Staff
Craig Cuccia
Director of Capital Projects/ Founder
Mr. Cuccia is the visionary behind Reconcile New Orleans, Inc. Opening Café Reconcile in 1996 with the help of the late Harry S. Thompson, S.J., Craig created a thriving community of people committed to addressing the array of challenges facing youth in and around New Orleans. From humble beginning the organization has expanded its reach thru ought the city and assisted New Orleans youth in initiating positive changes in their lives. Craig’s steadfast commitment is a constant reminder of the mission and the need for positive venues for New Orleans youth. Craig is supported by his wife, Lisa, son Craig, and daughter Sophia.
Mary Lou Specha, PBVM
Executive Director
Mary Lou is a Sister of the Presentation from Dubuque Iowa and began her ministry at Reconcile New Orleans in June as the Executive Director. Mary Lou is a lifelong educator, serving as a teacher, youth minister, coach, mentor and, most recently, a campus minister. Sr. Mary Lou comes to Reconcile New Orleans after serving ten years as the Director of Campus Ministry at St. Stephen Catholic Student Center on the campus of the University of Northern Iowa. Her desire to relocate to New Orleans was sparked by mission trips with college students and her religious community to help in the recovery effort after Hurricane Katrina. Mary Lou is excited about this ministry opportunity: “I know God has called me to this mission, and I feel blessed by this opportunity to serve the young people of New Orleans.” Please stop by the Café where you can meet Mary Lou most afternoons during lunch!
Donna Bowie
Director of Programs
Mrs. Bowie has experience working with youth prior to her current role
with Reconcile. She worked with the Jefferson Parish School System as
well as with Goodwill Industries/JOB1. Mrs. Bowie has several years of grant management and management experience. In her current role, she is supported by two case managers and a life skills facilitator. Donna and
her husband have one child.
Greg Fortenberry
Life Skills Counselor
Has been with Café Reconcile almost a year. Work Experiences: over 20 years of Social Service with at risk youth. Ran a Boys Group Home from my home for 8 years, married with two boys, age 17 and 10. Interest includes singing and photography.
“I feel serving the youth of our city is the real recovery of New Orleans. Reconcile is an awesome tool in preparing our youth for their new life. I am blessed to be a part of Reconcile New Orleans.”
David Giardiana
David Giardina comes to Café Reconcile with years of restaurant experience as both a G.M. and Chef in some of New Orleans finest restaurants. David returned to New Orleans shortly after Katrina. “I just couldn’t stay away after the storm as the city kept pulling on my heart strings, it hurt me so much to be away while everyone was going through such pain! I came back and helped some family and friends rebuild their homes and get their lives back to normal. After 3 years of working as a construction contractor, the Café Reconcile opportunity arose and I jumped on it. Working for this organization gives me the ability to earn a decent living doing what I love, while also helping young people reach their full potential.”
Linda Collins
Case Manager
recently became a member of the Reconcile family. Has 15 years in the insurance industry. Held positions as file room supervisor, claim service assistant, claims assistant, public affairs assistant and claims processor. “My interest in serving Café Reconcile comes from my passion for young people. I believe that young people have the power to unlock their potential. Potential that will help them to shape their own future. All they need is some guidance. They are the greatest asset we have towards making this world a better place.
Judy Wallace
Business Manager
Has been with Café Reconcile for almost a year. Worked as a financial analyst, loan closer, collector and accounting clerk. Married with a daughter, age 17 and recently added a Chihuahua to the family. Interests include gardening, cooking and spending time with family and friends. “I enjoy working with the children and the staff. We have a very dedicated staff and I am blessed to be on the journey with them.”
"Chef Joe" Smith
Kitchen Manager
has been with Café Reconcile for five years. Background in the Food and Beverage Industry for twenty-five years, married with four children. His past experiences allow him to be a role model and a mentor to the children. “In the beginning of my career here at Café Reconcile I viewed it as a job. What keeps me here is my interest in the mission of Café Reconcile and my love of the children we help.”
"Chef Curtis" Pollet
Department Manager
Prior to the Hurricane Katrina, Curtis successfully owned and operated his own optical business in Chalmette, LA. After his business was completely lost to the storm, he began volunteering in our kitchen at Café Reconcile. Curtis discovered that he enjoys the culinary arts and working with the students and to our fortune, has stayed on as the Department Chef at the Café.
Stephanie Regan
Garde Manger, Cashier
has been with Café Reconcile foralmost a year. Has worked every aspect of the restaurant business for the past five years. Engaged to be married later this year and the owner of three dogs and two cats. “I enjoy being with the children and teaching them how to make the famous Bananas Foster Bread Pudding”.
"Miss Delores" Falcon
Hostess
Has been with Café Reconcile four years. Waitress for thirty-five years raised a family of five children, five grandchildren and one great grand child to be born in September. Interests include reading, dancing and spending time with my family.
“I like the children, the staff and it keeps me young coming here. It is a very positive place to be. And mostly, I love the customers, they are the best!”
Alvin Gaines
Steward
Has been with Café Reconcile one year. Father of five, grand-father of six. Work experiences: pipe cutter, truck driver and stock person. Interest: being of service to others the best way I can. “My interest in serving here at Café Reconcile is serving the children that come through here and to give back to this city. I want to help the children that are willing to give life a try.”
Br. Joe
Volunteer
since last summer at Café Reconcile. While Brother Joe was teaching in upstate New York, his Provincial announced plans to send three to four Brothers to New Orleans to help in the recovery from Katrina. After forty years of teaching, Brother volunteered to come to New Orleans. After researching organizations he decided to offer his services at Café Reconcile. He assists wherever in the daily operation of the restaurant. His main job, as he sees it, is to be a “mentor an affirmer of these kids.” He is there to listen and offer advice. He finds the staff at Café Reconcile to be spiritual and dedicated people.