Jackie Ceonzo was inspired to create SNACK* in 2003, motivated by her role as a mother raising two sons- one with severe autism and one typically developing. With a vision to provide a place where both her children and others could thrive, she formulated a plan to establish a space welcoming of all individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds, to gather, learn, grow, and build connections. Driven by this commitment, Jackie evolved SNACK* into a lively and inviting space for kids, teens, and young adults, offering a diverse array of classes and opportunities. Jackie worked with a pediatrician, a disability advocate and a behavioral specialist to initially create SNACK*. She spent three years funding, developing, implementing and building the SNACK* organization to what we see today – growing from having served 6 people when SNACK’s doors first opened, to now serving over 250. Jackie is actively involved in SNACK’s administrative and programming decisions and is available on-site to meet with parents, caregivers, SNACK* attendees, outside therapists, etc. Jackie served as President of the Alumnae Association of The Marymount School of New York for over 10 years. She recently completed serving 20 Years as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Hawthorne Foundation, an agency that provides a continuum of care for individuals with developmental disabilities. Jackie received her BA in Economics from Villanova University, where she met her husband, Joe; their son, Andrew, is also a proud Villanova alum. Jackie’s business experience includes 16 years in the textile industry supplying major retailers and manufacturers. She had risen to the position of vice president, with responsibility for $75 million of annual sales, when her son, Joey was diagnosed.

A former competitive swimmer and water polo player, Rachael began her tenure at SNACK* as a swim instructor. Today, she plays a pivotal role as one of our Program Coordinators. Rachael supervises several key programs including SNACK* Swim, 21+, and After Hours, ensuring each participant experiences exceptional care and support. Her passion for aquatics and commitment to fostering a welcoming environment make her a valuable asset to our community.

Camilo Bedoya has been passionate about swimming since he started at the age of four. With an impressive career as a professional water polo player, Camilo had the honor of representing his national team, Colombia, in numerous competitions. Upon moving to New York, Camilo discovered a new passion for educating young children. For over 15 years, he has been dedicated to teaching swimming to special needs students, collaborating and learning from other professionals in the autism community. Camilo finds immense satisfaction in helping his students overcome obstacles and witnessing their eventual success. Camilo holds a degree in Accounting and Information Systems from Queens College. Additionally, he is a certified professional lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor. In his free time, Camilo enjoys exercising, listening to music, playing video games, engaging in art, hiking in nature, and visiting new cities.

Jeanne has over twenty-five years experience as a sales, marketing and business development executive, and consulting positions to bring new companies to the marketplace. She has worked with small to large Fortune 500 companies as well as advocacy, community-based and non-profit organizations. Jeanne has a proven track record in strategic planning and development, building relationships with key decision makers, establishing strategic partnerships and raising funds to support SNACK’s organizational needs and growth. Since joining SNACK* in 2006, she has been instrumental in helping to generate over $5 million dollars in fundraised revenue by developing and managing a variety of fundraising initiatives, enabling SNACK* to maintain and expand its programs to significantly increase the number of families it serves.

Over the past 2 years at SNACK*, Molly has built meaningful connections with SNACK* 21+ members, while learning the ins and outs of the organization. Drawing from her experiences as an ABA Care Coordinator, Camp Counselor, and caregiver for elders, she has developed a deep understanding of providing assistance to all individuals. Molly holds a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Indiana University, Bloomington. In her free time, Molly enjoys drawing, basketball, and podcasts.

Jada is a dedicated swim instructor and lifeguard with over 10 years of experience in aquatic safety and teaching, including extensive work with individuals with special needs. Known for her compassionate approach and ability to adapt teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles, she has made significant strides in promoting water safety and confidence among all swimmers.

Liz oversees daily activities, scheduling and staff management, and assists the children in social skill development as well as oversees various organization administrative responsibilities on a daily basis. In addition to her duties at SNACK*, she has worked for over twenty years in the field of developmental disabilities, nine of which were working as the Behavioral Specialist Trainer under the direct supervision of a PhD Behavioral Psychologist. Liz holds a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Hunter College.

With more than ten years of experience at SNACK*, Samantha is the weekend Snacktivities program coordinator. She also contributes with program and activity development by training members on general life skills, as well as facility management during program hours. Samantha also works one-on-one with 21+ programs.