Majors Lolita & Richard Sanchez
Kroc Center Administrators/Pastors 

Majors Richard and Lolita Sanchez were commissioned as Salvation Army officers in 1999. Since that time, they have served in eight appointments across the Eastern Territory.

Following graduation, they began their first appointment in Dover, New Jersey, where they transitioned a declining English-speaking corps into a bilingual congregation while simultaneously learning Spanish themselves. With family roots in Puerto Rico, they understood both the cultural nuances and the practical challenges of bridging communities. Early in ministry, they learned a foundational lesson: calling often stretches beyond personal capacity, and provision meets obedience.

Over the years, the Majors have served as administrators and pastors in Dover, NJ; Dunkirk, NY; Waltham, MA; Riverhead, NY; East Northport, NY; and Salem, MA, in addition to two years at Territorial Headquarters in West Nyack, NY. They now serve as Kroc Administrators in Camden, New Jersey.

In 2017, Major Lolita returned to school to complete the bachelor’s degree she began after high school, fulfilling a lifelong goal. She earned her degree in Ministry Management from Asbury University. Her strengths in organization, planning, and follow-through have supported effective budget management, strategic event coordination, and operational consistency across each appointment.

As ordained ministers serving diverse cultures, generations, and communities, the Majors have supported and developed numerous outreach initiatives, including food distribution programs, community meal services, emergency disaster response, seasonal camps, educational enrichment programs, and financial assistance services.

Major Richard holds a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. His academic training, combined with experience in a large international organization, informs his approach to leadership, performance, motivation, and organizational health. He integrates research and practical application to strengthen both mission outcomes and workplace culture.

Together, they remain committed to faithful service and look forward to continuing that work in Camden through leadership, stewardship, and community engagement.

Lieutenants Elias & Jennifer Pizzirusso
Kroc Center Corps Officers/Pastors 

Lieutenant Elias Pizzirusso recently graduated from The Salvation Army College for Officer Training in Suffern, NY and even though this is his first appointment as an officer, he has lived and worked with The Salvation Army for most of his life. Lieutenant Elias is originally from Argentina and there he worked for The Salvation Army in different areas. He has worked in Senior Nursing Homes, in the Youth Department, and in different Corps in Argentina and the United States. One of his most recent positions was as Corps Ministry Assistant at the Bedford Temple Corps in Brooklyn, NY. Lieutenant Elias enjoys public speaking and getting to know different people and cultures. Being from Argentina, he speaks both Spanish and English fluently. He studied Public Relations in college and most enjoys uniquely and effectively showing others who God is. Communication is very important to him and ensuring that people know what God has done in his life is one of his greatest desires. He loves trying new things and hearing people’s stories. Lieutenants Pizzirusso were married in 2017 and have lived and served in both Argentina and the United States since then.

Lieutenant Jennifer Pizzirusso is originally from Milford, Pennsylvania and has attended The Salvation Army with her family all her life. She recently graduated from The Salvation Army College for Officer Training in Suffern, NY. Lieutenant Jennifer previously worked at The Salvation Army’s Star Lake Camp for eight summers in various roles working with children. She also worked as a secretary and translator for The Salvation Army South America East Territory in Argentina for almost 5 years. Most recently, Lieutenant Jennifer worked as a Corps Ministry Assistant at the Bedford Temple Corps in Brooklyn, NY. Lieutenant Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts in both Spanish and Political Science from Wheaton College (IL) and a Master of Science in Legal and Financial Translation (Spanish-English) from New York University School of Professional Studies. She speaks both Spanish and English fluently. She loves children and youth ministry and is passionate about working with other cultures. Lieutenants Pizzirusso were married in 2017 and have lived and served in both Argentina and the United States since then.

Benjamin Ovadia
Community Resource & Development (CRD) Director

Ben joined The Salvation Army – Camden team in 2012 as part of the capital campaign to fund The Salvation Army Camden Kroc Center. As CRD Director, he is responsible for philanthropic fund development, strategic relationship development, and external messaging. Ben holds a Bachelor of Science degree from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a Masters of Business Administration degree from Rutgers Business School. Since his youth, he has found great meaning in helping communities, families and people. For nearly 25 years, Ben has called South Jersey home and has worked in Camden for nearly a decade and a half, collaborating with hundreds of stakeholders. He has presented at both national and statewide conferences. Ben is also a published co-author (with his wife) having chronicled road-warrior travel with his family, seeing every U.S. State.

Linda Davis
Program Director

Her passion for community and youth programming is evident in her 25+ years working for the Burlington and Mt. Laurel YMCA as Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, Water Exercise Instructor, Aquatics Director, and Executive Director! Linda has also served as Manager of The Exercise Coach and as the Camden Kroc Center's Aquatic Manager focusing on member engagement. She strives to create a safe space for youth, teens, and families. She graduated from Ohio University as a Management and Personnel major. 

Latesha Beasley
Business & Facilities Director

Latesha D. Beasley serves as the Business and Facilities Director at The Salvation Army Camden Kroc Center. She leads human resources, finance, facilities, membership, rentals, and the manager‑on‑duty program here at the Kroc. Latesha blends lived experience with strategic insight, bringing a human‑centered approach to operations, talent development, and strategic planning. Latesha loves helping others discover their strengths and feels grateful to be part of that journey every day. She lives in South Jersey with her husband and two children.

David Bounds
People Manager

David Bounds is an experienced Human Resources professional with over a decade of expertise in driving strategic HR initiatives within the healthcare and human services sectors. In the spring of 2025, he joined The Salvation Army Camden Kroc Center as the People Manager, where he oversees recruitment, HR systems, performance management, employee development, relations, compliance, engagement, and training.

Prior to this role, David served as the Human Resources Manager at Always Best Care Senior Services in Philadelphia. There, he led a team responsible for comprehensive HR functions, including employee relations, performance management, compliance, and workforce planning. Known for fostering high-performance cultures, David collaborated with leadership to enhance work relationships, boost morale, and improve retention.

David is a third-generation Temple University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, specializing in Advertising & Public Relations. He is a dedicated advocate for equity and professional development and actively participates in organizations such as Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Philadelphia SHRM, and Tri-State HRMA. David is also a lifelong Philadelphia Eagles fan, cherishing memories of going to games with his grandfather, father and brothers that go back as far as Veterans Stadium and Kelly-green jerseys.

Dawn M. Garlic
Volunteer Services Manager 

Dawn Maria Garlic holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with a certificate in Criminology from Rutgers University - Livingston College. Dawn  has over 30 years’ experience in the non-profit sector to include Volunteer Management and Youth Development.  Since 2014, Dawn has held the position of Volunteer Services Manager at The Salvation Army Kroc Center. In 2016, she was a conference presenter on Volunteer Management at The Salvation Army Kroc Conference in San Diego, California.

In 2018, Dawn was recognized by the Camden County Police Department for Dedication and Commitment to Project Guardian, a program to instill positive change in at-risk youth and help them avoid making the wrong choices. Currently, Dawn serves on the Board of Trustees for the Boys & Girls Club of Camden and was their 2020 Volunteer of the Year.  

Asante Gonzalez
Social Services Manager 

Asante Gonzalez is a dedicated social services professional with a Bachelor's degree in Human Services from Rowan University. With over a decade of hands-on experience serving the Camden community including working in case management and as a Family Advocate for Acelero Learning serving children and families, she has always been deeply involved in her hometown community. At the Camden Kroc Center, Asante oversees the operations of the Kroc Marketplace Food Pantry, Mobile Food Pantry, and the Pathway of Hope Program. Beyond her professional life, Asante enjoys reading and seeking out unforgettable experiences with her friends and family. 

Cheli Kramer
Fitness & Recreation Manager

I’ve been a proud member of the Kroc Center team for over nine years, beginning my journey as a Fitness Specialist where my passion for health and wellness truly took root. I soon transitioned into a supervisory role, developing and leading fitness classes, conducting numerous personal training sessions, and facilitating Exero training programs. Most recently, I’ve stepped into the role of Manager, overseeing both Fitness and Recreation programming—a new and exciting opportunity that continues to fuel my dedication to helping others live healthier lives.

I’m deeply passionate about fitness, nutrition, and supporting others in their pursuit of a balanced lifestyle. As an avid runner, I love training, racing, and always pushing toward new goals. Outside of work, I cherish time with my granddaughter, who brings so much joy to my life.

Kaprena Morris
Family & Youth Development Manager

With over two decades of dedicated service to children and youth, I’ve cultivated a career grounded in compassion, leadership, and faith. My journey began with a decade of leading afterschool, teens, and summer enrichment programs as a Youth Program Director, followed by a transition into the role of Assistant Director. Most recently, I’ve spent the past three years working closely with children who have experienced trauma—an experience that has profoundly strengthened my commitment to fostering resilience and hope.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Strayer University and a master’s degree in early childhood and special education from Grand Canyon University. These academic foundations have empowered me to lead with both strategic insight and genuine care.

Currently, I serve as the Family and Youth Development Manager at the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Camden, NJ—a role that I truly cherish and that brings me deep fulfillment. The children I work with inspire me daily, and I find great joy in supporting their growth, learning, and discovery. It is a blessing to share the love of Jesus with them as they navigate their unique paths.

Outside of my professional life, I’m grateful for the unwavering support of my husband, our three amazing sons, and our beautiful granddaughter, who fills our lives with joy.

Roman Brooks
Aquatics Manager

Roman has been with the Camden Kroc Center since 2022. He has over 10 years of experience in aquatics and has a Bachelors Degree in Political Science from The College of New Jersey and a Juris Doctorate from Rutgers University Camden.

Norman Reed
Manager On Duty

I love my job at The Salvation Army because it allows me to make a real difference in people's lives. Every day, I have the opportunity to help those in need, whether through providing essential resources, offering support, or simply being there for someone who needs encouragement. The organization's mission of serving others aligns with my values, and I find fulfillment in knowing that my work contributes to a greater purpose. Plus, the sense of community and teamwork among my colleagues makes it a truly rewarding experience.