As her young daughter grew up, she struggled socially and academically. When her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD, CAPD, and Asperger’s Syndrome, she finally had an explanation for her challenges. Kim was ready to help her, but realized that few resources were available. Thus to help her daughter and others, she designed and founded the iCan House in 2008. At 24, her daughter now lives and works in Raleigh with her husband and their bird Nori. Erica is living what is possible, as it’s about what she CAN do!
Now with an adult daughter on her own, Kim is adapting to life on her own in Winston Salem with her 3 dogs and 7 birds!
With a Masters in Social Work, BA in Psychology, and BS in Social Work, Melissa brings extensive experience in clinical, educational, nonprofit, and leadership roles. And she is passionate about the work we do, radiant with positive energy, and quick witted and sharp minded.
Originally from HIgh Point, Melissa lived in Fort Worth Texas for several years while working with the Dallas VA as a Clinical Social Worker. She then moved to Upper Marlboro Maryland for a few years while working at the Medstar Washington Hospital Center as a Clinical Social Worker. After living out of the state for approximately 8 years Melissa returned to Jamestown NC and is home to stay.
Melissa has an extensive background with children, youth, and adults that are challengedby intellectual developmental disabilities and other mental health disorders. Melissa studied Psychology and Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill and UNC Greensboro, where she devoted much of her time outside of school to community leadership, grass roots projects, and community health and empowerment efforts in partnership with The United Way, Leadership Connections, Guilford County Health Department, Housing and Urban Development, and the Greensboro Urban Ministries. Melissa also co-founded a 501c3 grassroots organization that assisted individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their families where she served as Executive Director for many years as well. Melissa has had extensive training in Behavior Modification, Motivational Interviewing, and treatment modalities that focus on empowering individuals and meeting them where they are. She is ecstatic to be with the iCan House.
Janice loves to travel and experience new adventures, visiting wonders of the world while living in the Middle East. She also had the opportunity to experience a variety of new foods and cultures.
Janice loves all things vintage, retro, and antique. In her spare time she explores vintage and thrift stores taking in all the nostalgia around. She enjoys making new connections and being a supportive team member. Janice is excited to join the iCan House team and meet the members and families.
Natalie has extensive clinical and educational experience working with neurodiverse children, adolescents, and adults. Her passion for people and music ultimately influenced her desire to become a board certified music therapist to work with children and adolescents across all developmental stages and abilities. She is passionate about using music to connect and communicate with others while fostering an environment that promotes freedom, creativity, and self-expression. When she is not working or studying, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, cooking, hiking, traveling, and her dog, Cash. She also is actively involved with the worship team at her church in Kernersville.
Before coming to iCan House, Natalie worked as the graduate assistant for Radford University’s Department of Music. There, she coordinated events and communication with prospective high school students, planned and oversaw audition days on campus, and launched and managed the department’s social media along with other administrative duties. Her clinical experience paired with her organization and communication skills led her to the iCan House admissions position, where she will be communicating with all new club members and their families. She is overjoyed to join the iCan House team!
When Chloe is not at iCan House, she works at Archdale-Trinity Middle School as a Cross-Categorical teacher. Chloe was named the beginning teacher of the year for Randolph County Schools in the spring of 2019. Chloe enjoys spending time with her friends, traveling and she has a small photography/videography business. Chloe also loves her two cats, Finn and Avery and is a foster mom for Forsyth Humane Society.
Living in the Triad, Benita has two amazing children and a furry child too. She enjoys spending time with close friends and family. Benita embraces the rich history of iCan House and is excited about being a part of the iCan House community. She is a group facilitator for iClub, iClub Jr. and Meet-n-Eat.
Recently retired from a local school district, April is excited to join iCan House as a group facilitator. Her experience with neurodiverse persons adds so much to our programs, members and staff.
Living in Guilford County, April enjoys spending time with her family and taking family vacations, plus exploring beautiful destinations during solo, soul-rejuvenating trips.
Barbara lives in Bermuda Run with her husband and black lab Zoey. Her older daughter, Cameron graduated Harvard 2018 and attends Elon Law School. Her younger daughter, Danielle recently graduated from Dartmouth. Her step-son lives and works in Charlotte, and step-daughter lives in Orlando and works at Disney. Barbara very much looks forward to building authentic relationships with the club members and their families and is excited for this new adventure!
Fun fact: Barbara played college basketball, as did both her daughters, and she once played in a pick-up game with Michael Jordan.