Executive Director
Named to this position in April 2024, Eric Scheffler is a dedicated individual recognized for his significant contributions to public safety and public health initiatives over the course of his illustrious 28-year career in law enforcement.
Hailing from Atlantic County, NJ, Scheffler’s life reflects a deep-seated commitment to serving his community. His years in law enforcement have been marked by visionary leadership and unwavering dedication. Scheffler’s impact extends beyond organizational roles. He served as a Lieutenant with the Atlantic City Police Department, where his progressive leadership was instrumental in shaping training protocols and professional development standards. Scheffler’s tenure as Atlantic County Sheriff for two terms underscored his commitment to effective governance and community empowerment.
Throughout his career in law enforcement, Scheffler championed innovative approaches to community engagement, spearheading the creation of five transformative outreach programs. These initiatives targeted pressing societal challenges such as food insecurity, primary care access, substance abuse prevention, mental health support, and veteran assistance. By fostering collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities, Scheffler’s initiatives have become cornerstone elements in building trust and fostering dialogue. Most recently, he served with distinction as the Executive Director of the Hope Exists Foundation, demonstrating his passion for uplifting communities and addressing critical social issues.