Meet Our Most Valuable Employee
Living Unlimited employs incredible staff and we want to share with you some of our best. Each quarter one employee is recognized for outstanding performance and effort by fellow employees. Although we believe that all of our staff are top notch, we want to focus on one person who has gained the respect of their peers. Please see below for our newest recognized employee!
It is time to announce our newest most valuable employee. We are happy to announce Amber Laylon, Rehabilitation Specialist, as our newest MVE. Amber started with Living Unlimited in 2017 and has become one of the best role models for the company. She completed training in both the Supported Employment and Customized Employment and plans to pursue becoming a Certified Brain Injury Specialist.
Amber was noted as being one of the most positive employees in Living Unlimited history and this trait is conveyed in her work with clients, their supports, funders and of course her peers. She handles all situations with the utmost professionalism and modifies her approach to service based on each individual with whom she works. This approach and individuality of services allows her clients to excel and meet goals. Amber works long hours, even filling in for other regions on weekends and evenings and never expects anything in return.
Below are some comments made by Amber's peers:
"Amber is always willing to help."
"She provides assistance for questions related to services"
" Amber will help with any question, no matter how small"
"She is encouraging when I have been discouraged"
"She is selfless!"
Amber is easy to get along with"
"She always goes the extra mile"
"Amber is a good role model to other employees"
Past Most Valuable Employees: MaryBell Rosario, Fonda Shupper, Emily McNiff, Laura Slagle, Melinda George, Kendra Menth, Alison McClure, Josh Stevenson, Krystal WInkelman, JaTanna Parrish (twice), Lauren Dorosh
Meet Our Staff
Teresa Stickle - Living Unlimited Inc. President
Teresa “Terrie” Stickle graduated from Elizabethtown College where she received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Terrie has been in the field of vocational rehabilitation since 1987 and has been with Living Unlimited Inc since 1990. Terrie began her Living Unlimited career as a Regional Manger from 1990 to 2009 and was responsible for managing the home and community and vocational services in the South Region. During her tenure as manager, the region grew in geographical areas served and Terrie developed programming to better meet the needs of the people served. In addition to serving as President of Living Unlimited, Terrie also provides consultation to patients of the Hemophilia Center located at the Hershey Medical Center and is a certified vocational evaluator. In her spare time, Terrie enjoys spending time with family, traveling, boating and spending time at the beach.
Management Staff
Lauren Rowe - Music Therapy Director
Lauren Rowe, MT-BC came to Living Unlimited in January 2009 as a Music Therapist and was promoted to the manager in December 2010. Originally from Sunbury, PA, she is a graduate of Elizabethtown College and completed her internship at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, NC. Lauren enjoys working with people of all ages and abilities, especially kids. When not working, she enjoys spending time at home with her husband and daughters. In her free time she also enjoys being crafty, playing guitar and cooking!
Melissa Baney - Program Director
Melissa Baney joined the Living Unlimited program's Harrisburg office in 2002 as a Rehabilitation Specialist and has also served as the program specialist. Melissa has also led the vocational portion of the Vocational Community Adjustment Program (VCAP). She became a regional manager in April 2008. In 2013, Melissa left the program to pursue other endeavors and relocated to Florida in which she worked for the state in the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Melissa recently returned to Pennsylvania and rejoined Living Unlimited as the South Regional Director. Melissa received her bachelor's degree from York College of Pennsylvania in Therapeutic and Community Recreation Administration. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys spending time with her friends and her 3 rescue dogs.
Laura Slagle - South Case Manager
Laura Slagle began her Living Unlimited career as a Rehabilitation Specialist in December 2015 before moving into management in October 2016. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work with a minor is Sport Coaching from McDaniel College. She received a Master’s in Social work from Shippensburg University in 2014. In her spare time, Laura enjoys spending time with her nephews as well as playing softball and watching sports on TV.
Alison McClure - South Case Manager
Alison McClure joined Living Unlimited in 2014. Previously, she has worked with teenagers in a residential facility in Mechanicsburg. She had enjoyed making the transition from a Youth Care Worker to a Rehabilitation Specialist (RS) and is looking forward to working with others towards their goals. Alison was promoted to Case Manager in August 2017 after demonstrating effective skills as an RS. She is also certified in Customized Employment. Alison lives in Camp Hill with her husband, two children; two parakeets and Siberian husky. She is a 2010 graduate from Harrisburg Area Community College with a degree in Social Services. Alison plays the bagpipes, enjoys doing paper crafts, managing the family Photography Business, classic literature and her Scottish heritage.
Alison McClure joined Living Unlimited in 2014. Previously, she has worked with teenagers in a residential facility in Mechanicsburg. She had enjoyed making the transition from a Youth Care Worker to a Rehabilitation Specialist (RS) and is looking forward to working with others towards their goals. Alison was promoted to Case Manager in August 2017 after demonstrating effective skills as an RS. She is also certified in Customized Employment. Alison lives in Camp Hill with her husband, two children; two parakeets and Siberian husky. She is a 2010 graduate from Harrisburg Area Community College with a degree in Social Services. Alison plays the bagpipes, enjoys doing paper crafts, managing the family Photography Business, classic literature and her Scottish heritage.
Zinah Husam - North Case Manager
Zinah Husam has a Bachelors Degree in Psychology obtained from Bloomsburg University. She started working with Living Unlimited, Inc. in July 2013 as a Rehabilitation Specialist. She was promoted to Case Manager in August 2017 and has many years of working with people who have disabilities. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, gardening, watching movie, and do it your self projects around her home. Zinah is also certified in customized employment services.
Marissa Rolley - North Case Manager
Marissa Rolley, graduated from Lock Haven University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. In June 2014 Marissa joined the North Region of Living Unlimited Inc. as a Rehabilitation Specialist. Marissa is also a certified customized employment specialist. Marissa was promoted to Case Manager in September 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, skydiving, and participating in a variety of outdoor activities.
Matt Dewey - Northeast Case Manager
Matt Dewey, joined the Living Unlimited team in August, 2018. He is a native of Luzerne County and graduated from King's College with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. Matt has held multiple positions in the social service field, assisting a variety of individuals with using their strengths and abilities to gain successful outcomes and more fulfilling lives. For the past 6 years, Matt has managed an Evidence Based, Supported Employment Program for a Behavioral Health Agency in Maryland. He is also credentialed as a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner. Matt is excited life brought him back to PA and he looks forward to using his own personal strengths and abilities to orchestrate positive change to the individuals and community stakeholders we serve. In his spare time, Matt cherishes his time with his daughter, running and cheering on his preferred sports teams.
Ashley Howson - Music Therapy Manager
Ashley Howson MT-BC,, joined the Living Unlimited team in June 2016. She graduated from Elizabethtown College with a Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy and a minor in Psychology. She completed her internship at Banner – University Medical Center, working with a variety of medical diagnoses, in Phoenix, Arizona. Ashley was promoted to MT Music Therapy Manager in June of 2018. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys cooking, canoeing, and painting.
Administrative Staff
Brenda Brownewell-Starner - Executive Secretary
Brenda Brownewell-Starner is the Executive Secretary for Living Unlimited, Inc. where she began her employment in 2015. Brenda has been in the Administrative Field since 1987 and has received numerous professional credentials. Brenda attended Harrisburg Area Community College for four years where she earned her Associates Degree as a Cardiovascular Technician. Brenda was on the Dean’s list each semester throughout those four years.
Brenda completed her certification in Medical Billing and Healthcare Documentation through At-Home Professions, an on-line institute, with honors. Brenda is working towards her Bachlors Degree in Healthcare Management and Administration through Immaculata University.
Brenda completed her certification in Medical Billing and Healthcare Documentation through At-Home Professions, an on-line institute, with honors. Brenda is working towards her Bachlors Degree in Healthcare Management and Administration through Immaculata University.
Fonda Shupper - Administrative Secretary
Fonda Shupper
came to Living
Unlimited with many years of experience working with individuals with
disabilities. She began working at Living Unlimited in
December 2008 as a Rehabilitation Specialist before transferring in October 2014 to Administrative
Assistant. Using her
past job experience she helps to train and guide new staff with all of the variety
of paperwork requirements upon joining our team. When she is not at work she
can be found at home in Carlisle with her husband of over 15 years. In her spare time she enjoys reading, solving
Sudoku puzzles and quilting.
Melinda George- Administrative Secretary
Melinda George began working for Living Unlimited Inc. in November 2014. She graduated from South Hills School of Business & Technology in September 2014 with an Associates Degree. She enjoys assisting others and tutored students while attending school. In her spare time, she spends time with her family and her black cat Miya.
Music Therapists
Krystal WinkelmanKrystal Winkelman, MT-BC, came to Living Unlimited in February 2009 as a Music Therapist. She graduated from Mansfield University and completed her internship at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA. She received her Masters of Human Services from Liberty University in Lynchburg,VA. When not working, Krystal enjoys teaching percussion and spending time with her family.
Andrea HornerAndrea Horner, MT-BC, came to Living Unlimited in August 2009. She is a 2009 graduate of Seton Hill University, in Greensburg, PA. Andrea completed her internship at Matheny Medical and Educational Center in Peapack, NJ, where she gained experience working with clients of all ages with various physical and developmental disabilities. Outside of work, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and singing on her church choir.
Sarah WashingerSarah C Washinger, BM, MT-BC graduated from Mansfield University in 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy as well as a minor in Psychology of Human Development. She completed her internship under the supervision of Janice Stouffer at Hershey Medical Center, where she worked with a diverse caseload. Sarah is currently board certified through the Certification Board for Music Therapists as well as a member of American Music Therapy Association. Sarah began her career with Living Unlimited in May of 2010 as a full-time music therapist. Additionally, Sarah is a member of Pennsylvania Music Teachers Association and has a small piano studio in her home.
Kelsy Purnell
Kelsy Purnell, MT-BC, started her professional career at Living Unlimited in July 2013. She completed her Bachelor's degree in music at West Chester University and coursework for certification at Immaculata University. Kelsy interned at Penn State Hershey Medical Center working with clients of all ages and with various diagnosis. Kelsy is board certified through the Certification Board for Music Therapists. While not at work, Kelsy enjoys many hobbies such as crafting, baking, photography, and singing.
Joshua StevensonJosh Stevenson, MT-BC - Came to Living Unlimited in April of 2014. He graduated from Elizabethtown College in 2013 with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy and a minor in general psychology. Prior to working at Living Unlimited, Josh completed his internship at Springfield Hospital Center, serving individuals with various mental health needs. While not at work, Josh enjoys spending time with friends and family as well as being outdoors. His hobbies include playing guitar, biking, and skiing
Cassandra SchoffstallCassandra Schoffstall, MT-BC, began her professional career at Living Unlimited in March of 2014. She graduated from Elizabethtown College in 2013 with a Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy and a minor in Cognitive Neuroscience. She completed her internship at Lighthouse Neurological Rehabilitation Center working with adults with Traumatic Brain Injury and children with Autism. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Music Therapy with a concentration in Neurological Music Therapy. Outside of work, Cassy likes to spend time with her family outdoors biking, running, playing Frisbee and gardening.
Stephanie StraussStephanie Strauss, MT-BC, began her professional career with Living Unlimited in 2015. A 2014 graduate of Elizabethtown College, she completed her internship at Matheny Medical and Educational Center where she worked with individuals with medically complex developmental disabilities. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, music, and reading.
Brooke Wright
Brooke Wright MT-BC, started her professional career at Living Unlimited in May 2017. She is a 2016 graduate of Temple University, in Philadelphia, PA. Brooke completed her internship at Masonic Villages of Elizabethtown PA, where she gained experience working with older adults, specifically those diagnosed with varying stages of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Brooke is currently board certified through the Certification Board for Music Therapists. She enjoys spending time with family, music, and reading.
Vocational Staff
Robert OttoRobert Otto has worked with Living Unlimited since March 2016. He graduated from Elizabethtown College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music. Rob acts as an advisor for Carlisle Chapter order of DeMolay, a youth group focused on service and leadership development. With DeMolay, Rob has taught courses at nationwide leadership conferences focused on planning and basic leadership skills. Throughout his life Rob has been very involved in theater and music. In his free time, Rob enjoys playing guitar and swing dancing.
Shay Cramer-Peters
Shay Cramer joined the North Region of Living Unlimited Inc. as a part-time Rehabilitation Specialist in June 2017. She graduates from The Pennsylvania State University in August 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. In her free time, Shay enjoys spending time with her family, looking for antiques, and running with her dogs.
Jeannine Edris
Jeannine Edris graduated from Messiah College in 2005 and earned a Bachelors in Psychology. She has a background in behavioral health and worked in the mental health field for 11 years before starting at Living Unlimited in 2017. Her hobbies include running, listening to music, watching movies, playing with my niece, taking care of my plants, and cooking.
Lauren Dorosh
Lauren Dorosh joined the North Region of Living Unlimited Inc. as a Rehabilitation Specialist in March 2018. She graduated from Mansfield University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. After graduating, she worked as a Therapeutic Staff Support for a little over two years. Lauren was a member of the Mansfield University Swim Team and Phi Alpha Honor Society, for Social Work. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys going to the gym, spending time with her boyfriend and dog, and being outdoors.
Jordan JonesJordan Jones joined Living Unlimited in July of 2018 as a Rehabilitation Specialist. He graduated from Liberty University in 2017 with a degree in Kinesiology. In his free time, Jordan enjoys spending time with his friends and family, playing and watching sports as well as spending time in the great outdoors.
Marcus SypeckMarcus Sypeck joined Living Unlimited in January of 2019 as a Rehabilitation Specialist in the Northeast Region. He is originally from Hazleton, and graduated summa cum laude from King's College in 2016 with a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy, accompanied by an ethics minor. He previously worked as a blended case manager before joining Living Unlimited. He firmly believes that his purpose in life is to help others. In his spare time, he plays hockey, attends concerts, and spends time with friends and family.
Karissa RhodesKarissa Rhodes joined the Living Unlimited team in November, 2018 as a Music Therapist and Rehabilitation Specialist. She graduated from Shenandoah University with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy. Karissa performed her music therapy internship at the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters on the Hematologic & Oncology unit located in Norfolk Virginia. Karissa also has previous experience in an outpatient neurology clinic working with recovering stroke patients on speech goals and motor skills. In addition, Karissa worked on memory, reminiscence, and arousal in a group setting at a nursing home as well as participating in a pulmonary group where breathing techniques were addressed. An interesting fact about Karissa is that she attended a world congress of music therapy in Tsukuba, Japan in the summer of 2017, where she presented an early childhood intervention song that she wrote with Dr. Petra Kern.
Chelsea EisenhuthChelsea Eisenhuth joined Living Unlimited in February 2019 as a Rehabilitation Specialist. She graduated from Mount Aloysius College in May of 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Specialization in Substance Abuse Counseling. her free time Chelsea enjoys cooking, riding her bike, walking her dog, and engaging in various outdoor activities all year round.
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Vocational Staff
Nancy PeppermanNancy Pepperman attended Jersey Shore Area High School, Jersey Shore, PA and in 1989 she was in the last class to graduate from the former Williamsport Area Community College, which is now Penn College. Nancy has an Associates Degree in Human Services and has been employed by the North Region of Living Unlimited, Inc. as a Rehabilitation Assistant since 2000. Nancy volunteers as an EMT, as does her two grown children, for Woodward Township Volunteer Fire Company.
Angela WeaverAng Weaver joined the Living Unlimited Staff in July 2009 as a Rehab Specialist. She graduated from Susquehanna University with a BA in Studio Art. Ang enjoys running, painting, playing guitar, and good coffee. Ang recently completed training and testing to become a certified brain injury specialist.
Valerie DavisVal Davis is a graduate of Shippensburg University with majors in Psychology and Sociology as well as a minor in Social Welfare. In September of 2012, she returned to the Living Unlimited as a Rehabilitation Specialist. She first worked as a Rehabilitation Specialist for the Living Unlimited Program from 1988 until 2008. Her other experience includes acting as a service coordinator for the Act 150 Program and the Attendant Care Waiver at the Center for Independent Living of Central PA from 2008 until 2012. Some of Val's favorite hobbies include counted cross stitch, 3D decoupage, and decorating her home. Val's goal in life is to grow in her spiritual life and to continue to serve people as long as she can. Val recently completed training and testing to become a certified brain injury specialist.
James GiacobbeJames Giacobbe has been a Rehab Specialist with Living Unlimited as of January 2013. He graduated from Wilkes University in 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. He most recently was employed in a group home where he had a role in helping adolescents achieve independence and permanent living arrangements. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, listening to music and spending quality time with friends and family. James recently completed training and testing to become a certified brain injury specialist as well as becoming certified in customized employment services.
Amber Laylon
Amber Laylon graduated from Lock Haven University with a Bachelor's degree in Disability and Community Services. Amber completed her Internship at Hope Enterprises working with individuals with disabilities. In January 2017, Amber joined Living Unlimited as a Rehabilitation Specialist. In her spare time she likes to workout, go hiking, and take her dog for walks.
JaTanna Parrish
JaTanna (Seyler) Parrish a graduate of Shippensburg University with a degree in middle level teaching with a concentration in mathematics. JaTanna has worked in group homes for the previous three years. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her husband and doing arts and crafts.
MaryBell Rosario
Mary Bell Rosario has been working with Living Unlimited since August of 2006. She was a Secretary for over 30 years, and was the Administrative Assistant for Living Unlimited for 9 years. Mary Bell moved on to be a Rehab Specialist. Mary Bell enjoys working with people and helping them with any needs they may have. She is an active member of her church organization. She is an ordained minister, a youth counselor, a teacher and enjoys praying and ministering to people. Mary Bell earned her Theology Degree in the year 2000. She completed her Associate Degree in Psychology from Axia College of University of Phoenix in November of 2009. Mary Bell enjoys spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren.
Chris Morrison
Chris Morrison came to Living Unlimited in August 2017. He graduated from Marywood University in 2015 and received his Bachelor's degree in music therapy. After graduating, he was an intern for Monroe BOCES #1 in Rochester, NY where he worked with children and adolescents with various physical and mental health needs. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing music and spending time outdoors.
Julia MacIntyre
Julia MacIntyre joined the Living Unlimited team on January 23, 2019. She graduated in May 2018 from Harrisburg Area Community College with an associate's degree in Early Childhood- Elementary Education. She is currently attending Millersville University to receive a dual bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education & Early Childhood Special Education. She is extremely passionate about helping, advocating, and normalizing society's view on those who have special needs. Julia is also passionate about animals and loves all creatures. She has a black lab/golden retriever mix named Trafford and they are the best of friends.
Vincent DangolovichVincent Dangolovich III was thrilled to join the Living Unlimited Inc. family as a rehabilitation specialist in February 2019. Having earned a Master’s of Communication from Penn State, Vincent sought to find a career with greater meaning and fulfillment, leading him to his current position. Vincent’s eclectic background includes work as a retailer, actor, portrait photographer, improvisation performer, and even an multi-award winning close-up magician. It is his belief that all his experiences and learning prepared him for the engaging and varied work with LU. When not working or performing, Vincent enjoys great food, ballroom dance, and Pai Lum Kung Fu. He wishes to thank his friend, music therapist Kelsy, for the great tip on LU’s positions and life changing work.
Trish KirbyTrish Kirby joined Living Unlimited in March 2019 as rehabilitation specialist for the south region. She received a Bachelor’s degree in psychology at York College of PA in 2007. Patricia’s background includes working with people diagnosed with various mental health disorders. She is from Philadelphia and enjoys watching Philly sports in her free time. Patricia also enjoys spending time with her toddler and pup, playing guitar, and soaking up the sunshine.
Ashlee AlliodAshlee Alliod has joined Living Unlimited in June 2019 as a Rehabilitation Specialist. She graduated from Millersville University with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. Ashlee has a background in nursing (CNA), CYS, foster care, and as a correctional officer. Ashlee came to Living Unlimited because she was looking for a career with meaning and positivity. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her fiance and fur babies, gardening, reading, and the occasional gym visit.
Jennifer GeimanJennifer Geiman joined Living Unlimited in June 2019 as a Rehabilitation Specialist. She graduated from Harrisburg Area Community College with an Associate's Degree in Mathematics Education, then continued on to receive a Bachelor's Degree from Penn State University in Computer Science. She was most recently employed by a Behavioral Health EHR company where she worked with Behavioral Health Providers to analyze current processes, configure and test their EHR, provide training to staff as well as provide on-going support, account management and executive leadership within the company. The life and death of Jennifer's Aunt Betty instilled a passion for advocacy in Jennifer and inspired a career change to more directly serve, mentor and advocate for others. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys spending time with family, road trips, camping, time at the lake, taking walks, enjoying sunsets and giving out lots of Free Hugs.
Wendy WarnerWendy Warner joined Living Unlimited a Rehabilitation Specialist Unlimited in May 2019. She graduated from Mansfield University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree, specifically Special Education. Wendy has 24 years of working with people with disabilities in specialized camps, group homes, Life Sharing, and community support settings. In addition, Wendy has 2 very close relatives with disabilities who she enjoys caring spending time and caring for. Working in a vocational setting is new challenge and is currently working on becoming certified to provide Supported Employment service for OVR. During Wendy’s free time she enjoys spending time with her family, hanging out with her French bulldog and rescue cat, reading, watching movies, and enjoying time in nature.
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