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GOLF FUNDRAISER
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
DONATIONS
JOB OPENING
Meet the Team
Jaime Costello
Executive Director
Jaime serves as the Executive Director of the Hope Exists Foundation. After transitioning from a career in the hospitality industry, Jaime began working for former Sheriff Eric Scheffler as his confidential aide. In this role, she supervised grant-related programming and staff, including Hope One Atlantic County, while closely collaborating with the Hope Exists Foundation to support the Atlantic County Sheriff's Office. Upon joining the Foundation full-time, Jaime quickly advanced to her current position. Known for her organizational skills and compassionate approach, Jaime ensures the Foundation's programs run smoothly and effectively, with a strong commitment to supporting individuals in recovery. Outside of work, Jaime is dedicated to her family and enjoys gardening, wildlife, and nature.
Tracy Mazur
Director of Advocacy
Tracy Mazur brings an extensive background in administration, organization, and teamwork to our foundation. With over 10 years of experience running her own successful personal training business, she exemplifies entrepreneurial drive and a commitment to helping others achieve their goals. Tracy, a mother of three grown children and married for 24 years, deeply values family and community. As a dedicated advocate and supporter of mental health and substance use treatment programs, she is elated to work with the Hope Exists Foundation to make a positive impact in these critical areas.
Zaharias Caracostantakis "Zack"
Director Community Care Initiative
Veteran Peer Coach
​Zack is the Director of the Community Care Initiative, which runs the foundation's three monthly food distributions. He is also a veteran peer coach with our Veterans Outreach program. With over 12 years of experience, he has helped individuals recover from substance use and provides crucial support to Veterans. Zack is a father of two and has been married for ten years. Zack is a dedicated community member who leads a weekly recovery group focused on accountability and spiritual growth, guided by the principle: "Do unto others as you would want them to do to you."
Steve McGee
Director of Veteran's Outreach
Steve, a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran, is dedicated to serving those who have served our country. As the Director of Veteran Outreach for Hope Exists Foundation Inc., he focuses on helping Veterans in need by connecting them with essential services and resources. When he's not advocating for Veterans, Steve enjoys instructing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, staying active at the gym, and spending cherished time with his three sons, who inspire him daily.
E.J. Nistico
Veteran Peer Coach
Tech Support
EJ was born, raised, and lived in Atlantic City for 35 years. He is well known in the community, having worked behind the counter for 17 years at the White House Sub Shop in Atlantic City. As a 20+ year veteran Law Enforcement Officer of the Atlantic City Police Department, he brings years of community experience, a strong foundation in emotional intelligence, technical skills, and training to the foundation as a Veteran Peer Coach. He currently holds , an FAA Drone Pilot license, an FCC Radio Communications license and a NJ State Real Estate license.
Maria Hankins
Director of Outreach
CPRS, CMI, CHW
​Maria Hankins, Outreach Director at the Hope Exists Foundation, brings nearly a decade of experience in substance use and mental health. Certified as a Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), Community Health Worker (CHW), and Medical Interpreter (CMI), she offers compassionate support, especially to the Spanish-speaking community. Outside work, Maria enjoys the beach, values her role as a mother to three children, and volunteers with Angels in Motion, reflecting her dedication to community support.
Susan Long
Director GBHI Grant
​ LSW,LCADC,CTP,DRCC,CYT
Susan holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in social work from Rutgers University and is dually licensed in New Jersey as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LCADC). She is also a certified trauma professional and disaster relief crisis counselor. Susan is a person in long-term recovery with lived experience in substance use, homelessness, and mental health challenges. She lives in Northfield, NJ, with her husband David, and their cats. In her free time, Susan is dedicated to volunteering for Angels in Motion and Adelaide's Place.
Lou Panico
Peer Support Recovery Specialist
Lou Panico is a Peer Recovery Specialist for our foundation. Passionate about making a difference, Lou is focused on creating positive change in individuals and communities. With a bachelor's degree in history from Stockton University, Lou has gained valuable experience working in short-term treatment, detox, PHP treatment, and sober living communities. He is currently working towards his CPRS and CADC certifications. Lou lives in Linwood, NJ, with his wife and two children. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Brianna Hoffman
BSW
Peer Recovery Specialist
Bri is a Recovery Specialist and Social Worker for the Hope Exists Foundation's AC Project, dedicated to helping those in need in Atlantic City. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Stockton University and is passionate about helping others. Bri utilizes both her education and personal experience to demonstrate kindness, patience, and empathy towards her clients. Understanding that each person has unique goals, she works closely with her clients to help them achieve their objectives. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering, writing music, and spending time with friends.
Vinnie Kirkland
Peer Recovery Specialist
Vinnie Kirkland has dedicated his career to the field of recovery services since 2004. Beginning as a counselor in training at IHD (now John Brooks Recovery Center) in Atlantic City, NJ, he has worked with various agencies across the county. Vinnie specializes in supporting ex-offenders struggling with substance use, offering treatment, education, and job readiness training. As a person in recovery, Vinnie brings personal experience to his work, focusing on helping men and women transition from “street life” to “straight life” and achieve productive, fulfilling lives.