Tom Lewis

CEO / CoFounder

Go big or go home - My successful Youtube motivational blogs left me with a rather large group of followers, but it wasn't enough.  I needed a way to deliver our message of joy to a much broader audience.

With eleven other apostle's of possitivity I started the Spread the Joy company.  We believe we now have the people and resources pulled together to make a real difference.

Please join us in our efforts to change the world, one smile at a time...

Bonnie Lewis

Executive Assistant

I am Tom’s Mom.  My husband and I have been married 55 years.  Tom has one sibling, a sister who is 3 years older.

Tom has taught us many lessons since he was born in 1974.  He taught us that joy is not a state of mind that comes from doing "something", it is simply a choice he makes every day to rise above his disabilities and be the best Tom he can be. 

Without fail, during the roughest times in our lives, the universe has always brought the most wonderful, caring people to our door. 

Dave Paluba

Communications Director

When I met Tom I was inspired by his ability to downplay his own physical limitations in order to spread as much joy as possible every day.  Working with Tom gives me the opportunity to use skills developed from a 40 year career in Telecommunications.

Working with Tom allows me to feel the joy of giving back to the community in a way that keeps me smiling all the time.  Tom is a constant reminder that happiness is not something that just happens, it is a choice that we can all make every single day.

Greta Edwards

Head of Representatives

I grew up in Minnesota, but as an adult I left the cold winters to live in California.  After serving in the U.S Navy, I moved to Upstate New York, worked in the orthopedic industry and raised my daughter. Since 2015, I have lived in New Jersey near my family.

Meeting Tom has most certainly been one of the biggest blessings in my life. I am so thankful for his friendship, his positive outlook and his sense of humor. He is a wonderful example of what it means to live joyfully every day. I am so happy to be part of the Spread the Joy team!

Jess Conte

Committee Director

I grew up in Monroe township, NJ.  The two things I am most passionate about are being around my children and doing things for others. Tom and I have worked together over the last few years. Through the years of working together Tom decided to start his own business. Him and I became great friends and I wanted to be a part of making his dream come true. I’m very organized and share Tom’s passion for bringing Joy to others. 

Tom is always so positive. He has a heart of gold and has so much compassion for others. He reminds me of the important things in life and is a very special friend. 

Steve Flannery

Advisory Comm./Collaborator

I was born in the Bronx, NY and grew up in Ramsey, NJ (far north Jersey).  Maintaining relationships is of great importance to me.  I am still close to my buddies from first grade! It is important to me to treat all people with respect and kindness.  I was drawn to the Health Care industry by the importance and relevance of the meaningful work and the impact on people’s lives.  Although I was in the financial side of the business, I believe I was able to make a difference.  I believe that my background in Heath Care has engendered in me a sense of compassion and kindness towards others.

The world is in desperate need of people like Tom who want to help others see the Joy in everyday life!

Patti Scott

NI/Accounting & Bookkeeping

I grew up mostly in NJ.  When I was 10 we moved to a farm in Franklin (Somerset County). I lived in Ann Arbor Michigan during college years and loved it there!

I love to spend time with my nieces/nephews, grandkids, family and friends; traveling; reading; gardening; meeting people; exploring neighborhoods; trying new things and listening to live music.

I consider myself an innovator so I'm always trying new things, making mistakes/failing and learning from it.

I think finding joy is one of the most important things in life - along with love and kindness.  I’m inspired by Tom’s commitment to create the space and opportunities for joy and connection.

Cherry Oakley

Advisory Comm./Collaborator

My dad was career military so I grew up partially in the US and partially overseas.  The things that bring me joy are my girls, kindness, music, exercising with a buddy, Mainecation, good food,  surprises that make someone smile uncontrollably,  binge watching a sleeper hit series, justice, when a plan comes together, hearing someone’s story, spiritual connection, Aha! moments, hot tubbing,and ending my days watching the moon. 

Tom shows me that patience and steady steps on the path towards what you hope for can not only change your life for the better but can also change the life of others because Joy not only attracts good things but Joy cements good things and good people together. Just look what it has done for our Joy Team! 

Annette Smith

Advisory Comm./Collaborator

My younger daughter Tiffany was born in July 1983, and within her first 3 months of life, she received a diagnosis of several developmental disabilities. This diagnosis introduced me to a much different journey than I had experienced raising her sister. There were many unexpected twists and turns and difficult challenges however I wouldn’t trade this pathway for anything in the world.  I was very fortunate to meet many positive and unforgettable people, individuals living with a disability, parents, educators and advocates along the way, who mentored and guided me to where I am today. Because of my gratitude I have always wanted to lighten the load for those individuals and their families who are beginning this journey, by encouraging them through the message “you CAN do this!” Meeting Tom and joining the “Joy Team” presents an opportunity to continue spreading positive energy.

Dawn Rice

Advisory Comm./Collaborator

I grew up in Bucks County Pennsylvania.  I moved to New Jersey after receiving my degree.  I have worked in the Human Services field throughout my adult life.  I have always found this to be rewarding in a variety of ways.  I met Tom and was immediately affected by his positivity and relentless commitment to Spreading Joy to all. He is truly the embodiment of “when life give you lemons – you make lemonade”.  His outlook is not only refreshing.  He simply wants everyone to enjoy all that life has to offer and not get bogged down in the negativity that visits us all. I am happy to know Tom and be part of his vision to change the world through Spread the Joy.

Kelly Youssef

Cofounder

I grew up in Audubon, NJ and have lived in South Jersey my whole life. I love spending time with my son, husband, family, and friends (and my dog too!). My drive and passion in life has always been to help others.

I’m so fortunate that through my journey, I met Tom! Tom and I have known each other for many years, and have worked on various projects together. Tom has such a positive and inspiring outlook on things, and I’m so fortunate to call Tom my friend. I’m honored to be a part of the team and to be able to Spread the Joy to others together!!