Raymond Cristofoletti, CEO of Durand, has the overall responsibility for the strategic programming, management and financial operations of a dynamic, nonprofit dedicated to advancing quality services that enrich lives and build future supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ray is the steward of Durand’s committment to values of community inclusion and self direction with a strong sustainable environment of community based quality services and supports.. He communicates the vision and program objectives to internal and external program constituents and collaborates with a dynamic board in formulating policies, developing strategic plans, raising funds and achieving outstanding performance.

The exceptional leadership on the Board judiciously allocates and oversees resources in conjunction with staff to make decisions that are in the best interest of the organization and larger community.

SinceRay joined Durand in early 2000, he has personalized the organization, attracted and developed a high-level executive team, expanded programs and services, and developed a Foundation which has raised significant funds for Durand’s new home.

The Foundation has purchased 11 acres of land in Deptford and has completed the first two phases of the building campaign in which the campus entrance was completed and funded. Ray has additionally expanded the agency with new vocational day programs, group homes, a Thrift Shop and increased grant and foundation support.

He brings over 25 years of executive leadership experience developing and managing nonprofit organizations, Ray served for nearly a decade as the Executive Director of a nonprofit organization based in Kearny, NJ, that helps individuals born visually impaired or living with development disabilities to live more independently in the community.

An undergraduate of Fairfield University in CT, Ray holds a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from George Washington University, in Washington, D.C. and is completing a second Master’s Degree in Management from New York University. Ray’s continuing education includes attending Harvard University Programs on Leadership for Senior Executives and Programs on Negotiation.

His career began working at a New York City anti-poverty agency providing services to people with developmental disabilities in which Ray served in various capacities ranging from rehabilitation counseling and supervision of vocational programs, to evaluation of professional services, and school Principal for the exceptional child. He served as Clinical Director of the largest New Jersey mental health program, providing residential community based programs. Ray also worked at the Lighthouse International, formerly known as the New York Association for the Blind where he served as the Regional Director of the Lighthouse in Suffolk County, NY. His work in the field of special needs has led to Ray being named Trustee on Special Needs Trusts for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Ray was a member of the National Center of Vision and Aging and recognized by non-profits in Northern NJ as “Man of the Year.” He has made national presentations to non-profits and currently serves as Board member of the Food Bank of South Jersey, a nonprofit agency fighting hunger, where he is providing his expertise as a member of the Governance Committee.