Staff

As the Program Director Melissa oversees all iCan House programs and events; ensures open communications and relationships with members and their families; manages staff and team performance which includes staff training and inservices.

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.

Benita has worked with children and families for over 20 years as a social worker She grew up in Detroit, Michigan and moved to Durham, NC when she was in high school. Benita is a proud graduate of Winston-Salem State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Middle Grades Education. Her master’s degree in Social Work is from the Joint Master of Social Work Program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Benita educates, encourages and empowers those that she serves. She has experience working with neurodiverse individuals and currently works in the school setting with diverse populations utilizing her School Social Work license.
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.