The Ability Foundation of NJ Inc Board of Directors

Chair

Lisa Lontai serves as Mayor of Warren Township, New Jersey and brings over 30 years of experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner to her leadership. For the past 18 years, she has worked as a school nurse in the Warren Township School District, where she has worked closely special education students and their families and consistently advocated for their health, safety, and inclusion. 

Lisa has long been committed to serving her community. She has been actively involved in local volunteer efforts, including the Warren and Watchung Buddy Ball program, which creates inclusive recreational opportunities for children of all abilities. When she was approached in her role as Mayor to help establish a Field of Dreams in Warren, a recreational space thoughtfully designed to serve individuals with disabilities, she immediately recognized the importance of the project and committed her support. She understands how meaningful accessible spaces are for families and the lasting impact they can have on a community.

Lisa has been married for 32 years and is the proud mother of four children, all of whom have graduated from college. Her background in healthcare and her experience in public service continue to guide her work and her dedication to creating opportunities that promote a sense of belonging for all residents.

Vice Chair

Lisa Walters is a graduate of the University of Hartford, where she studied Business Communication. She has proudly called Warren, New Jersey home for the past 19 years alongside her husband Keith of 21 years, their daughter Alexa, a college sophomore, and their son Dylan, an eighth grader at Warren Middle School. She is known throughout the community as the volunteer who turns “impossible” into “we are doing this.”

From 2019 through 2025, Lisa held several key leadership roles with WBSI and WHBSA, serving as Head of Fundraising, Marketing Director, Snack Shack Manager, and leading the development of the spirit store and team uniforms. Her ability to mobilize families played a significant role in strengthening these programs and expanding their reach.

Following the pandemic, she revived the Warren Buddy Ball program in 2022, which began with just three players. Under her leadership, the league quickly regained momentum and is now a valued part of the township’s recreational community. In recognition of her extraordinary commitment, the township honored her as Volunteer of the Year.

For nine seasons, Lisa also served as a dedicated Team Mom for Watchung Hills Pop Warner. She joined The Ability Foundation because she believes every child deserves a buddy and a field without barriers. When she is not organizing volunteers or planning the next fundraiser, she can be found on the sidelines of a football or baseball field, proudly cheering on Warren’s teams.

Secretary

Mark Claxton is a graduate of Nyack College and brings 28 years of distinguished experience in the biotechnology sector, with a focus on oncology and Key Opinion Leader development. His professional career reflects a deep commitment to advancing meaningful initiatives.

As a resident of Warren Township, New Jersey for the past 23 years, Mark has dedicated himself to serving his community. He has held numerous leadership positions across local youth sports organizations, including president, vice president, commissioner, coach, board member, and volunteer. Since 2017, he has served as Acting President of WH NFL Flag Football, helping guide and grow the program for young athletes in the township.

In 2023, Mark was honored with the Good Scout Award in recognition of his outstanding service and contributions to the community. He is also an active member of the Warren Township Lions Club and served as its president in 2022.

Mark is deeply committed to supporting individuals with special needs. He actively participates in initiatives such as the Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge alongside his son, who is a Special Olympics New Jersey athlete. 

Treasurer

Pat Guerra graduated from New Jersey Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Management and has held executive leadership roles in both business and nonprofit organizations throughout his career.

For the past 20 years, Pat has served as Partner and General Manager of Bucket Supply and Equipment Parts, where he oversees operations, strategic planning, sales, and administration. His leadership reflects a strong command of long-term planning.

As President of the Beta Alpha Housing Corporation, a nonprofit organization, Pat led a volunteer team that raised $1 million toward the development of a $2.4 million student housing facility. He directed the sale of the organization’s historic brownstone, negotiated a 100-year land lease and mortgage and usage agreement with the university then supervised the design and completion of the new 24-bed residence.

Pat currently serves as Chairman of the Board for Watchung Hills Elks Lodge #885. In this role, he oversees budget development and execution, reviews investment performance to ensure responsible stewardship, and evaluates insurance coverage to safeguard the organization’s assets. Previously, as Treasurer, he modernized and streamlined financial processes to align with national organizational standards.

Pat also spearheaded the Lodge’s sponsorship of Warren’s Buddy Ball team, an effort that helped spark the vision that became The Ability Foundation of NJ Inc.

Board Member

Sarah Claxton is a graduate of Nyack College and has proudly called Warren, New Jersey home for the past 23 years. She has built a distinguished career as a paraprofessional in the Warren Township School District, where she was honored as a Governor’s Educator of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year in recognition of her dedication to students.

Sarah has long been deeply involved in the Warren community. For many years, she has volunteered in youth and high school athletics, contributing her time through coaching and fundraising. Since 2017, she has served as Cheer Commissioner for WH NFL Flag Football and Cheer Association, helping strengthen the program for young athletes and families.

She is also a strong advocate for individuals with special needs. Sarah actively participates in special needs initiatives and fundraising events, including the Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge, where she proudly supports her son Toby, a Special Olympics New Jersey athlete.