatives In 2003, he authored legislation to reform New Jersey’s auto insurance market, successfully increasing competition and addressing the state’s insurance crisis. He has also led efforts to fundamentally reform New Jersey's property tax system, securing full funding for programs like the Senior Freeze and ANCHOR while raising the Earned Income Tax Credit and doubling the veteran income tax deduction.
A strong advocate for cancer research, Majority Leader Greenwald was instrumental in bringing a branch of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey to South Jersey, ensuring local access to life-saving care. He has also championed gun violence prevention by enacting laws that limit ammunition magazines, ban armor-piercing rounds, and close background check loopholes Recognizing gun violence as a public health crisis, he supported hospital-based intervention programs to reduce cycles of violence.
On healthcare, he played a pivotal role in securing affordable healthcare services for women in New Jersey and spearheaded the creation of the state-wide healthcare insurance exchange. More recently, he authored legislation to address New Jersey’s healthcare workforce shortage.
A staunch advocate for the disability community, Majority Leader Greenwald has sponsored legislation to support pediatric medical daycare providers and improve workplace safety for individuals with seizure disorders
His leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including Legislator of the Year honors from several state organizations.
Inspirational Quote: "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."
