Listening Is Prevention: What Happens When People Are Heard Before Crisis and The Simple Strategy Many Miss
June 27, 2026
At Caring Contact, human connection is at the heart of everything we do. Through compassionate listening, emotional support, and community care, we help ensure that no one has to face life’s most difficult moments alone.
We are proud to introduce our 2026–2027 Board of Trustees, a dedicated group of leaders committed to strengthening mental health support and expanding access to compassionate care throughout Central and Northern New Jersey.
Our board represents a powerful blend of expertise and empathy, spanning healthcare, education, finance, law, technology, communications, and community advocacy. Many serve directly as volunteer listeners on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, while others bring strategic leadership that helps Caring Contact grow responsibly and sustainably.
The impact of compassionate listening is felt every day. Callers share that being heard helped them feel less alone, less invisible, and more hopeful.
“When I started the call my head felt terrible and now it feels better because I was able to get this all out.” – Caller in his 40’s facing housing instability
Volunteer LIsteners describe the experience as life-changing, often noting that even after difficult conversations, they leave their shifts feeling lighter, grateful, and deeply connected to the people they serve.
“It’s the greatest gift a person can give to another. To be with them without trying to change them. To listen with empathy helps others feel less alone. To not be judged but to be accepted for feeling whatever one is feeling. It’s uncommon for people to be able to say what they need to say and have someone listen without judging them. Again, such a gift.”— Caring Contact Lifeline Listener
This work is guided by strong stewardship and transparency. Caring Contact is proud to hold the Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency, and 85 cents of every dollar donated directly supports programs and services that save lives through connection.
We are deeply grateful to our board members, volunteers, donors, and community partners who make this mission possible. Together, we are strengthening connections, expanding support, and ensuring that when someone reaches out, they are met with compassion, dignity, and hope.
Executive Board Leadership
Shayla Harris, President
Shayla Harris is an associate attorney specializing in antitrust and consumer protection litigation. Her dedication to advocacy, justice, and compassionate leadership reflects Caring Contact’s commitment to supporting individuals with dignity and care.
“Connection can save lives. I’m honored to help lead an organization that provides compassion, support, and hope to people during difficult moments.”
— Shayla Harris
Rekha Sali, Vice President
Rekha Sali is a seasoned executive and Managing Director at one of the world’s leading financial institutions, where she leads large-scale technology transformation initiatives. Driven by a deep commitment to community service and mental health advocacy, she brings both strategic vision and heartfelt leadership to Caring Contact.
“Caring Contact creates a space where people feel heard, supported, and less alone. That mission deeply resonates with me.”
— Rekha Sali
Amisha Shah, Secretary
An oncology clinical research professional and Caring Contact volunteer listener, Amisha Shah is dedicated to empathy-driven support, advocacy, and human connection.
“Sometimes the most meaningful gift we can offer is our willingness to listen with compassion and without judgment.”
— Amisha Shah
Lee Zuber, Treasurer
With more than 20 years of leadership experience in financial services, Lee Zuber, Managing Partner at CREATIVE Financial Group, brings operational expertise and a deep commitment to strengthening Caring Contact’s impact throughout the region.
“Every person deserves compassion, understanding, and the reassurance that they do not have to face difficult moments alone.”
— Lee Zuber
Welcoming New Trustees
Marc Millet
Marc Millet is a semi-retired patent attorney and longtime 988 volunteer listener whose years of compassionate service reflect his commitment to supporting individuals in crisis and strengthening human connection.
Dr. Robert Frey
An educator and mentor with more than two decades of experience, Dr. Robert Frey is passionate about promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and creating supportive environments for youth and families.
Mayukh Mukherjee
Mayukh Mukherjee is an entrepreneur working to expand access to mental healthcare through clinical services and technology. He operates outpatient mental health clinics in New Jersey and is the founder of Carelinq, a platform designed to support clients between therapy sessions. As a volunteer with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Mayukh brings a deep commitment to empathy and service. As a board member, he is focused on helping Caring Contact grow sustainably while preserving its core mission of compassionate listening.
Mayukh Mukherjee, CFA | LinkedIn
Continuing Trustees
Together with our continuing board members, these leaders bring deep professional expertise and a shared commitment to compassion, community service, and emotional well-being.
- Liz Cassin
- Bisrat Mekbeb
- Grant Purtell
- Emily Qualben
- DeAnn Snook
- Dominique Bechade Trott
Each member of Caring Contact’s leadership team brings valuable expertise and a shared dedication to supporting emotional well-being, reducing stigma, and fostering compassionate care within our communities.
We are deeply grateful to our board members, volunteers, donors, and community partners who continue making this work possible.
Together, we are strengthening connections, expanding support, and helping ensure that no one has to face life’s difficult moments alone.
