Robert Schanz, President
A consultant in the field of real estate and construction, Bob advises clients on business development, project development, cost reviews, material procurement and organizational procedures.
Kevin Acevedo, Vice President
A Washington Heights resident, Kevin Acevedo was initially attracted to GDS by the passion and dedication that he saw in the leaders to make a meaningful difference in kids’ lives.
Elena Kate Hughes, Secretary
Elena is the Secretary of GDS and a member of the Board of Directors. She volunteered with GDS in 2002 as both a camp counselor and photography teacher.
Sandi Galawanji, Treasurer
Sandi Galawanji is the Treasurer of GDS and a member of the Board of Directors. Sandi, who holds a PHD in Greco Roman Archeology and a master’s in accounting.
Dr. Gary Altheim, Founder
Dr. Gary Altheim is a New York State licensed Clinical Psychologist who has extensive experience in working therapeutically with emotionally challenged children, young adults, seniors, and families.
David Allen
David Allen is the General Manager and a minority owner at Kassoy LLC an iconic diamond and jewelry industry supplier in business since 1936.
Daniel Jimenez
Having grown up in a Christian home and with a strong set of values and beliefs, he developed his character modeling his parents’ love for helping and serving others.
Bob Schanz is the Board President of Growth & Development Services Inc. (GDS). A consultant in the field of real estate and construction, Bob advises clients on business development, project development, cost reviews, material procurement and organizational procedures. Aside from his work with GDS, Bob is currently a Board Member of Rising Ground and was past President of Edwin Gould Services for Children and Families. Bob worked on the merger with Leake & Watts which is now Rising Ground. The combined organizations created a multifaceted nonprofit agency which impacts more than 25,000 children and adults in 50 different programs such as family foster care; adoption; special education in schools for children with emotional and learning disabilities; and unaccompanied migrant child program to name a few. Bob is a past Board Member of Earth Day NY which dealt with environmental advocacy and sustainable environmental solutions.
A Washington Heights resident, Kevin Acevedo was initially attracted to GDS by the passion and dedication that he saw in the leaders to make a meaningful difference in kids’ lives. “There’s always been a need for this type of work in our neighborhood and I knew then that by joining GDS I can make a difference in my community”. Kevin has seen the success that GDS has had in its mission to empower youth to be the best versions of themselves, become leaders in their fields, capable of influencing more youth. Kevin’s role as a member of the Board of Directors, is to establish and maintain a positive relationship with the neighborhood’s Latino community, as well as provide perspective of what it’s like to grow up in the community that GDS services. Kevin is inspired by those who make something out of nothing. Immigrants who come to this country without even knowing the language and make a life here. Young people who don’t have equal opportunity yet aren’t afraid to reach for their goals. And I’m also inspired by those who follow their vision even when those around them don’t see their vision. Kevin is committed to GDS so that he can witness the new heights GDS will reach in influencing the youth in New York. In 2017 Kevin founded the Uptown Native, showcasing the culture, beauty and pride of Uptown Manhattan. Uptown Native was a platform for artists and advocates from the community and it shed light on ongoing issues. In 2020, all proceeds from online sales were donated to organizations supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. Kevin has earned a master’s in economics and a BA in Mathematics and has spent time volunteering at various food banks as well as the Community Affairs Unit of the Mayor’s Office and the Excel program at GDS! In his free time, he loves making music and making films.
Sandi Galawanji is the Treasurer of GDS and a member of the Board of Directors. Sandi, who holds a PHD in Greco Roman Archeology and a master’s in accounting. Sandi was drawn to GDS by the message of hope Dr 
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Daniel “Danny” Jimenez was born in the Dominican Republic to two of the most amazing parents anyone could ever have. Having grown up in a Christian home and with a strong set of values and beliefs, he developed his character modeling his parents’ love for helping and serving others. From early on, his passion for youth development manifested--specifically through his work in the Seventh Day Adventist Church’s Pathfinder Club. He became the organization’s youngest counselor and marching & drilling instructor at the young age of 12. Through his mentor-ship, now over 30 years later, he has helped foster the spiritual, mental, and emotional growth of dozens, if not hundreds, of boys and girls.