Lou has been a leader in the social services community in New Jersey for over twenty- five years. During his years of leadership, Lou has created over 20 new programs and services for people with mental health and addiction challenges, vulnerable seniors and caregivers, military families and veterans, clergy and faith organizations, people with visual impairments, children and adolescents, families impacted by 9/11, and high- risk families and young people in urban, underserved areas.

Lou joins FCS from his most recent position as CEO of The Bridge, Inc. where he led community-based mental health and substance use services for at-risk children, families and adults in Essex and Union Counties. Lou has also been the CEO of the Mental Health Association of Morris County, as well as Associate Executive Director at Family Service of Morris County.

Lou has received numerous industry recognitions, including the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA) award in 2017 for ‘Unparalleled Leadership in Serving New Jersey’s Mental Health Community’. Other recognitions include a 2017 ‘New Jersey Joint Senate and Assembly Resolution’ honoring his service, a 2017 ‘Morris County Freeholder Resolution’ in his honor, the 2017 Morris County Consumer and Family Forum ‘Community Leadership Award’, and the 2016 ‘Exemplary Non- Profit Leader’ Award by the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. In 2014 Lou also received the NJAMHAA ‘Outstanding Partner in Advocacy for Behavioral Health’ Award. On May 16, 2017, a USA flag was flown over the USA capital in honor of his service to people with mental illness and their families.

Navarumsunk Auxiliary

In December of 1956, Olivia Dutcher, a longtime FCS Board member, invited a group of women to her home to discuss the formation of a Rumson-Fair Haven auxiliary to support the mission of the agency. The informal get-together on a chilly winter day in March 1957 evolved into The Navarumsunk Auxiliary. The group took its name from the Native American tribe that once inhabited the island. Since then, this group of active community volunteers has helped raise thousands of dollars and much-needed awareness of Family & Children’s Service programs and services.

The Auxiliary hosts several fundraisers throughout the year to support the agency. Its premier event, the Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show is held in May.

In the fall, Auxiliary holds its annual Navarumsunk Bridge Benefit, a duplicate bridge tournament and luncheon where Master Points are awarded. The tournament raises more than $5,000 for FCS programs and services annually.