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
August Event
Sunday, August 09 | 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.
Aimee Combs, Executive Director of the Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC), North Carolina’s statewide Parent Training and Information Center.
Aimee has spent over a decade at ECAC, rising from Parent Educator to Executive Director, and previously oversaw all of ECAC’s grants serving families and children with disabilities. As the mother of a 26-year-old son with autism, she brings both professional expertise and deeply personal experience to her work connecting families with the resources and information they need — a mission that beautifully mirrors what KennedyStrong Foundation stands for.
September Event
Sunday, September 13 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton Village5325 Langford Ave NW, Concord, NC 28027
Guest Speakers Coming Soon!
Past Events
October Event
Sunday, October 11 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton VillageSeptember Event
Sunday, September 13 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton VillageAugust Event
Sunday, August 9 | 2–4pm
Rowan Cabarrus YMCA Afton VillageJuly 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.