Mission Statement
Working Towards a Better Tomorrow
Our mission is to honor and empower veterans, first responders, and their families by providing essential resources, support, and community-building initiatives that foster resilience, restore hope, and strengthen the fabric of our community.
Meet the team
Al Lacerda
President
An Iraq 2003 Marine Corps Veteran, Al is a producer at Bridgewater Tv and a graduate of Bridgewater State University with a BS computer science. Fire For Effect Foundation was started by Al to strengthen community bonds and find better and unique ways to support our veterans and first responders by operating outside the standard system, avoiding much of the red tape and time associated with seeking relief.
Paul Mulcahy
Vice President
Paul is the Owner of Black Hat Brew Works in Bridgewater. A long standing member of the Bridgewater community Paul has championed and supported many local causes. His background in food science and electronic engineering gave him the tools to open his business in 2015 and allowed him to turn Black Hat into a force for good.
Christopher Salley Treasurer
Chris Is an Army Veteran who hold a BS in computer science from Bridgewater State University. His love for country and dedication to the community have proven to be a major asset in helping to move the foundation in a positive direction.
Brian O'Connell Secretary
Brian is an Airforce Veteran and local real estate agent. Brian's affiliation with the foundation started over two years ago with wanting to help and volunteer his time. Since then he has proven to be a champion in finding ways to help support veterans and first responders and has become a very important piece in support of the mission.
Niles
Welch
Of Councel
Niles is a Licensed Attorney and part owner of a newly established law practice right here in the Boston area, Beantown Law Group, LLC. He specializes in several practice areas, including estate planning, family law, contract law, and assisting small and medium size businesses in a number of areas. Niles is a huge supporter of veterans and first responders .
Elias Bassila Community Outreach
A Marine Veteran with a Bachelor's of Science in Finance and Accounting Management from Northeastern University, Elias brings over a decade of experience in relationship management to the Fire for Effect Foundation. He is committed to advancing the foundation's mission by fostering relationships that drive impactful support for Veterans
Ashley Sabato
Marketing and Fundraising
Ashley Sabato is the owner of GET Fit in Bridgewater and has dedicated the last 7 years in town to building community. With a Masters in Marketing and Professional Sales, Ashley looks forward to bringing her strengths to the team to help veterans and first responders while continuously helping build a stronger community.