Executive Director // Kim Gibson

KGibson@disabilitylink.org ext.102

Dr. Kim Gibson, a committed leader and advocate, brings over three decades of experience in advancing disability rights, fostering diversity, and championing inclusion. Her impactful contributions to the Independent Living (IL) movement have left a lasting impression on the communities she has served.

Originally hailing from Idaho, Kim embarked on her journey in disability advocacy in 1988. Her path led her through Wyoming, Pennsylvania, and Texas before she assumed the role of Executive Director at disABILITY LINK in Georgia in August 2013. Driven by a passion for the IL philosophy, she has dedicated her career to expanding programs that prioritize diversity and inclusion.

Kim holds a Doctorate and Master’s degree in social work, a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and excellence. Her academic journey was marked by the prestigious Neta Kolasa Scholarship, recognizing her unwavering dedication to social justice.

As a devoted mother to her son, Dustin, and his wife, Pushee, Kim values family and the relationships that enrich her life. She recently welcomed a new service animal, Chipper, continuing her tradition of companionship after the passing of her cherished Charlie.

Throughout her career, Kim has been an ardent supporter of education, serving as a field instructor for individuals pursuing social work, educational, and occupational degrees. Her involvement in various community events, focused on suicide prevention, women’s rights, disability rights, and civil rights, underscores her commitment to advocacy and societal improvement.

Kim has received numerous accolades, including the 2014 National Council of Independent Living (NCIL) “Women’s Caucus Hall of Fame Award” and the 2023 Disability Inclusion Leadership Award from the National Diversity Council. Actively engaged in her community, Kim currently is serving as the President of APRIL (Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living), she continues to uplift organizations through policy advocacy, growth initiatives, and prioritizing the Independent Living Community and philosophy. Through APRIL’s peer-to-peer mentorship program, Kim is a peer mentor for other CILS (Centers for Independent Living). Kim is the past vice-chair of the Southeastern Center Directors Association and has served as a board member of NCIL (National Council of Independent Living), a board member of SILC of GA, and a variety of NCIL subcommittees. She also serves on several local boards and has, in the past, served on various advisory boards in Wyoming appointed by the Governor and boards in Pennsylvania.

Kim continues to work actively in the community, embodying the principles of the Independent Living Philosophy and tirelessly working towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Managers

Finance Director // Joseph Bryant

JBryant@disabilitylink.org ext.104

Joe Bryant is originally from Saint Louis, Missouri. Joe obtained a BS in Finance and an MBA. Prior to joining disABILITY LINK as Finance Director, he worked in the non profit sector for 25 years as a senior financial manager. Joe is praised at disABILITY LINK for his immeasurable patience, and we would not be the same without Joe!

He is married with four adult children. His hobbies include watching NFL games and listening to internet radio.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Joe Bryant smiling.

Program and Training Manager // Jake Key

JKey@disabilitylink.org ext.125

Jake is the Program and Training Manager at disABILITY LINK. He discovered at a young age that nothing makes him happier than bettering the lives of others. He has lived in north Georgia for 29 years and has a work history of landscaping / hardscaping. Jake went to college for Computer Programming and is passionate about assisting the disability community to better understand the digital world. Jake states “I have never worked a job like this where I wake up every morning excited to come to work.” His favorite activities include finding new music, meditating, and fiddling with new technology until he learns how it works. Jake is also a person with a disability, as he is Bipolar type 2.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Jake Key smiling.

Employment and Career Supervisor // Chrisie Lee

CLee@disabilitylink.org ext. 131

Christine Lee, known as Chrisie, joined disABILITY LINK in 2024 and currently serves as Employment and Career Supervisor, leading the employment department and working with the Ticket to work program. Chrisie attended Western Wyoming Community College and has extensive experience in providing services to individuals with disabilities, as a person with a disability, she is dedicated to making a positive impact. Additionally, she is an avid hockey fan, supporting her favorite team, the Vancouver Canucks.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Chrisie Lee smiling.

ICWP/Community Health Supervisor and Employment ILS // Katrina Parsons

KParsons@disabilitylink.org ext.127

Katrina Parsons is an ICWP/Community Health Supervisor, she has been in this position since March 2017 after being a volunteer and a job coach at disABILITY LINK. Katrina graduated from Agnes Scott College with a B.A. in Psychology and minor in French. In college, she did an internship in the Special Education program at a high school and volunteered at a summer camp for children with autism. Katrina became interested in working with the disability community after living with her grandfather and aunt that have disabilities. In her free time, Katrina enjoys volunteering with children’s programs at her church, watching family comedies and dance competition shows, adult coloring, and spending time with family.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Katrina Parsons smiling.

Director Of Youth Independent Living & P2P Programs // William Thomas

WThomas@disabilitylink.org ext.113

William currently serves as the Director of Youth Independent Living & P2P Programs at disABILITY LINK. He brings 40 years of experience working with youth in the areas of education and recreation.

William has worked for the YWCA, various school districts (public and private) in multiple states, Rutgers and NYACK University, and non-profit and public organizations. His work has focused on the planning, development, and implementation of educational/social programs for K-16 learners. He has served as a Summer Camp Supervisor, Mentor, Teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal, Chief School Administrator, and Professor.

William considers himself to be a family man. He enjoys gardening/landscaping, reading, sports, nature, and home improvement projects.

William’s educational background consists of a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics and Chemistry, a Master’s degree in Administration & Supervision, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. He is currently a Law student at EMORY University, pursuing the JM/JD degree with a concentration in Business/Corporate Law.

William has adopted this phrase to describe his experiences living with a disability: “Living with a disability continues to shape my perspective on resilience, adaptability, humility, and the importance of community support.”

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of William Thomas.

Quality Assurance & IL Coordinator // Tawanda Cargile

TCargile@disabilitylink.org ext. 116

Tawanda currently serves as the Quality Assurance and Independent Living Program Coordinator at disABILITY LINK. She has worked with individuals with disabilities for the last 25 years and is a person who identifies as one who lives with a disability, this field is especially near and dear to her heart.

At one time, Tawanda launched her own nonprofit that worked with the homeless and individuals with disabilities. She has worked as a Director over many programs for other organizations throughout her career. She once worked for disABILITY LINK but left to go and care for her parents until they transitioned from this life. She was extremely excited about coming back and working with this organization that she considers her happy home away from home.

Tawanda has a passion for a few things. She is an avid reader and prefers books over television. She is a serious sports fan with the NFL and Tennis being her favorite. She is also a diligent spiritual leader and works with various places in several states. She has written 3 stage plays that have been performed for the public eye and her books will be next. She is a dedicated mother and doting grandmother to the children and grandchildren who play such a pivotal role in her life.

Her education consists of 2 doctoral degrees, one in Organizational Leadership and an honorary one in Humanitarianism because of all that she has contributed to the community. She has also completed coursework in Grant Writing from the University of Georgia and Foundational Principles in Leadership from Harvard University.

She lives by the mantra, “Don’t ever stop being you, because someone else decided to be them.”, and she shares that with everyone she meets

Picture Description: Shown is a headshot of Tawanda Cargile smiling.

Volunteer and Administrative Support Supervisor // James Turner

JTurner@disabilitylink.org ext.108

James Turner is the Volunteer and Administrative Support Supervisor. James was born in Manhattan, New York and was raised in Hackensack New Jersey. James has Bachelor’s degree in Sociology as well as an Associate’s degree in Family & Children Services. James is a member of the community service Fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, the Sigma Iota Chapter of Valdosta State University.

James has lived in different parts of Georgia, both small and large. When he moved to the Atlanta area he was employed with Home Depot at their cooperate office. In 2013, he became a volunteer and then an intern at disABILITY LINK. In 2015, James joined the team as the Volunteer and Administrative Independent Living Specialist. He states “I love what I do.” He says that he teaches consumers what he learned along the way which he reports is to “Treat volunteering as a job because you never know what it will turn into”.

James reports he enjoys helping others working out, watching football go Denver broncos, and eating steak and seafood.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of James Turner smiling.

Staff

Health, Wellness, and Resource Specialist // Juanita Anderson

JAnderson@disabilitylink.org ext.112

Juanita Anderson is the Health, Wellness and Resource Specialist. Juanita is a native to Georgia. Juanita graduated from Gainesville high school before moving to Atlanta. She has a background in the medical field where she volunteers at Dekalb Medical and Georgia Peer Support providing administrative support. Juanita began as an intern at disABILITY LINK before accepting a position as first Executive Assistant and then the Health, Wellness & Resource Independent Living Specialist. High School . Some of her hobbies include Floral designing, interior decorating, dancing and traveling.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Juanita Anderson smiling.

Personnel and Finance Assistant // Felicia Banks

FBanks@disabilitylink.org ext.107

Felicia Banks is the Personnel and Finance Assistant. Felicia is a native of Atlanta and the fourth of five children. A graduate of the Atlanta Public School system, Felicia continued her education at Georgia State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Public and Urban Affairs (Concentration Area: Criminal Justice), and received a Paralegal Certificate from the Professional Career Development Institute. While attending Georgia State, Felicia worked in the Accounting Department of a major corporation. It was then that she discovered her interest in accounting and the challenges it brings. With more than 20 years of experience working in business of varying sizes, as well as private bookkeeping clients of her own, Felicia is excited to bring her knowledge and experience to disAbility Link. “There’s a lot going on here, and I am definitely excited and happy to be a part of it”.
Felicia’s interests include cooking, working out, sports (as a spectator), gardening, and aromatherapy. Her favorite activities are spending time with family, going to the beach and meditating. She has an entrepreneurial spirit that has led her to create several small businesses as well.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Felicia Banks smiling.

Intake, Discharge, and Data Management Independent Living Specialist // Teri Beard

TBeard@disabilitylink.org ext.128

Teri Beard is an Intake, Discharge, and Data Management Specialist hailing from Decatur, Georgia with a strong commitment to advocacy and a deep passion for empowering individuals within the disability community. Her expertise lies in streamlining intake and discharge processes, while also managing sensitive data to ensure seamless services. She is dedicated to raising awareness and creating positive change, consistently working to improve the lives of individuals.

Picture Description: Shown is a headshot of Teri Beard smiling.

Receptionist // Cindy Clark

CClark@disabilitylink.org ext. 100

Cindy joined disABILITY LINK in November 2021 as our dedicated Receptionist. As a lifelong resident of DeKalb County, Cindy brings a wealth of experience to her role. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from West Georgia College and has a diverse professional background, including valuable experience in the travel industry and at Emory University. Cindy’s friendly demeanor and extensive experience make her a wonderful first point of contact for our company.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Cindy smiling.

ICWP Case Manager and Community Health ILS // Shikha Desai

SDesai@disabilitylink.org ext.123

Shikha Desai is the COVID Pandemic Response Team Supervisor and ICWP Case Manager. Shikha enjoys watching movies, and hanging out with her friends and family during her spare time. Shikha was introduced to the National Federation of the Blind and to the independent living philosophy in 2012 when she received vigorous sleepshade training at the Louisiana Center for the Blind. She completed my core classes at Gwinnett Technical College and all of my credits transferred to Georgia State University where she received both her Bachelor and Master in Social work. She completed various internships: at the Center for Leadership in Disability from August 2017 to May 2018, disABILITY LINK from August 2018 to May 2019, and at Atlanta Regional Commission May 2019 to August 2019 through the American Association for People with Disabilities. She is currently on four Board of Directors. She currently studying for my License Master Social Work exam. She is a passionate and resilient self-starter with strong training and experience in social work.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Shikha Desai smiling.

ICWP Case Manager and Community ILS // Felix Eziakor

FEziakor@disabilitylink.org ext.105

Felix Eziakor is the ICWP Case Waiver Case Manager and Community Independent Living Specialist. Felix was born and raised Nigeria, West Africa. He graduated from University of New Orleans with a Degree in Economics after relocating from Nigeria to America. Felix has worked for both Departments of Family and Children Services in Louisiana and Georgia as an eligibility determination examiner and as a case manager investigating child abuse and neglect reports. Felix is excited to be ICWP case manager and to use his experience in customer and client care relationship to impact positively on our consumers.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Felix Eziakor smiling.

Housing and Transportation Independent Living Specialist // Sheryl Hales

SHales@disabilitylink.org ext. 115

Sheryl Hales is a finance and project management professional with a PhD in Business Administration, specializing in International Business. She serves as a Housing and Transportation Independent Living Specialist at disABILITY LINK, where she empowers individuals with disabilities to build independence through accessible housing and mobility resources. Sheryl enjoys singing, working out, reading, and traveling. Her personal motto is: “Don’t be afraid to start over; because it is in that leap to the unknown where you will find your wings.”

Picture Description: Picture above is a head shot of Sheryl Hales

Social Media and Computer Lab ILS// William Head

WHead@Disabilitylink.org ext. 126

William currently serves as the Social Media and Computer Lab Independent Living Specialist

at disABILITY LINK. He brings more than 20 years of experience in technology, teaching, and community support to the organization. Throughout his career, William has worked across various school districts and IT departments in multiple capacities.

His experience includes serving as a community coach for school-aged youth in Gwinnett and Jackson Counties, working as an IT Specialist and Technical Support Agent for several companies and providing training through his athletic training and consulting firm, AHead of the Game Training and Consulting. His diverse professional background reflects his commitment to empowering others through technology, education, and personal development.

William is divorced and the proud father of two daughters: Darby Charlene (15) and Laila Amiri (11). In his spare time, he enjoys music production, songwriting, reading, sports, cooking, and advocating for student-athletes.

William holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of William smiling.

Independent Living Specialist // Belinda Hodge

BeHodge@disabilitylink.org ext. 103

Belinda Hodge is an Independent Living Specialist at disABILITY LINK, empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and inclusion. With expertise in case management, consumer advocacy, and community engagement. Belinda is dedicated to advancing equal access and opportunity for all. A passionate community activist and entrepreneur. Combining leadership and compassion, she drives meaningful change and social impact.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Belinda smiling.

Employment and Career ILS // Megan Johnson

MJohnson@disabilitylink.org ext.110

Megan “Mo” Johnson is an Employment and Career Independent Living Specialist with disABILITY LINK. They are originally from Alabama and moved to Georgia two (2) years ago. They have a background in Education, teaching and administration. Mo has a Bachelors in Sociology, Montessori credentials, and a Master’s in Education. Mo lives with their wife, three (3) kids, and three (3) dogs. They have always advocated for their children who are all neurodivergent. Mo has also been a longtime advocate for DEIJ and LGBTQIA++ rights. In their free time they enjoy true crime podcasts, hiking, and reading

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Megan “Mo” Johnson smiling.

Disability Rights and Advocacy Independent Living Specialist // Einisia Jones

EJones@disabilitylink.org ext. 106

Einisia Jones is a person with a disability originally from Baltimore, Maryland. She is certified in PCA/CNA with over three years of experience in the field and also holds certifications in CPR, AED, and First Aid. Prior to joining disABILITY LINK as the disABILITY Rights and Advocacy Independent Living Specialist, she worked in the nonprofit sector providing PCA and CNA services. Einisia is praised at disABILITY LINK for her dedication and passion for advocacy, and the team would not be the same without her! In her free time, she enjoys running her own business doing nails and makeup, listening to wide variety of music, and hanging with friends and family.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Einisia with short red hair.

Volunteer Coordinator and Independent Living Specialist // Bex Kish

BKish@disabilitylink.org ext.118

Bex is our Volunteer Coordinator and Independent Living Specialist. They recently moved from Boston in August 2025, and graduated with their Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. As a person with PTSD, Bex is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for all individuals. They are passionate about educating, mentoring, and advocating for human rights, mental health, and overall wellness.

In their spare time, Bex likes to explore new places to eat, discover new music, and play video games.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Bex Kish

Employment and Career ILS // Helen Lewis

HLewis@disabilitylink.org ext.130

Helen Lewis enjoys helping anyone she come in contact with, and has 20+ years of experience working with those in need. Working with disABILITY LINK intersects deeply with her personal goals of helping others. She states “I am thankful to have the opportunity to work with this organization.”

Picture Description: Shown is a headshot of Helen Lewis smiling.

Youth IL & Peer Support Specialist // Jameson Listermann

JListerman@disabilitylink.org ext. 120

Jameson joined disABILITY LINK in 2025 and currently serves as a Youth IL & Peer Support Specialist, leading independent living skills, peer mentorship, advocacy, resource navigation, and system collaboration. With over 5 years of experience in hospitality, He is dedicated to empower youth to become the best versions of themselves.
He holds a Batchelor of Arts degree from Piedmont University.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Jameson smiling.

Information, Referral, & Independent Living Specialist// Dianne Mckenna

DMckenna@disabilitylink.org ext.122

Diane Mckenna strives to provide the best in customer service when opening new consumers. With 5 years of experience in Social Work, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can thrive. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University. She is originally from New Port Richey, Florida. But she moved to Georgia over 30 years ago.

Picture Description: Shown is a headshot of Diane Mckenna smiling.

Employment and Career ILS // Jalena Norzagaray

JNorzagaray@disabilitylink.org ext. 109

Jalena Norzagaray is originally from Tucson, Arizona. With over seven years of experience in social services, administrative coordination, and client support, Jalena has dedicated her career to empowering individuals with disabilities and helping them achieve greater independence and stability.

Before joining disABILITY LINK as an Employment and Career Independent Living Specialist, Jalena worked in social services roles supporting people with disabilities, seniors, and low-income families. Her background includes extensive experience in case management, intake coordination, and program support for nonprofit organizations. She is recognized for her compassion, attention to detail, and ability to connect individuals to meaningful community resources.

At disABILITY LINK, Jalena continues to make a positive impact by facilitating workshops, job fairs, and employment support programs that promote self-sufficiency and inclusion.

Outside of work, Jalena enjoys being creative, designing clothing, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Jalena smiling outdoors.

AT, Deaf-Blind and Housing ILS // Violet Rock

VRock@disabilitylink.org ext. 133

Violet Rock is the Assistive Technology, Deaf-Blind, Community Health Connector Independent Living Specialist
Violet supports our efforts to connect individuals with disabilities to essential services and resources. With a strong commitment to equity and community care, she brings a background in community organizing and outreach. Violet is passionate about fostering inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and independence.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Violet smiling.

Executive Assistant & Development Marketing Specialist // Cinque Singleton

CSingleton@disabilitylink.org ext. 129

Cinque Singleton is the Social Media and Outreach Independent Living Specialist. Cinque is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities and a skilled social media strategist. With over eight years of experience in marketing and branding, Cinque has a proven track record of creating engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences.

As the Social Media and Outreach ILS at disABILITY Link, Cinque leverages social media to connect individuals with resources, build community, and advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Cinque is skilled in content creation, social media strategy, and community management. He is also a strong communicator and collaborator. Cinque is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Cinque Singleton smiling while wearing a suit.

Bookkeeper and Personnel Support Specialist // Dipu Thakor

DThakor@disabilitylink.org ext. 104

Dipu is the Bookkeeper and Personnel Support Specialist at disABILITY LINK. She has more than four years of experience working with non-profit organizations as an accountant. Born in India, she came to the United States in 2014 and lived in Massachusetts until moving to Georgia in 2025, when she joined disABILITY LINK.

Dipu earned a Master’s in Accounting and Taxation as well as an MBA in Finance. As a parent of a daughter with autism, she brings a personal understanding of disability that deepens her connection to our mission of supporting independence and inclusion. Her favorite activities include listening to Hindi music, watching movies, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Dipu outdoors.

Independent Living and Outreach Specialist // Kendra White

KWhite@disabilitylink.org ext.114

Kendra White is the Independent Living and Outreach Specialist with over 20 years of experience in various government roles. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work, driven by a passion for collaboration and community engagement. Kendra excels in environments where teamwork and making a positive impact are at the forefront. Her extensive background in public service provides her with unique insights that help shape solutions benefiting both individuals and the larger community. Additionally, Kendra’s personal experience as a person with a disability, along with having family members with disabilities, deepens her ability to offer meaningful peer support.

Picture Description: Shown is a headshot of Kendra White smiling.

Community ILS Casual // Renee Shakir

RShakir@disabilitylink.org

Renee is the Community Independent Living Specialist with a focus on Nursing Home Transitions. She relocated from Buffalo, New York in 1999. Prior to relocating to Georgia, She worked in many positions where she provided services to individuals with disability. Combined she has over 20 years of experience working with people with disabilities from entry level positions to management positions.

She enjoys linedancing, shopping and spending time with family. Her passion is feeding the homeless and mentoring teen moms.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Renee Shakir smiling in her office.

Janitorial and Maintenance Specialist // Vibert Lawson

Vibert Lawson is the Custodial and Maintenance Specialist at disABILITY LINK. Originally from South America, he moved to the US at the age of nine. He continued and completed his education and graduated from Brooklyn Comprehensive Night High School in 2000, in Brooklyn NY. He joined the military the following year and continued his education taking some college courses at night. His work background includes a variety of retail and customer service positions. He started attending the LEAPS classes in 2016, then became an intern before being offered his current position in 2017.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Vibert Lawson smiling against a civil rights banner.

Disability Rights and Peer Support Trainers

Disability Rights & Peer Support Training Advocate // Linda Pogue

LPogue@disabilitylink.org ext.128

Linda has a lifetime of relationships with people with disabilities and a 40+ year career of supporting people with disabilities to…live in the community; advocate within service, legal and healthcare systems; develop leaderships skills and opportunities; enhance communication skills; become peer supporters; be recognized as the fully contributing citizens we are; and promote our rights through the Independent Living Movement.

Picture Description: Picture above is a headshot of Linda Pogue smiling.