About Us

Stacia is the President of Independence for Veterans, Inc. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Monmouth University. Stacia has authored two acclaimed children’s books, published numerous articles, has had her original recipes printed in several cook books and magazines, is a proud member of Rolling Thunder National Inc., and was the CEO of the award-winning doll manufacturer, Neva Dolls®️. Stacia is the widow of decorated Vietnam Veteran, Sergeant John E. McDonough, and has been volunteering with homeless veterans for 14 years prior to  launching “Independence for Veterans.” To honor her late, beloved husband she founded, “They Kept Us Safe, Let’s Keep Them Warm,” an annual Christmas, new clothing/toiletries/necessities drive benefiting homeless veterans residing at two transitional housing facilities in New Jersey. Throughout the years, Stacia has been honored with numerous awards for her profound devotion, and contributions to this most worthwhile cause. 

Antonella is the Assistant Vice President of Investors Bank, and Branch Manager of the Pluckemin, N.J. branch. She joined Investors Bank in  1986; she is responsible for the growth of her branch by developing and retaining business relationships. She maintains a strong presence with local community organizations and community events. Currently, she in involved with S.H.I.P, St Johns Soup Kitchen and The Literacy Foundation of Somerset County and various other non for profits.  Antonella has worked over 30 years at Investors Bank; she has experience in sales, operations and customers service. In 2010 she received a Community Service Award by her peers and in 2012 the bank awarded her with an Employee of year Award. Antonella received her banking certification through NJB. She also enjoys walking, biking, reading, traveling, and listening to music.

Robin serves as Municipal Recreation Director and Deputy Clerk/Registrar for the Township of Bedminster.  Formerly she served as a marketing, project and event manager with AT&T and Bohler Engineering; and is a graduate of University of Rhode Island. Robin is an active community volunteer who has worked with numerous non-profit organizations serving in various capacities including: The  Friends of the Jacobus Vanderveer House & Museum in Bedminster, Philadelphia University, Bernards High School, New Jersey Special Olympics, Raritan Headwaters (formerly Upper Raritan Watershed Association), Bedminster Charities Golf Classic, and Alpha Xi Delta Foundation. Robin resides in Bedminster with her husband William of 30  years, and has two grown children Emily and Devin who reside in Manhattan.

Mr Andrew DaPonte is a retired financial executive with  50 years experience in the brokerage industry. He was a general partner at Cowen & Company for 20 years and served on a  number of Boards, including as a Director on the Chicago Stock Exchange.  

Joseph is an attorney with Lowenstein Sandler in Roseland, New Jersey.  Mr. Romano holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Finance from Bentley University, a J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law, and is currently pursuing a Masters of Law in Taxation at New York University. Mr. Romano is licensed to practice in New Jersey and Florida. 

Louis  had a prolific profession in construction, and the global timber industry. He has spent a great deal of of time living abroad. His father was a decorated WWI veteran, his four maternal uncles served in the Pacific during WWII, and his late son-in-law served in Vietnam.  Louis has been active in the community championing the rights of under served veterans.

Mike was the Chief Executive Officer of the nonprofit, Community Hope, from 1999 until his retirement in 2018. Under Mike’s leadership, the agency grew tremendously, making it the leading  nonprofit in and around New Jersey serving veterans and their families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Having served in the military himself, Mike has been a huge advocate for veterans and developed numerous nationally recognized programs to serve veterans and their families. During Mike’s first year at Community Hope, the agency established the first supportive housing program in Morris County. Community Hope also has the distinction of hosting the largest fundraising events of the membership. He brought together all his  expertise in mental health care, addictions treatment and organizational  leadership, and his compassion to achieve an indelible impact on tens of thousands of New Jersey residents over the years. Mike also had a lasting influence during his many years on the NJAMHAA (New Jersey  Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies) Board, including time served as Board President. He recently received the NJAMHAA Lifetime Achievement Award in Community-based Serv

Traci currently serves as the Chapel Administrator at Grace Chapel of Bedminster and as the Personal Assistant to the Lead Pastor.  She formerly worked as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the President of Cathedral Consulting Group, Calyx Capital Advisors and The Center for Christian Business Ethics.  Traci also volunteers at Market Street Mission.  She resides in Flanders and has 2 children and 3 grandchildren.

Traci's son-in-law currently serves as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy.