Championing Change for Tourette Syndrome
Join us in our mission to transform lives through understanding, support, and advocacy for those affected by Tourette Syndrome.
ABOUT US
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
At the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome, our mission is to ensure children and adults with Tourette Syndrome and associated disorders are empowered and accepted.
Our Vision
We envision a world where those with Tourette Syndrome and associated disorders are fully understood and accepted and where they feel inspired to live their best lives.
Core Values
Our core values include compassion, integrity, and collaboration. We believe in the power of education to drive change and the importance of research to advance understanding and treatment of Tourette Syndrome.
Commitment to Excellence
We are dedicated to excellence in all our endeavors, from providing top-notch resources and support to engaging in groundbreaking research initiatives. Our partnerships with institutions like Rutgers University exemplify our commitment to advancing knowledge and improving lives.
HONORING OUR FOUNDER
Our Values through Faith Rice
The Faith W. Rice Legacy Fund honors our founder and past executive director, Faith W. Rice, whose extraordinary vision and dedication built NJCTS from the ground up into the nation’s leading Tourette Syndrome organization. Under her leadership, NJCTS pioneered breakthrough research, trained thousands of professionals, and gave voice to countless families. This fund ensures her transformative legacy lives on.
Forward Thinking
An innovative approach to managing all areas of our organization.
Accepting
Creating a community where people with TS are accepted.
Inspiring
Empowering those with TS to self-advocate.
Transformative
Changing the lives of those affected by the disorder.
Holistic
Looking behind the TS and seeing the whole person.
Our Journey Through Time
Since its inception, the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome has been at the forefront of advocacy and support for individuals with Tourette Syndrome.
2004
NJCTS Founded
After years of working with TAA, Faith Rice founded the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome to provide comprehensive support and resources for those affected by Tourette Syndrome.
2008
Partnership with Rutgers University
In collaboration with Rutgers University, NJCTS launched a groundbreaking genetics research initiative to better understand the genetic components of Tourette Syndrome.
2012
Expansion of Educational Programs
NJCTS expanded its educational outreach, offering workshops and seminars to schools and healthcare professionals across New Jersey.
2016
Launch of Youth Advocacy Program
The Youth Advocacy Program was introduced to empower young individuals with Tourette Syndrome to become leaders and advocates in their communities.
2020
Virtual Support Initiatives
Amidst the global pandemic, NJCTS adapted by launching virtual support groups and webinars to continue providing essential services.
2024
Celebrating Two Decades of Impact
NJCTS marks its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of progress and dedication to the Tourette Syndrome community.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Our Leadership and Staff
Hilary Kruchowy
Executive Director
Santina Reichenbach
Assistant Executive Director
Brianna Burkert
Communications/Development Coordinator
Alina Lawas Osborn
Program Coordinator
Hilary Kruchowy
Executive Director
My favorite part of my role at NJCTS is creating opportunities for our families, friends, and community leaders to invest in our mission. I have seen firsthand the impact of our programs on our kids and parents and I want to make sure that we are able to continue, and even expand, our offerings to help everyone who wishes to participate.
Santina Reichenbach
Assistant Executive Director
I am honored to have been a part of NJCTS’ development from its grass roots all volunteer organization to the small but growing 10 employee organization it has become in my 25 year to date association. Having been an integral part of Faith’s team of professionals to achieve her vision and growth for this organization has been extremely rewarding.
Brianna Burkert
Communications/Development Coordinator
My favorite part of my job is knowing that what I do on the daily helps make a difference in the TS Community and beyond.
Alina Lawas Osborn
Program Coordinator
I love being able to create safe, non-judgmental spaces where people with Tourette are free to be their full selves.
Lisa Augliera
Youth Development Specialist
The best part of my job is seeing the incredible impact these kids make on others. I am humbled at their strength and bravery, and feel lucky that I get to do this work.
Claudia Lijo
Education Outreach Specialist
When I am asked where do I work and what do I do, I often explain that I work for a little but mighty non-profit organization called NJ Center for Tourette Syndrome located in Somerville, NJ but it never feels like “work”. To me, it’s not a job, it’s just personal.
Daryl Ball
Staff Accountant
It’s nice working for an organization that makes a difference in so many lives. I enjoy serving the TS Community and working with the families.
Lisa Augliera
Youth Development Specialist
Claudia Lijo
Education Outreach Specialist
Daryl Ball
Staff Accountant
Board of Directors
Meet the dedicated leaders guiding NJCTS with their expertise and vision, ensuring our mission to empower lives is fulfilled.
Andrew Hendry
Board Chairman
Dr. Tim Kowalski
Vice Chairman
Paul Romano
Board Treasurer
Steven Lindenbaum
Board Secretary
Michael Harris
Trustee
Tim Howard
Honorary Member
Tim Omaggio
Trustee
Stephanie Pendell
Trustee
Cat Porter
Trustee
Conrad Roncati
Trustee
Rebecca Spar, Esq.
Trustee
Tim Yingling
Trustee
Genetics Collaboration
Pioneering Research with Rutgers University
The collaboration between NJCTS and Rutgers University has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of Tourette Syndrome through genetic research. The Cell & DNA Repository, a cornerstone of this partnership, collects and analyzes genetic material from individuals with Tourette Syndrome and their families. This repository is instrumental in identifying genetic markers and potential therapeutic targets, contributing significantly to global research efforts. By fostering this collaboration, NJCTS and Rutgers University aim to unlock new insights into the causes and potential treatments for Tourette Syndrome, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected.
Through this partnership, NJCTS and Rutgers University have established a robust platform for scientific discovery, enabling researchers worldwide to access invaluable genetic data. This initiative not only enhances the understanding of Tourette Syndrome but also paves the way for innovative approaches to diagnosis and treatment. By supporting this research, NJCTS reaffirms its commitment to empowering individuals with Tourette Syndrome and advancing the scientific community’s knowledge of this complex disorder.