About Us
Nick’s Ride 4 Friends is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization committed to the fight against substance use disorders.
Our Story
Nick Campagnola who lost his fight with addiction in December 2015 at 20 years of age. Nick’s struggle with addiction began as a teen, when a sports injury was treated with painkillers. This slowly grew into a heroin addiction. In his unfortunate relapse, an overdose on a mixture of fentanyl and synthetic acid led to Nick’s death.
Nick was a good kid with a big heart and a friend to all. He is missed by many and remembered through this organization and the work we do.
Our Work
Nick’s Ride 4 Friends bridges the gap from clinical to peer support through a grassroots approach that begins by first helping those battling addiction find the best treatment plan most suitable for them. We facilitate communication during the rehabilitation process between the individual, their family, and clinical/therapeutic staff. Our Clubhouse provides a soft landing after rehabilitation through general acts of kindness that include—but aren’t limited to—assisting with housing placement, employment assistance, linkage to transportation, and maintaining a safe haven & supportive environment. We also offer wrap-around support, case management, and are committed to working as a life coach to help those in recovery fully acclimate to becoming active members of the community. All of this is made possible through generous donations and volunteerism as we facilitate ongoing peer-based community engagement.
Our Approach
We take a boots-on-the ground approach to help the people who need us most, and we rely on your donations and spirit of generous volunteerism to remain operational and make an impact. Our goal is to provide programs that meet the needs of those struggling with addiction and make a difference by concentrating on recovery, wellness, and job searching.
Using a clubhouse model, we enable people battling addiction to feel comfortable while working on their journey to recovery, surrounded by peers and supporters. We are truly committed to helping people become acclimated members of the community again.
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Brian Schenck
Board President
Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck currently serves as the chairman of the board for Nick’s Ride 4 Friends. He has worked closely with the organization since it’s founding and remains committed to helping those suffering from substance abuse disorders find a path to recovery. He brings nearly 27 years of law enforcement and administrative experience to the executive board of the organization and a passion to help those in our community that need us most.
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Mike Finizio
Vice President
Mike has had an extensive background in business-to-business sales for many years. As the Business Development Manager at HR One, Mr. Finizio’s responsibilities are to consult with clients of various sizes in all industries to analyze their business needs and determine areas of improvement.
Mike is an avid advocate for our Recovery Community and passionate in supporting our Mission.
Mike is a member of the Syracuse Executives Association, a Master Freemason and an active member at Auburn Lodge # 124.
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Rick Hansinger
Treasurer
Previously, Rick held the position of executive director for Nick’s Ride 4 Friends Inc. from 12/2020 through 01/2022 bringing with him 30 years of leadership experience. During his tenure, Rick successfully supported the Organization’s move from its original location to 13 Chapel Street where he oversaw logistics and renovations to the historic site. He played a pivotal role in restoring trust among stakeholders and morale among its team of staff. Rick’s contributions ensured both the Organization’s credibility and sustainability of operations, eventually naming the current executive director. Rick returned in 2025 replacing former treasurer who termed out at the close of 2024 due to his extensive experience and knowledge in managing and growing not-for-profit budgets. Rick is well known for his work as the executive director of E. John Gavras Center where his transformative leadership developed the Center into what it is today. At his core, Rick is a committed community member, leader and family man vested in supporting vulnerable populations living within our communities.
Scholarships
Wrestling “UNDERDOG” Scholarship:
Honoring Nick Campagnola’s love of wrestling and unwavering support for the “underdog,” an annual $500 scholarship is awarded to two senior Auburn High School wrestlers to help further his or her education. The scholarships are awarded to wrestlers who have demonstrated leadership on and off the mat, participated in general acts of kindness, and are passionate about the sport.
Wrestling Camp Scholarship:
We award a $1000 scholarship to help alleviate some costs associated with student and coach participation in the annual wrestling camp hosted by Champions for Life. The annual Champions for Life wrestling camp focuses on skills development and conditioning work.