MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL TEAM
Committed to the Cause, Making Things Happen!!
Coming together from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, our skilled team is the backbone of
GIVE 2 THOSE.org
Their ideas help shape the direction and mission of our organization as it continues to develop. Read on to learn more about some of our incredible team members.
The Mid-Atlantic chapter was created to help support Veterans, First Responders and their families in the following states;
New York; New Jersey; Pennsylvania; Delaware; Maryland; Washington, D.C. Virginia; West Virginia.
If you are interested in getting involved or being apart of the Mid-Atlantic Team please contact the Mid-Atlantic chapter president.
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PATRICK TERNYILA
Executive Director
Mid- Atlantic Chapter
I didn’t cross paths with Give2Those until around April 2018; it was ahead of the Stride & Ride when my wife’s cousin’s husband reached out asking for a sponsor for T-shirts for the event. It took some time before I found out what the Stride & Ride was all about. I’ve always had the utmost respect for our military and veterans, so I quickly pulled together a catered lunch at a local American Legion for the Stride & Ride to hit along their route in October. It was that day that I was able to hear Heather speak to the real issue at hand. When I heard how many veterans we are losing every day to the invisible wounds of war, I was in shock. I had to do something more. I saw the burden on Heather of managing the New Jersey and New York areas during the Stride & Ride, and I heard the stories of local families and the struggles they go through after losing their loved ones to this epidemic. After some long conversations with Heather, we decided I would take the lead on heading the newly formed Mid-Atlantic Chapter of Give2Those.
I was born and raised in New Jersey, and I am proud to do my part in serving the heroes that have protected me my whole life. First Responders, Active Military, and Veterans are our modern day Superheroes; when there is a problem, they run towards it while most of us would run away. I am honored to lead this new chapter and do my part in providing our heroes help when they need it the most and honoring all the lives we have lost. Together as a community, we can make a difference and put an end to 22 a day.
ALANE LAVELLE
Executive Secretary
Mid- Atlantic Chapter
Hi my name is Alane Lavelle. I was born and raised in the New York / New Jersey area. Since I can remember I have tried in many ways to honor the members of my family who have served in the military and first responders but could never really figure out a way to completely ‘give back’. Then September 11, 2001 occurred and my deep love of our country and those who keep us safe every day took on new meaning. I’ve been searching for some time to find an organization that I can help give back to our military and first responders as well as their families while bringing awareness their needs especially the invisible wounds of war, both foreign and domestic. We need fight for awareness and get these brave men & women the help they need and deserve. I want to honor all who serve and have served. To honor my family members who served and continue to serve. I carry Sgt. Michael Ingram Jr., & Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan and their families who both served our country & paid the ultimate sacrifice
DANIELLE TERNYILA
Media Director
Mid-Atlantic Chapter
I’m one of the last generations that can remember the attacks on 9/11. I was in first grade at the time, but I still remember the exact day. I’ve heard many different stories throughout my life from friends, family, and others of lives they lost on that day and how they were affected by this tragic event. I will never forget that day, but I also will never forget all of our military men and women that sacrifice their lives for our country. My father raised me to have the most respect for our veterans, active military, and first responders, so when he first introduced me to Give2Those and the Stride & Ride Relay, I wanted to be involved. I wanted to do my part to show my support for these heroes, and make sure that every single one of them is remembered and honored as they should be. When I heard the statistics for veteran suicide, I knew I had to be involved. I have always been an advocate for mental health, but to hear how much the heroes of this country are truly suffering without the support they need, I am honored to be a part of this organization and to do my part in getting them the help that they need when they need it the most.
MELISSA CONIGLIONE
Lead Coordinator
- Tricky Tray-
Mid-Atlantic Chapter
I was about 22 years old on September 11, 2001. I worked in downtown NYC and happened to be on the waterfront of Jersey city that morning. I had a front seat view of the planes entering the towers and burning to dust. A Jersey City fireman noticed me and immediately brought me to safety at his home; I was young and terrified, but this brave fireman and his family took me, a stranger, into their home with open arms. That day will be branded into my memory forever, the lives that were lost and how the first responders, military and the entire community came together and helped. When my best friend's niece told me about Give2Those and its purpose, I knew I needed to be involved. I wanted of give back and show my appreciation for all the heroes who put their lives at risk for us that day and every day. These men and women should have all the support they need, and I am honored to be a part of a great organization whose purpose is to provide them with the support they deserve.