Executive Director
Tracey Scherrer
“People often don’t believe me when I speak about how many youth experience homelessness and housing instability on their own. This issue often goes under the radar, not spoken about and the support is almost non-existent. For years I have worked, advocating for unaccompanied youth in the city of Lynn. The Haven Project is really the only organization in this area solely dedicated to supporting and empowering homeless young adults. The work that this agency does has changed the lives of so many for the better. I am so excited to be a part of that change.”
Tracey is a lifelong resident of Lynn and a graduate of Lynn Classical. She has a BS in psychology from Suffolk University and an MS in mental health counseling and psychological services from Salem State University. Tracey has a background in the fields of mental health, education, and housing. She has experience in providing mental health counseling, direct care with homeless populations, grant writing and grant management. Tracey is the chair of the Youth Subcommittee for the Lynn Continuum of Care, collaborating with other agencies in the area with the goal of removing barriers for homeless populations.
Director of Client Services
Karina Mendoza-Andujar
“Something I have quickly learned since joining The Haven Project is the true definition to dedication. Everyone at The Haven Project does their best to ensure all client’s needs are met despite any obstacles that may arise. Which we all know in this field can be often, but it doesn’t stop the team we have. We really do our best to make sure each client is treated as individual, empowered, and encouraged to be their best self. I am truly excited to be able to help.”
Originally from Chelsea, MA, Karina has an extensive background working to support youth and young adults in the greater Boston area. Prior to joining The Haven Project team, Karina worked to advocate for young mothers enrolled in a Teen Parenting Program. Over the span of 6 years, Karina impressively ascended from her role as a Family Advocate to the Program Director. She is excited to use her management expertise, background in trauma informed care, and her local connections to oversee programming and programming staff. Karina holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University.
Development Director
Jamie Ayer
“Working with The Haven Project Staff who are so dedicated, determined, and optimistic about helping our young clients is inspiring. I am thrilled to be here!”
Jamie’s work as a lead fundraiser includes grant writing, event planning, and strategizing for all agency fundraising. She has spent the last 10 years working in a variety of roles related to addressing poverty and vulnerable populations. She is excited to bring her experience to The Haven Project to help young adults find safety, support, and security. Jamie holds a B.A. in Sociology.
Social Enterprise Manager
Fredy Hincapie
“The Haven Project has offered me the tools, commitment, and passion to impact individuals and the community. Our young adults have great potential to succeed and I am grateful to be a piece of their life that propels that.”
Fredy migrated from Colombia in 2003 and has been a Lynn resident ever since. He graduated from Lynn Classical High School and is currently finishing his degree in Business at Salem State University. Fredy manages the social enterprise, Land of a Thousand Hills Café, and oversees the Job-Training Program.
lynncafemanager@drinkcoffeedogood.com
Lead Case Manager
Gary Rivas
“Everyday we deal with obstacles. Obstacles that may seem unbeatable, but if we surround ourselves with people who want to help us, people who will push us to be our best self, then you can overcome what feels insurmountable. The Haven Project team consist of these types of people; people who will do their best to help you succeed.”
Gary works directly as the first point of contact for clients in the Drop-in Centers; he helps lead the case management team and facilitates the daily Drop-in Center operations. His background is in psychology and has 18 years of management experience in the human service field. Among many qualifications, Gary is bilingual, a Driver Education Instructor, and a certified Crisis Prevention Instructor.
Client Engagement Lead
Ramey Ferrell
“One of the things I really like about the Haven Project is how we, as case managers, never give up. We are flexible with our clients; if they miss a meeting, we will make it work tomorrow. We have high expectations for our clients. Yes, we are there to support them, but there is a shared understanding that we will work together to make sure the work that needs to happen, happens.”
Ramey has a B.A. in Sociology and M.A. in Theology. At the Haven Project, he serves as our Client Engagement Lead, focusing on outreach, job coaching, and case management. His language skills, his passion for social justice and tackling systemic issues, and his experience working in Lynn make him a perfect fit for the job! He is grateful to be given the opportunity of planting roots in Lynn where he can work with us to end the cycle of poverty.
Case Manager
Angelica Perez
“Being able to transform someone’s life at a critical point is as meaningful as it gets.”
Angelica was born in Dominican Republic and migrated to the U.S. in 2017. She attended North Shore Community College and graduated in May 2019 with an Associates in Criminal Justice. She then attended Salem State University and completed her B.S. in Criminal Justice and Minor in Psychology and Legal Studies in 2020. At the Haven Project, Angelica is in charge of helping clients create individualized plans to gain stability. Her passion to work in the social services field doing meaningful work with youth and her ability to connect with clients and speak Spanish make her an excellent addition to our team.
Case Manager
Nixon Etienne
“Young adults face a variety of day to day challenges. Obstacles should stretch and grow us but not stifle us into despair. I believe, an extra hand is all we need to achieve and reach our maximum potential. With the Haven Project, young adults can be vulnerable and receive the help that they need.”
Nixon was born in Brooklyn, New York, and moved to Massachusetts at a young age. He attended Bay State College to earn a degree in Entertainment Management before transitioning to Central State University to earn a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Nixon has been a friend to The Haven Project for many years, volunteering and helping with client workshops. He currently supports the team through case management and assisting with client intakes. Nixon is bilingual, and is fluent in both English and Haitian Creole, which is a huge asset to our team. Nixon is grateful for the Haven Project and he is proud to support an agency that changes lives every day.
