Serving Morris, Passaic, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Union & Sussex Counties
201.919.3211
Meet the Staff
Ted K. Mayer, CEO
My career has spanned over 35 years in Human Services. As owner and operator of a regional wellness company, in 2016 I believed it was time for a change.
As an experienced business development specialist with quantitative results in Operations and Human development I was entrusted to grow a small local service provider seeking to expand their DDD services.
While the opportunity provided me with a solid understanding of what could be made available to families, it became apparent to me that the providers were satisfied with delivering the status quo.
CSN was born out of a desire to deliver meaningful person centered services to a clearly underserved group.
Word spread quickly, and Community Supports Network grew as a result of our ability to see beyond the status quo by ensuring that everyone we serve including our staff, live their best life.
Mary Estren
Chief Compliance Officer
Mary studied at William Paterson University and worked as a day program supervisor for over 10 years while overseeing the day-to-day operations in accordance with state guidelines.
Mary’s role at CSN started with the position of Direct Support Professional. Within a year she was promoted to the position of Training & Compliance Director. Mary’s important role is identifying different areas of risk in the organization and ensuring compliancy is met within DDD/State regulations through employee training and various audit trails.
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“I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives and helping our individuals develop their inner potential”.
"It doesn’t matter how slow we go as long as we are consistent.”
René Wharton
Director of Family Support Services
After attending school, René chose to work in the Human Services Field having held various support roles in a vast and diverse capacity ranging from a Behavioral Health Counselor to a Mental Health professional. After starting out as a Direct Support Professional in 2017, René transitioned through several administrative roles including Area Director.
René’s exceptional background, training and skill set led to her Regional Director position at Community Supports Network. Her passion, guidance and steadfast care for others is of paramount importance to her success as René works very closely with families and staff.
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"It takes someone special to teach someone special. Do not listen to those who say you can’t. Listen to your inner voice telling you that you can."
Michele Johnson
Director of Independent Living Services
After attending Centenary College and graduating with a bachelor’s in psychology, Michele worked in multiple group homes as a supervisor overseeing the day-to-day life of individuals to enable them to live as normal of a life as possible.
Michele brought her passion and love for her work to CSN where she began as a Direct Support Professional in 2017. Her skillset and hard work led to Michele’s promotion as Director of Training. With a strong background in Residential along with DDD/state regulations, Michele currently holds the position as the Director of Quality Assurance.
The important role Michele has is identifying the needs of individuals and putting forth the importance of their needs within the organization to better the quality of life for the individuals.
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“Make sure you love what you do; it makes life a lot easier.”
Success Story
We helped an individual move out of his family home and into his own apartment for the very first time. The family thought he wouldn’t adjust well due to never being on his own as his family did nearly everything for him. Despite doubts, he adjusted so well that his family wanted staff to bring him home every weekend because they missed him. As a team, everyone worked together establishing a new routine of going to program 3 days a week. When he came home, staff assisted him with chores, cooking simple meals at home, and completing his everyday hygiene. Staff also helped him integrate into the community by dining out, going to the library, the book store, shopping, and bowling to name a few. He is currently being serviced by CSN but no longer needs hands on services. Only verbal prompts and reminders are needed.
Rachel Sonsteby
Director of DDD Supported Employment Services
Rachel graduated from East Stroudsburg University where she majored in Rehabilitation & Human Services. After graduation, Rachel started her career as an Employment Specialist for an agency in Northeast Pennsylvania. Upon relocating to New Jersey, Rachel accepted a position with Community Supports Network where she worked as an Employment Specialist for over 2 years.
During the past several years, Rachel earned high praise for her efforts in career development and assessment protocols. In 2021, Rachel was promoted to her current role as Director of Employment Services. Rachel has become an indispensable member of CSN’s Employment Services Team which currently supports over 100 individuals who are competitively employed.
SE Program
General Services:
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Providing person-centered pre-placement, job coaching, and long-term follow-along services to DDD participants who are seeking or are currently competitively employed.
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We focus on finding the best-fit job for the individual.
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Accepting referrals in Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Morris, Hudson, Sussex counties.
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Offering Support Coordination & Family Educational Seminars for Supported Employment Services
Dog Treat Information:
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CSN launching our Volunteer Program making homemade dog treats called “Jack’s Booty” (like Pirate’s Booty)
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Baking, packaging, and donating homemade dog treats to provide individuals an opportunity to learn various skills in preparation for future employment.
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Skill training involves following directions, accepting feedback, punctuality, social/interpersonal skills.
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Clarke K. Mayer
Director of Operations
After graduating from William Paterson University, Clarke spent many years in the film and photography industry. His love of the arts has helped many clients fulfill their aspirations as he has worked both as a Direct Support and Employment Specialist during his career with CSN.
As a filmmaker, photographer and author Clarke oversees CSN’s social engagement and media outreach. Utilizing his applied science background, he is also responsible for monitoring the technology systems CSN uses in its day-to-day operations.
When Clarke is not working at CSN, he is writing a new novel, penning a screenplay, or hiking with his dog Pam. He is most proud of the help he has provided our clients in developing their skills across many disciplines including film and camera techniques, as well as writing and film editing.
"We're Here to Make a Difference in Your Life"
