Carol Dvoor
President, Director
Carol Dvoor, Director of Harbor of Hope, is a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County, where she also raised her daughter. She began her career as a special education teacher, has worked with adolescents from various backgrounds, and served the community as a domestic violence advocate. She became director of Harbor of Hope, formerly known as Safe Harbor Child Access Centers, in 2017. She has a passion for helping others heal from trauma and understands that, while not everyone’s path to healing is the same, it can only happen with trust, connection, and a sense of community. Carol believes that every person deserves the opportunity to be seen, heard, and empowered on their path to stability and wholeness. Carol’s roots in this community run deep, and so does her commitment to helping others feel safe, supported, and seen.
Lisa M. Gomez
board chair
Lisa M. Gomez has been a supporter of Harbor for Hope, previously Safe Harbor Child Access Centers, for nearly a decade. In 2017, Lisa saw how after the tragic loss of a beloved high school student, Harbor of Hope opened its doors to offer support by providing a place for resources, recovery, and love. Lisa is a graduate of Hofstra University and Fordham University School of Law and was an attorney in private practice in New York City for almost 30 years before being called to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Employee Benefits Security at the U.S. Department of Labor, appointed by President Biden. In January of 2025, Lisa started the firm LMG Collaborative Consulting Solutions in Flemington NJ providing strategic advice and other services to stakeholders with professional concerns in employee benefits and protection, labor organizations, and access to mental health care. Lisa has lived in Hunterdon County for over twenty years with her spouse and three children.
Lynn Vuolde
Board Secretary
Lynn Vuolde is a devoted wife, mother of four, and long-time resident of Hunterdon County with a heartfelt passion for serving others. Her journey with Harbor of Hope began when her child with autism found support through the organization, a turning point that deepened her commitment to its mission. Lynn has held numerous leadership and fundraising roles in local schools and youth sports, reflecting her strong roots in volunteerism. She currently works in the Microbiology Lab at Hunterdon Medical Center. Guided by personal experience and compassion, Lynn works tirelessly to support individuals facing similar journeys.
Carol Vorhees Zak
Board Treasurer
Carolee Voorhees Zak, a 5th generation Hunterdon County resident, has served on this board for 6 years. She graduated from Hunterdon Central and several years later, returned to HCRHS support staff, and became Assistant Director of Support Staff. After 33 years on staff, Carolee retired and went to Flemington Furs, as their Director of Community Relations and then worked at the local Hallmark Store. Carolee’s husband, Joseph A. Zak. Sr., died 20 years ago and in November 2024 cancer also took the life of her precious daughter, Pamela Campbell. Carolee found that getting involved in something that matters to you, helps tremendously keep that crippling grief at bay and what Harbor of Hope provides is something that matters to her.
Sharon Ransavage
Board Member
Sharon Ransavage has been a resident of Hunterdon County for over 50 years. It is here that she and her husband, Paul, a retired high school science teacher, raised their three sons. Sharon has practiced law for 40 years, 6 of them as the first female Hunterdon County Prosecutor. Her experience as a lawyer in both the public and private sector taught her much about the needs of the community and the organizations helping to meet those needs with whom she frequently collaborated. Through her work as a family law attorney she came to know about the important work done by Harbor of Hope, formerly known as Safe Harbor Child Access Centers. She is honored to have been asked to serve as a member of the Board.
Brandon Arias
Board Member
Brandon is a lifelong Flemington resident with a strong commitment to serving and strengthening his community. As a member of the Borough Council and someone who grew up in a family-owned business, he understands the importance of compassion, collaboration, and giving back. These values guide his dedication to supporting individuals and families while helping build a stronger, more connected community.
Brandon is passionate about creating opportunities where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and supported. He believes that access to resources, community engagement, and inclusive programs can make a meaningful difference in people's lives. His commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of belonging reflects Harbor of Hope's mission of empowering individuals through connection, advocacy, and support.
Brian Varela
Board Member
Brian Varela is an entrepreneur, community leader, and first-generation American who is passionate about strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for individuals and families. Raised by Colombian immigrant parents in New Jersey, Brian's experiences shaped his belief in the importance of service, resilience, and ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need to succeed. As a successful business owner and dedicated community advocate, Brian has spent years bringing people together, building partnerships, and supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, opportunity, and civic engagement. His commitment to helping others aligns closely with Harbor of Hope's mission of providing advocacy, resources, and hope to those facing life's challenges. As a member of Harbor of Hope's Board of Directors, Brian is honored to support the organization's continued growth and impact. He is committed to helping expand access to programs and services that empower individuals, strengthen families, and build a more connected and compassionate community.