Meet The Team
Lisa - Founder
Lisa is a special needs mom of a 23-year-old daughter, Clara, with complex needs, including a genetic disorder, autism, and mobility issues. Her start to life was so difficult, spending her first 16 months in hospital, that Clara's care quickly became overwhelming. Once home, Lisa spent years researching to figure out how to help Clara, despite professionals telling her to let her die, and later, when she didn't, that Clara would be in and out of hospitals all her life.
None of that came true.
As both a certified clinical (holistic) nutritionist and high performance coach, along with over 20 years in management with the federal public service, Lisa uses her understanding of the human body and mind along with her leadership skills and passion for living life to the fullest to empower others to step into who they really are.
She is the founder of Special Needs Experience (SNEX.Life) and the Constipation Relief Program for Kids (CRaP4Kids.com). When not working, writing, and advocating for the rights of those who are differently abled, Lisa enjoys hanging out with Clara, her sister Claudia and their two dogs, and finds peace and rejuvenation at the cottage.
Stephanie - "Action Jackson" Extraordinaire!
Stephanie loves connecting with others, sharing experiences, and learning from every opportunity. She finds real joy in spending time with people, building community, and sharing a good laugh—so if you’ve got a good joke, she’s all ears!
She is also passionate about inclusion and creating welcoming spaces where people feel heard and valued. Through her work in respite care, Stephanie has developed a deep understanding of different communication styles, sensory needs, and the importance of patience, empathy, and advocacy. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to building spaces where everyone can participate in their own way and feel a true sense of belonging.
Outside of her work, Stephanie has a degree in musical theatre and loves performance, baking, thrifting, and spending time with family and friends. She grew up in Alberta and moved to the big city, where her love of adventure continues to grow. She is passionate about travel and has already visited 11 countries, with many more still on her list. Whether on stage, in community spaces, or exploring the world, Stephanie brings warmth, creativity, and excitement into everything she does.
Meet Our Hangout Leaders
Christy
"I’m a teacher. I started within this field because I just love being around people and I believe that everyone deserves to feel a sense of belonging! I love crafting, hiking and playing board games. I love travelling and have explored over 20 different countries in the past 3 years!"
Abigail
"I'm a lawyer. I have worked and volunteered with adults with special needs in different roles. Now that I am living in Southern Ontario again, I have been excited to connect more with the community in my area. I have a personal connection to the Courage Culture Club, so when I was approached about joining to help with events, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to strengthen my ties to my community, meet new people, and support these events which are so important (and fun!). I love to dance, read, play cards, and spend time with loved ones. I love going to concerts to see live music. I've lost count over the years but know that I have been to well over 50!"
Meet Our CCC Volunteers
Matteo
Matteo Esposito is a Playwright, Singer/Songwriter, Set/Props Designer, Magician, Actor and Screenwriter from Oakville, Ontario, Canada with autism.
Matteo's play which is about autism went to New York City in 2023, receiving sold out houses by the end of the eight show run, recouping the investments in record time!
Matteo is also working on a T.V series. Called The Voice Inside, the series is aimed at youth, and follows the story of Mathew Spintelli, who graduates Spec-Ed without a Diploma nor a Certificate of achievement, to taking a chance on going to adult school and succeeding!
Please follow his journey on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@performingarts-matteoesposito?si=pnlPDZAozICstBPa
"Why is there a lack of Unconditional Love, Empathy and Compassion among other things in this world that we live in? The answer is more complex than most people think it is!" - Matteo Esposito
Playwright and Set Designer of Sorting It Out (NYC, 2023).
