Serving Northern New Jersey Since 2014

Bonnie is a tireless, passionate advocate for people who have been incarcerated and need help and guidance with reentering their communities.  She has been involved in re-entry since volunteering at the Bergen County Jail, teaching job readiness skills in the 1990s. She was President and owner of Placement Professionals and two Norrell Staffing offices. She served three years as President of the New Jersey Staffing Association. For more than 20 years, Bonnie has been an instructor for the Society of Human Resources.  She founded Transition Professionals in 2014 as a 501(c)3 not for profit and has built a robust, client-driven organization of volunteers and college interns. Currently, she is a member of the Association of Re-Entry Professionals, Criminal Justice Specialists, and the New Jersey Advocacy Network. Bonnie has a BS in Business and a Paralegal Certification from Fairleigh Dickinson University, as well as numerous Human Resource industry certifications. In 2017, Bonnie was the recipient of the $50,000 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award for “her passion to improve the lives of individuals transition from incarceration back into society”. In 2019, Bonnie was awarded the Celia Weisman Award from the Bergen County Human Services Advisory County.  

Elvia is an NYU Master's Program graduate and NJ licensed social worker. Helping others brings joy to her life, and advocating for the most vulnerable, invisible and voiceless communities is her calling. Elvia is passionate about community service and advocacy. She has experience working with diverse populations, including older adults, minorities, formerly incarcerated, and homeless individuals. Using a client-centered approach, she strives to offer clients the opportunity to explore their complex and unique stories in a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment while focusing on attainable goals.

Michelle has been with Transition Professionals since our conception and remains the hub in our wheel.  She is responsible for the "voice" that people hear when they call and the friendly face they see when they come to our office.  She manages our files, accounting and calendar.

Tiffany is a graduate of the Ramapo College Advanced Standing Master's in Social Work Program, passionate about serving the underserved in urban and suburban communities.  Her commitment to serve and advocate for people who have been impacted by the criminal justice and carceral system as well as those experiencing homelessness is fueled by her belief in each person's deep value and unique story. She cares about mobilizing and encouraging indviduals and communities using person-centered, evidence-based, and holistic approaches, and hopes to empower those she meets to thrive and walk in dignity. 

Hannah grew up in New Jersey and is a graduate of Montclair State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She has been volunteering for many years and plans to get her master’s in social work. Hannah is the Case Manager for the new Job Opportunities for Building Success Program, working closely with individuals who need training and placement upon release. She is excited to be able to help others find a fitting career and fulfill their potential. 

Rosalia began her journey with Transition Professionals in 2021 as an intern while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Social Work. Today, she holds her degree and serves as the Job Developer for the JOBS program, where her role is helping clients secure employment. Her work focuses on canvassing employers who are open to second-chance hiring and navigating the complexities of hiring processes for justice-involved individuals, with a special emphasis on advocating on behalf of our clients with employer background checks.

Emily graduated from Fairleigh Dickenson University with a master’s degree in forensic psychology. At FDU, she learned the importance of addressing individuals’ mental health concerns, especially within the forensic population. She recognizes the stigma that those who have been previously incarcerated face and is dedicated to creating an accepting and supportive environment for our clients. As a case manager, she is devoted to helping clients find their strengths, overcome challenges, and move toward a bright future.

Letia Dash is a United States Navy veteran and a graduate student at Rutgers University's School of Social Work. In her role as a case manager with NJ L.E.A.D., she assists individuals who have been released from a New Jersey state prison within the past seven years. Letia provides community-based reentry services, focusing on equipping formerly incarcerated individuals with the tools they need for success and goal attainment. Her dedication lies in empowering clients to achieve their goals and embark on a new, positive path for their future.

Zaria Berry is a recent graduate of Cedar Crest College where she obtained her master's degree in Crime Science. In her role as a Re-entry Case Manager with the NJ L.E.A.D. she is able to provide critical foundational support for those who need assistance with integrating back into the community. These services include but are not limited to needs for mental health assistance, physical health, shelter, employment referrals and a wide variety of basic needs for the clientele. Her passion lies with helping clients achieve their goals and have new positive experiences as well as assisting in lowering the statistic of recidivism in the State of New Jersey.