Mayra founded Legacy Empowerment Services in 2019 after years working as a social worker and support coordinator. She saw firsthand how personalized, dignified care could transform lives — and built Legacy to deliver exactly that. She leads with compassion, champions individualized planning, and mentors the team to always put participants first.
Amanda helps participants build the everyday independence that makes a real difference — from apartment readiness and budgeting to self-advocacy and daily routines. Families consistently praise her patience and the confidence their loved ones gain working alongside her.
Marcus partners closely with families and state support coordinators to build individualized plans and keep every service on track. Known for superior, responsive communication, he makes sure nothing falls through the cracks and every participant feels supported.
Priya leads hands-on cooking sessions focused on meal planning, food safety, and kitchen confidence. Her classes are a participant favorite — practical life skills taught in a warm, encouraging environment.
Devon guides participants through knowledge-test prep and road-test readiness toward safe, independent driving. His calm, structured approach helps participants build the skills and confidence to earn their license.
Sofia brings warmth and consistency to daily supports, building trusted relationships with every participant she works with. Dependable and caring, she is the kind of DSP families hope to be matched with.
Mr. Perez is Legacy’s CFO and Director of Finances & Logistics. He oversees a variety of departments including Human Resources, Transportation, and Technology. He also works as a Direct Support Professional and Life Skills Coach. Mr. Perez has worked with numerous male participants over the past four years and has created individualized plans to assist them in the areas of relationships, hygiene, communication, financial literacy, and explore community outings.
Most notably, he has created a Ride Share system in which participants needing these services can call or text a Legacy representative to coordinate their ride.
Ms. Martinez also believes in the power of effectively mentoring her team by implementing new and innovative programs that benefit both staff and participants. She has developed programs such as all facets of life such as the Participant Intern Program, Road Instruction Program, and the Home Efficiency Program that will assist participants with all facets of life.
As CEO, Ms. Martinez is responsible for all current operations and future projections of Legacy. Despite her hectic schedule, she enjoys speaking with caregivers about long-term planning. More than anything else, she enjoys working directly with Legacy’s participants and those transitioning to living independently or needing intensive skill training.
Ms. Martinez also believes in the power of effectively mentoring her team by implementing new and innovative programs that benefit both staff and participants. She has developed programs such as all facets of life such as the Participant Intern Program, Road Instruction Program, and the Home Efficiency Program that will assist participants with all facets of life.
As Legacy’s HR Associate, Ms. Marquez oversees all human resource functions including handling recruitment processes, onboarding new employees, maintaining employee records, and assisting with payroll and benefits administration, ensuring efficient HR operations and compliance with company policies.
Ms. Marquez has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Montclair State University and a Certificate in Leadership Development from the Center for Creative Leadership in San Diego, CA. Ann is also the proud mom of a great teenage special needs son who is currently learning how to navigate the transition from child to adulthood and helping his mom champion neurodiversity.
Ms. Johnson joined the Legacy team in November of 2024. In her role as Transportation Services Supervisor, she oversees the coordination of transportation services, ensuring participants receive reliable, safe, and supportive assistance. She works closely with families and team members to maintain clear communication, organization, and accurate documentation.
In addition to her supervisory responsibilities, Ms. Johnson is also an active member of the event planning team, where her attention to detail and dedication to Legacy’s mission enhance every project she supports. With over three years of experience as a Direct Support Professional, she brings a strong background in the DDD field and a deep passion about serving the community.
Ms. Johnson holds a Master’s degree in Vocal Performance from Montclair State University and also provides private vocal instruction tailored to the unique needs of each student.
Ms. Hamill has been a valued member of the Legacy team for over six years, dedicated to the mission of helping adults with disabilities live meaningful, connected, and fulfilling lives. In her role as Director of Strategic Partnerships, Ms. Hamill cultivates the vital community connections that promote independence and growth for our participants. She leads Legacy’s external presence by identifying new community opportunities and overseeing the successful production of the company newsletter.
Over the past year, Ms. Hamill has also directed the full scope of Legacy’s Inclusive Culinary Instruction Department. Since taking over the department’s operations, she has spearheaded its strategic growth and expanded its programming to enhance participant engagement.
By combining her background as a grant writer with her bachelor’s degree in English and Education from Georgian Court University, Ms. Hamill ensures that every partnership she builds further empowers our participants to reach the summit of their goals. This commitment to our mission, as well as to the individuals and families we serve, truly embodies the “Legacy Way.”
Mrs. Altamore has been a vital member of the Legacy team for over 5 years. In her time at Legacy, she has provided copious amounts of support to the executive team as the technology and development associate.
Mrs. Altamore also has a significant role on the marketing team as its Senior Marketing Liaison. In this role she helps create and monitor Legacy’s social media platforms and launch community events throughout northern New Jersey.
Additionally, Mrs. Altamore is an instructor and enjoys working hands-on with her participants. Over the four years, she has worked with multiple participants, providing services ranging from academic tutoring to drivers’ education to life skills and community-based support. Her dedication and passion have helped her participants feel empowered. Mrs. Altamore believes that by equipping them with essential skills, she is helping to pave the way for their future success and independence.
Ms. Zuppardo is Legacy’s housing coordinator . She manages and oversees the NJ FamilyCare Housing Supports Program, which assists individuals in finding and maintaining housing across New Jersey through The Division of Medical Assistance and Human Services (DMAHS).
A lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities, Ms. Zuppardo has more than eight years of experience in various special education roles. She also completed an internship at Autism Speaks, working across departments, and served as a counselor at the Disability Resource Center at Montclair State University.
She is deeply passionate about her work and committed to breaking down barriers within the disability community. She firmly believes that with the right support, everyone, regardless of their challenges, can reach their full potential. Yet no professional experience has shaped her as profoundly as her role as sister to her brother, MJ, who is diagnosed with autism.
In her role at Legacy Empowerment Services, Ms. Martinez provides essential administrative support as its housing case manager. Jenny is also an instructor who takes pride in her work with participants. She offers academic tutoring, helping learners achieve their educational goals with personalized support and guidance.
Additionally, Ms. Martinez coordinates efforts to prepare participants to take the road test. She equips inexperienced drivers with the skills and confidence they need to navigate the road safely and responsibly.
With a commitment to excellence in every facet of her professional life, Ms. Martinez is a valued member of her community, dedicated to empowering others and making a positive impact.
Jeanne Cruz is the Training Compliance Coordinator for Legacy, where she handles all training initiatives and ensures compliance with New Jersey state mandates. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Rider University, along with teaching certifications as a Teacher of Students with Disabilities and in English as a Second Language. Jeanne brings experience as a transition coordinator for various schools in New Jersey, 14 years of teaching experience, and more than 20 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities. She is passionate about assisting individuals with disabilities in becoming empowered, self-determined individuals.
Ms Quintana is passionate about culinary arts and has goals to continue to pursue a career in the field. She is currently pursuing her GED in order to bring her closer to that goal.
As Legacy’s Career Coaching Coordinator, Mr. Brady oversees Legacy’s team of career coaches. Knight joined the Legacy team in March of 2025. He is also an Instructor who takes pride in his work providing Supported Employment services. He is committed to employment access for all no matter what that might look like.
Mr. Brady has many years of experience working with underserved communities and advocating for them across all settings. He is dedicated to assisting every participant in gaining the skills they are interested in and developing tools to meet their unique needs.
Mr. Brady graduated from Stockton University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Community Health Education. Minoring in Disability Studies and Integrative Health. Shortly after, he obtained a Certified Health Education Specialist license. He is committed to connecting the individuals he supports to community access so they can lead a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle.
He is passionate in his goals to provide access and equity for the disabled community. With an advanced level of awareness of social services, nonprofits, and resources from their time in case management, Mr. Brady is extremely effective with providing resources for any of his participants.
Ashley Rufilli is a dedicated professional with experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities through life skills coaching, community-based services, and individualized support. She is currently pursuing her Doctorates in Clinical Psychology, with a strong interest in trauma and PTSD among military veterans, as well as Gerontology, including the psychological and emotional needs of older adults affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
At Legacy Empowerment, Ashley enjoys connecting with members, families, and support coordinators to help identify services that best fit each individual’s needs and goals. Having also worked directly as a coach, she understands the importance of patience, communication, consistency, and creating a comfortable environment where members feel heard, supported, and encouraged.
Ashley is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Italian. She especially enjoys helping individuals develop practical life skills, strengthen communication, build confidence, and work toward greater independence. Her background and continued education have strengthened her passion for supporting individuals across different stages of life and helping families navigate services with compassion and understanding.
Ashley is passionate about making the service process as welcoming, organized, and smooth as possible while ensuring that each member receives individualized support based on their unique strengths, needs, and goals.
Mr. Alicea is Legacy’s Transportation Analyst. He is responsible for overseeing and analyzing Legacy’s transportation data and identifying trends . He evaluates ride frequency, mileage, costs, and usage patterns, and interprets the data to enhance the service. The data points is then generated into detailed reports that highlight their progress toward greater independence.
Additionally, he assists with Legacy’s call Center by gathering real-time data, updating necessary records, and ensuring accuracy. Further, Mr. Alicea ensures that Legacy’s services remain efficient, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of the participants Legacy supports.
Mr. Alicea is currently a Senior at Ramapo College of New Jersey and on track to earn his Bachelors in IT Management. As a Transgender man, he has navigated challenges throughout his life that have shaped his perspective. He has a passion for seeking to understand the inner workings of today’s world and is constantly fueled by the curiosity on how to make it all better. He believes that in the rapidly growing age of data, he has found a passion for analyzing raw data and translating it to meaningful information.
Ms. Dickerson joined the Legacy team in October 2024. She is currently the Supervisor of the Driver’s Education Program. Additionally, Ms. Dickerson is also an instructor providing a valuable service to several participants.
She comes to us with a wealth of transferrable skills and experience from her many years of working in Corporate America. She also has lifetime experience working with adults with intellectual disabilities.
Her dedication to the needs of her participants is unparalleled. Her passion and understanding of their needs in helping them achieve their goals has been the most rewarding of her career thus far.
Ms. Lipczyk joined the Legacy Empowerment Services team in April 2025. As the Executive Administrative Assistant, she supports the Chief Operating Officer, to help ensure smooth and efficient daily operations. In this role, she manages meetings, projects, documentation, and communications with precision and professionalism.
As the current CDS Administrator, Ms. Lipczyk, ensures that all state mandated training modules are completed in a timely manner. She is also responsible for updating and maintaining staff’s records in accordance to state mandates.
Mr. Stuckey serves as Legacy’s Junior Marketing Strategist. He is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he earned a degree in film animation. In his role, Mr. Stuckey brings a diverse skill set and creative perspective, supporting the marketing team through graphic design and visual content. His experience in editing and graphic design enhances Legacy’s ability to engage and expand its virtual audience.
Mr. Stuckey has interned and worked with private production teams and is well versed in the evolving social media landscape. He possesses strong technical proficiency and is fluent in a wide range of computer applications. In addition, he has extensive knowledge of gaming and streaming technologies, which further strengthens Legacy’s digital and online presence.
Drawing from his own personal experiences and challenges, Mr. Stuckey is deeply motivated to uplift and support individuals facing similar obstacles. He is enthusiastic about using his talents to contribute meaningfully to Legacy’s mission and to empower the community it serves.
As Legacy’s Culinary Instruction Intern, Ms. Quintana is responsible for assisting our lead Culinary Instructor during classes. Ms. Quintana also assists our Culinary team with new ideas for recipes for the class, and she has even provided her own recipes to use such as the Street Corn recipe. She is thrilled to assist others with learning culinary skills and to show them how to make healthy, creative, and tasty meals.
Ms Quintana is passionate about culinary arts and has goals to continue to pursue a career in the field. She is currently pursuing her GED in order to bring her closer to that goal.
