FellowshipLIFE Names Leaders at Pines Village and Riverwalk Village

March 9, 2026

FellowshipLIFE has named Lori Vernachio executive director of Pines Village in Whiting, N.J., and David Van Den Heuvel lifestyle and hospitality director at Riverwalk Village at The House of the Good Shepherd in Hackettstown, N.J.

“David and Lori are important additions to our system,” Brian G. Lawrence, president and CEO of FellowshipLIFE, said in a statement.

Vernachio brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in senior-care settings, including skilled nursing, assisted living, hospice, transitional care and community-based support.

“I’m excited to build upon the strong foundation and collaborate with the team to continue enhancing the aging experience for all who call Pines Village home,” Vernachio said.

She previously served as executive director of Brighton Gardens of Edison, a Sunrise Senior Living community, and held leadership roles at other continuing-care retirement communities in New Jersey.

Vernachio holds credentials including licensed nursing home administrator, certified assisted living administrator and certified dementia practitioner. In her new role, she will oversee operations at Pines Village, with a focus on resident experience and team engagement.

Van Den Heuvel joined the FellowshipLIFE system in December 2025. He brings more than 20 years of experience in human services and education, including nearly a decade in senior living.

“It’s an honor to step into this new role,” Van Den Heuvel said. “I’m excited to bring fresh ideas and create meaningful opportunities that enrich residents’ lives and support vibrant living.”

At Riverwalk Village at The House of the Good Shepherd, Van Den Heuvel will lead community life programming and engagement initiatives aimed at supporting residents’ social connections and daily experiences.

FellowshipLIFE is a New Jersey not-for-profit organization that operates five life plan communities and provides services including independent living, supported living, home care, medical services and wellness programs.