meet our team
Gay Social is powered by people who care deeply about creating welcoming, in-person LGBTQ+ community across New Jersey. Our team includes volunteers, organizers, and Community Managers who help bring each event to life and make sure everyone feels comfortable showing up as themselves.
From planning events to welcoming attendees and making introductions, our team plays an essential role in shaping the experience at every Gay Social gathering. Many of the faces you see here are also the ones welcoming you at events.
Lloyd Vliet
Co-founder, Chairman of the Board, & Executive Director
Lloyd Vliet, a marketing professional, has been leading Gay Social since its inception in February 2022. As a co-founder, Lloyd’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in driving the organization forward, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.
Gregory Elfers
Director of Fundraising
Gregory “Greg” Elfers is a fundraising professional and community builder with over a decade of experience leading donor engagement and development initiatives for major arts and higher education institutions. A lifelong New Jersey resident, he brings his passion for connection and access to his work as Director of Development and community advocate.
Rashad M. Davis
Advisor to the Board & Mercer County Community Manager
Rashad M. Davis joins Gay Social as a board advisor in 2025, bringing his passion for community building and connection. An illustrator, author, educator, and business owner, Rashad’s work focuses on equity and justice. His expertise in fostering diverse, empowering spaces strengthens Gay Social’s mission, and he’s excited to help grow and enrich our vibrant community.
Sheldon Carpenter
Essex County Community Manager
Sheldon is a Community Manager based in Essex County, helping create welcoming, connected spaces since 2020. Professionally, he works in business development and account leadership and co-leads his firm’s Pride ERG, bringing a people-first, advocacy-driven approach to community, grounded in the belief that belonging is built on connection.
Stephen Frost
Director of Finance & Legal
Stephen Frost is a licensed attorney and seasoned public sector financial professional who oversees Gay Social’s legal and financial functions. With a strong background in law and fiscal management, he ensures the organization’s resources and policies align with its mission of building inclusive, empowering spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.
Gerry Agyeman
Advisor to the Board
Gerry Agyeman, a passionate educator and entrepreneur, joins Gay Social’s advisory board in 2025. Known for his creativity and community spirit, Gerry brings a deep commitment to meaningful connection and personal growth through shared experiences and thoughtful conversation.
Rocky Rinaldi
Morris County Community Manager
Rocky Rinaldi, a seasoned event host and DJ, joins Gay Social as Community Manager in 2025. With 10 years of experience creating pop culture events, Rocky is passionate about using technology and entertainment to foster authentic connections. As a single dad and community advocate, he is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and building meaningful connections.
Matt Kersey
Board Member & Director of Communications
Matt Kersey, a professional graphic designer and seasoned event organizer, joins Gay Social’s board in 2025. With years of experience hosting Pride Night, Matt is passionate about creating events that foster meaningful connections and bring people together in lasting and impactful ways.
Julio SIlva
Social Media Manager
Julio Silva, who joins Gay Social as Social Media Manager in 2025, is a digital storyteller passionate about community building and LGBTQ+ representation. With a background in fashion marketing and social media strategy, Julio uses creativity and data-driven insights to amplify voices, foster connection, and grow vibrant online communities.
Billy F.
Bergen, Essex, and Passaic Counties Community Manager
Billy, an educational professional, has been an active community member since the start of Gay Social. He took the lead as Community Manager in August 2025 for Bergen, Essex, and Passaic Counties. Billy’s passion and dedication have always been essential to fostering and helping expand the organization forward. Establishing a respectful and inclusive community is another core value that is deemed integral for him and the Gay Social.
Phil Carroll
Hunterdon County Community Manager
Phil Carroll, a professional Industrial Designer, has been a part of the Gay Social community since 2023 with his first event at the Coffee Social at Scout’s in High Bridge. Always eager to meet new faces, Phil loves encouraging and fostering connections with members old and new, helping strengthen the community bonds in the group.
