Coffee & Connections
Monthly Series
2nd Sunday of Every Month - 2-4 PM
This will be a fun and welcoming gathering of parents and caregivers raising and supporting kids with disabilities! ALL are welcome! Kids ages 5+ of all abilities are welcome.
Parents/Caregivers can expect:
- Ice breaker + Mindful warm-up
- Engaging conversation and up to three (3) guest speakers: One inspiring family, One resource, One local area business.
- Kids ages 5 and above of all abilities will be checked in with KSF Volunteers for age-appropriate activities and a healthy gluten-free snack.
Bring a snack to share with the other caregivers if you’d like (not required) – just come ready to connect, laugh, and recharge!
Please register all kids 48 hours in advance here>
Upcoming Events
June Event
Sunday, June 14 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
We were thrilled to welcome an incredible lineup of guest speakers at our June Coffee & Connections meeting!
Patrice Gibson
Executive Director, Shining Hope Farms
Patrice leads transformative work at the intersection of agriculture, healing, and community. Through equine-assisted services, Shining Hope Farms helps individuals of all abilities build confidence, connection, and personal growth. Have you ever wondered why horses are so effective in therapeutic settings? Come learn more.
Mandy Thacker
South Campus Faculty Lead, S.O.A.R. (Skills, Opportunity, Awareness, Readiness) Program, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
The S.O.A.R. program helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build independence, confidence, life skills, and meaningful community connections. Through her work, Mandy has helped countless individuals discover their strengths and prepare for greater participation in their communities. She will share valuable insights about the program, opportunities available through Rowan-Cabarrus, and practical guidance for families navigating the transition to adulthood.
Dawn Hincken
Dawn serves as an instructor with the S.O.A.R. Program, where she teaches culinary and customer service skills through hands-on experience in the campus Bistro. Her work helps students develop real-world job skills while building confidence and independence.
July Event
Sunday, July 12 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
Guest Speakers Coming Soon!
August Event
Sunday, July 12 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
Ellen Bertanzetti, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Ellen is based here in Charlotte and is literally in the business of rewiring the brain for the better. As a neurotherapist and neurofeedback specialist, Ellen uses cutting-edge brain training techniques to help clients of all ages overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, and sleep challenges. Ellen will provide answers to questions about brain mapping, MNRI, and offer recommendations for providers.
Past Events
June Event
Sunday, June 14 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton VillageMay 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✨ Lisa Esarey
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.