MIAMI — Mission 500, the security industry’s nonprofit charity dedicated to supporting children in need across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, recently announced two leadership appointments.
Tristin Vaccaro, who has been instrumental in expanding Mission 500’s impact as community engagement coordinator, has been elevated to executive director of the organization. Joining her in this next chapter is Phil Leverette, CEO of ECT Fire & Security, who has been named to the Mission 500 board of directors.
Vaccaro joined Mission 500 as community engagement coordinator in May 2024, bringing her expertise in social media management, public relations and event organization. As owner of Vaccaro Copywriting & Marketing Solutions, she had already established herself as a trusted voice in the physical security industry.
During her time at Mission 500, she “has been instrumental in growing the organization’s community presence and financial impact,” according to the Mission 500 announcement. As executive director, she “will take on expanded responsibility for the organization’s communications, operations and outreach.”
Why is Tristin Vaccaro New Mission 500 Executive Director?
“Tristin’s impact on Mission 500 and the security industry has been nothing short of remarkable,” says Jason Lutz, chairman of Mission 500. “She has poured her heart into this organization and has made a measurable impact on how we connect with our communities and carry out our mission.”
“I am deeply honored and excited to step into this role and continue championing the incredible work Mission 500 does,” says Vaccaro in the Mission 500 announcement. “My love for this organization runs deep, having witnessed how it positively impacts both the lives we touch and those who contribute.
“I can’t wait to build on that legacy and bring even more of our industry along for the journey,” she says.
Mission 500 also recently welcomed Phil Leverette to its board of directors. A U.S. Army veteran of Desert Storm, Leverette has spent more than 30 years building and leading organizations in the security industry. He currently serves as CEO and owner of Extreme Custom Technology, Inc. (ECT) Fire & Security, a provider of commercial fire alarms, suppression systems and technical integration services.
He is also the founder of Pure Aqua Vitae, a water and air filtration company, and serves on the board of access control manufacturer, HavenLock.
More About Mission 500 Board Member Phil Leverette
Leverette has been a visible and committed presence in the Mission 500 community for years, including his participation in the 2025 Mission 500 Service Trip. Most recently, he was honored with the Mission 500 Chairman’s Award at ISC West 2026 in recognition of “his steadfast dedication to the organization’s charitable initiatives.”
“Phil embodies the spirit of what Mission 500 is all about,” says Lutz in the Mission 500 announcement. “He sees a need and doesn’t hesitate to act. His experience as an entrepreneur, veteran and community servant will bring tremendous value to our board and we are grateful to have him officially join us.”
“Mission 500 has shown me time and again what it looks like when an industry and its people decide to give back,” says Leverette in the announcement. “I’m proud to take on a greater role in supporting this organization and the families it serves.”
