Coffee & Connections
Coffee & Connections is a monthly series for the whole family!
2nd Sunday of Every Month | 2-4 PM
Coffee & Connections is KennedyStrong’s monthly family gathering — a place where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, their families, caregivers, and siblings can connect, play, relax, and build community.
Whether your family includes a 5-year-old, a 15-year-old, a 25-year-old or someone well beyond 25…there’s a place for you here!
And because not everyone connects in the same way, we’ve created different spaces for kids ages 5+ to enjoy:
The Hangout — Meet people, play casual games, and spend time together.
The Game Zone — Bring the energy! Active games, challenges, and plenty of outdoor fun!
The Chill Zone — Prefer things a little quieter? Pull up a chair for UNO, cards, board games, puzzles, and low-key connection.
Meanwhile, parents and caregivers can grab a cup of coffee, meet other families, and join the conversation.
You don’t just bring your family member to Coffee & Connections. You bring your family.
Parents/Caregivers can expect:
- Warm welcome + Mindful warm-up
- Up to three (3) guest speakers from a pool of inspiring families, community resources, and/or local area business
- Engaging conversation and networking
Bring refreshments to share with the other caregivers if you’d like (not required) – just come ready to connect, laugh, and recharge!
Come as a family. Leave with a community.
Please register all kids 48 hours in advance here>
Upcoming Events
November Event
Sunday, November 8 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
💙 John & Melody Hogan
Co-Founders of Polkadot Parent. Drawing on their experience raising a daughter with unique needs, John and Melody created Polkadot Parent to connect Charlotte-area caregivers with trusted resources, practical guidance, and community. Melody hosts the weekly Polkadot Parent Podcast, and together they’ll share their adaptive creative programs (ARTism℠, SENSoria℠, and SPECdrum℠), which give individuals of all abilities a welcoming place to create, build confidence, and belong.
James Hoke, Town of Mooresville Parks & Recreation. James works with the Town of Mooresville’s adaptive camps, creating recreation experiences where children of all abilities can play, grow, and belong. Join us at Coffee & Connections on November 8th to meet James, learn about adaptive camp opportunities for your child, and talk about how families and local programs can work together to make summer fun truly inclusive.
Making Tax Law Work for Your Family, with Craig Field, CPA, ABV, CFP
Therapy, adaptive tools, and accommodations add up, and knowing how the tax code treats them can make a real difference for families like ours. Join us as Craig Field, partner at Ryan, Geer, Field & Rhodes in Matthews, leads a high-level conversation on finishing 2026 strong and preparing for next year. He’ll cover medical expense deductions, ABLE accounts, and dependent care credits, then answer your questions.
December Event
Sunday, December 13 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
We are pleased to host Lindsey Braciele, Founder of Advocations, advancing disability inclusion and accessibility in employment. Lindsey helps families understand SSI and SSDI, including the key steps to take before your child turns 18 and practical tips for young adults who are already working. Join us at Coffee & Connections on November 8th as Lindsey busts one of the most common myths families hear about how many hours our kids can work without losing benefits. You’ll leave with clear answers and real confidence about what comes next.
Meet Dr. Brynn Domkroski, Publisher of Uniquely You Charlotte Metro Magazine. Dr. Domkroski uses her magazine to share the stories, resources, and voices of families across the Charlotte region. Join us at Coffee & Connections on November 8th to meet her, hear what inspires her work, and learn how our KSF families can connect with and be seen in the wider Charlotte community.
Welcome IGNITE Davidson, a program of the Autism Society of North Carolina. IGNITE is a peer-to-peer community center for young adults with autism (high-functioning autism or Asperger’s) who are at least 18, have graduated high school with a diploma, and are their own guardian. Members join for one of two six-month sessions with 35 hours a week of programming (Monday 11am–5pm, Tuesday–Thursday 11am–7pm, Friday 11am–4pm), plus two community weekend activities each month, building friendships and working toward social, financial, educational, and job independence. Join us to learn how IGNITE works, including JUMPSTART, its 10-week summer program for rising high school seniors.
Past Events
October Event
Sunday, October 11 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village🎤 Pam Escobar
Cabarrus County Board of Education Member. A former WBTV investigative reporter who now works with the Town of Huntersville, Pam has spent nearly four years on the school board asking the tough questions families care about. A proud mom of two Cabarrus County Schools students, she’ll share practical ways parents and caregivers can make their voices heard, from speaking at board meetings to building relationships with school leaders, so every child gets the support they deserve.
🎤 Tammy Medlock
September Event
Sunday, September 13 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton VillageAugust Event
Sunday, August 9 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village
Ellen Bertanzetti, a neurotherapist and neurofeedback specialist, spoke about cutting-edge brain training techniques to help clients of all ages overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, and sleep challenges.
Aimee Combs, Executive Director of the Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC), connects families with the resources and information they need to navigate the special needs landscape.
July Event
Sunday, July 12 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village
Kami Keeley shared the wisdom she’s gained raising her son Nick, now in his 30s and thriving in full-time employment.
Maddie Colonnese
Mom to Miles and an assistant professor at UNC Charlotte, walked us through her research on our Summer Sports Camp and why studying inclusive programs matters—not just as a researcher, but as a parent.
June Event
Sunday, June 14 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
🐴 Patrice Gibson
Executive Director, Shining Hope Farms spoke about how equine-assisted services helps individuals of all abilities build confidence, connection, and personal growth.
📚Mandy Thacker
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College South Campus Faculty Lead with the S.O.A.R. (Skills, Opportunity, Awareness, Readiness) Program explained how the S.O.A.R. program helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build independence, confidence, life skills, and meaningful community connections.
🍔 Dawn Hincken
Instructor with the S.O.A.R. Program spoke about the culinary and customer service skills individuals learn through hands-on experience in the campus Bistro.
May Event
Sunday, May 3 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village🐶 Talia Wucherer
Founder of Arin’s Good Girl Dog Treats. Presented on entrepreneurship, inclusion, and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
✨ Josette Duncan
Founder of the Special Needs Community Initiative. Shared strategies for building community connections, supporting families, and expanding opportunities for individuals with special needs.
April Event
Sunday, April 12 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village✨ Joyce Mesick
CEO and Co-Founder of Finding Trusted Care. Shared expertise on caregiving resources, community supports, and connecting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to trusted care providers.
🧠 Amber Fischer
Element Behavioral Health. Presented on mental wellness, behavioral health resources, and the importance of early support and community connection for individuals and families.
✨ Jennifer Threadgill
Director, Goddard Schools. Discussed inclusive practices in education and the workplace, offering strategies for creating welcoming environments where all individuals can learn, contribute, and thrive.
March Event
Sunday, March 8 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village🧢 Tracey and Keisha Suggs
Co-Founders of Protect Your Skull. Shared perspectives on brain health, concussion awareness, and empowering individuals with disabilities by focusing on strengths, capabilities, and meaningful contribution.
🥗 Christiane Matey
Founder of Mint Nutrition. Presented evidence-based nutrition strategies and practical approaches to supporting the health, behavior, and well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
🌻 Heidi Karant
Founder of 210 Collective. Discussed creating meaningful employment, creative opportunities, and authentic community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through purpose-driven enterprise.
February Event
Sunday, Feb 8 | 2–4pm
West Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village☕ Amie Cennamo
Co-Owner of Bitty & Beau’s Coffee. Shared perspectives on inclusive employment, community belonging, and creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive.
💪 Jess Pinkerton
Co-Owner of Vitality Fitness. Presented on wellness, confidence-building, and the role of movement, mindset, and community support in helping children and families thrive.
Samantha Berg
Bright Beginnings. Discussed early childhood development, family support, and strategies for building strong foundations in learning, confidence, and social-emotional growth.
January Event
Sunday, January 11 | 2–4pm
Cox Mill Elementary✨ Tamara Ingold
ESA+ Advocate and Parent. Presented on North Carolina’s ESA+ program, helping families understand eligibility, funding opportunities, and resources available to support their children’s educational and developmental needs.
🥋Glenn Carter
Founder of Mati Clubs Martial Arts. Shared strategies for creating inclusive recreational programs that foster confidence, participation, and belonging for individuals of all abilities.
🍩 Lisa Cooper
Founder of Down for Doughnuts. Discussed inclusive employment, entrepreneurship, and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities through community-centered business.
December Event
Sunday, Dec 14 | 2–4pm
Cox Mill Elementary🎓 Michelle Lancaster
Executive Director of Julia’s Journey. Shared resources, advocacy strategies, and support services for families navigating medical complexity and caregiving challenges.
✨ Joanna VonStadden
Healing Works Therapy. Presented on emotional wellness, self-regulation, and therapeutic approaches that support children and families in the special needs community.
✨ Katrina Ketring, BSW
Social Worker. Shared practical guidance on navigating school systems, accessing services, and supporting positive family outcomes through every stage of life.
November Event
Sunday, Nov 9 | 2–4pm
Cox Mill ElementaryExecutive Director of Phillips Academy. Shared information about educational opportunities for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including the expansion of Phillips Academy and its impact on families in our region.