What We Do
The BABYLON CARES Project is a community-driven initiative focused on fostering collaboration among the villages and hamlets within the Town of Babylon. Our aim is to address current issues among the youth in our community with the goal of creating positive and necessary change. The mission of the coalition is to unite community members—including residents, parents, youth, business owners and organizations by providing opportunities for awareness, education and knowledge-sharing. Together we aim to prevent, among other things, underage drinking and substance misuse, not only among our youth but ultimately extending this impact to adults as well. The coalition is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where all citizens are encouraged to take collective responsibility for the well-being of the community, promoting a healthier, more supportive space for future generations.
Lori-Ann Novello, serves as the Executive Director of Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition, Inc., administering two grants of over 2 million in federal funding. She earned an MSW degree from Stonybrook University after obtaining a Bachelors’ in Health & Human Services from Empire State College and studied Chemical and Substance Abuse Counseling. Lori is a member of the National Association of Social Workers and currently serves on the steering committee of the Suicide Coalition of Long Island, is an elected Library Trustee, and a consultant for the federally funded Opioid Response Network (ORN).
Karina Bak, Karina Bak is the Epidemiologist for Lindy Cares/Town of Babylon Cares, specializing in data analysis, grant management, and evaluating coalition initiatives. With a Bachelor’s in Psychology & Sociology, a Master of Public Health, and certifications in community health work and social research, she brings over a decade of experience working with children to develop their skills. Karina combines her analytical expertise with a passion for community-building to translate complex data into accessible, actionable information that empowers community members and stakeholders to make informed decisions that enhance community well-being
Hello, I’m Lori-Anne Herman, and Lindenhurst is not just my hometown; it’s the backdrop of my life story. From growing up in this vibrant community to now raising my twin boys, aged 13, I’ve been intimately connected with Lindenhurst’s journey of change. With a rich background spanning two decades in management, customer service, and community engagement, I proudly wear the hat of a Project Coordinator. Through a blend of my professional acumen and personal relationships, I’m dedicated to orchestrating events that infuse joy and strengthen the bonds within our community. Come be a part of the unfolding chapters as we collectively shape Lindenhurst’s narrative.
Vincenza Damon is the Project Director at Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition, Inc., specializing in prevention education of drugs and alcohol among youth in our community. She earned a Bachelors in Psychology at Stony Brook University and a Master in Public Health from Hofstra University. Vincenza has a passion for dance, which led her on her path as a teacher from an early age. Her background in prevention education and advocacy allows her to raise awareness about the risks of substance abuse, and be a champion for those in need of a strong voice.
Kayla Johnson is the Project Coordinator at the Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition, Inc. She collaborates with school leaders to develop student training programs and leads community workshops that promote awareness and skill-building. Kayla also manages public awareness campaigns and organizes engaging events that educate and unite the local community. She is passionate about practicing yoga.
