Meet Our Team
David Kowlessar
Founder and CEO, David is a visionary and hands-on leader dedicated to driving innovation, growth, and opportunity through the foundation’s mission. Actively involved in all aspects of the organization, David combines strategic thinking with a strong ability to inspire and motivate others, helping guide the foundation toward meaningful and lasting impact.
In addition to leading the foundation, David is an experienced aviation investment advisor with extensive industry connections and a diverse business background spanning the United States, Central America, and South America. With a successful history as an inventor, entrepreneur, and music industry promoter, he brings a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and business expertise. David is committed to building strong relationships with federal, state and local governments, businesses, and community partners while delivering solutions that create positive change and long-term success.
Jerry Laine
Jerry is a dedicated community leader, youth advocate, and financial professional with extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, business development, and youth programming. He currently serves as President of Magic Day Camp, where he has helped expand and strengthen programs that provide children with safe, enriching, and memorable summer experiences since joining the organization in 2023.
In addition to his work at Magic Day Camp, Jerry serves as the Chief Financial Officer of MYAP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and families through after-school and youth development programs. His strong financial background and passion for community service have made him a valuable leader in organizations focused on empowering young people.
Jerry earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Lehman College and his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Southern New Hampshire University. Prior to his nonprofit and camp leadership roles, he worked as an Assistant Vice President of Small Business Banking with Bank of America (BOFA), where he helped entrepreneurs and growing businesses achieve long-term financial success, including organizations serving youth and families.
Jerry currently resides on Long Island with his family, where he remains actively involved in youth athletics and community programs. He coaches AAU basketball in multiple leagues, serves as a director for Farmingdale P.A.L., and dedicates his summers to mentoring and coaching children through camp basketball programs.
His leadership, financial expertise, and commitment to youth development make him a valuable asset to any nonprofit organization and board of directors.
Daniel Dikanda
Client Service Representative & Financial Education Specialist
Daniel Dikanda is a highly motivated and seasoned Financial Services Representative with more than 13 years of diverse experience spanning financial transactions, client relations, and team leadership. With a strong foundation in investment acumen and HR management, Dikanda brings a strategic, people‑centered approach to every member interaction and educational engagement.
In his role as a Client Service Representative and Financial Education Specialist, Dikanda excels at analyzing financial needs, guiding members through complex decisions, and delivering clear, empowering financial education. His background includes managing Loan Service departments, executing strategic business plans, and driving operational excellence across both retail and banking environments.
Dikanda holds an M.A. Degree in Industrial–Organizational Psychology, a discipline that strengthens his ability to understand human behavior, optimize team performance, and create meaningful member experiences. His expertise extends across marketplace lending, business administration, sales, client relationship management, retention, and staffing—making him a versatile and trusted resource for both members and colleagues.
Known for his professionalism, analytical mindset, and commitment to service, Dikanda consistently contributes to organizational growth while helping individuals build financial confidence and long‑term stability.
Jason William McCuiston
Jason William McCuiston is a highly experienced military, law enforcement, and security professional whose career has been defined by courage, leadership, and dedication to public safety and national security. A former United States Marine Corps Sergeant, McCuiston served
from 2001 to 2006 as a Plane Captain and Power Plants Mechanic, where he developed extensive expertise in aviation operations, maintenance, and mission readiness while leading Marines in high-pressure environments.
Following his military service, McCuiston transitioned into law enforcement and protective
security roles, serving as a Patrolman, Military Police Officer, Patrol Supervisor, and member of a Special Reaction Team. He later served with the Norcross, Georgia Police Department, where he further strengthened his experience in tactical operations, crisis response, and public safety
leadership.
McCuiston is widely recognized for his heroic actions during the Holocaust Memorial Museum shooting in Washington, D.C., in June 2009. Serving as an officer with the Holocaust Memorial Museum Police and Security Division at the time, he courageously returned fire during the
active shooter attack, helping stop the threat and saving numerous lives inside the museum. His
bravery, composure under fire, and decisive response earned him the Medal of Valor in recognition of his extraordinary heroism and dedication to protecting others during one of the
nation’s most tragic acts of violence.
In addition to his law enforcement experience, McCuiston served on the Anti-Terrorism Team
for an Exelon Nuclear Power Plant, helping protect critical infrastructure and support national security operations. He later worked as a Department of Defense contractor and recruiter with Stillwater Human Capital, supporting defense staffing and specialized operational initiatives. His
career also includes service with the Department ofWar/NavAir Headquarters at Patuxent
River, Maryland, contributing to military aviation and defense support operations at one of the country’s premier naval aviation facilities.
Throughout his distinguished career, JasonWilliam McCuiston has demonstrated unwavering commitment to service, operational excellence, and the protection of others, earning respect as a courageous leader and dedicated professional in both military and civilian sectors.