Employee Spotlight: Demestrius Williams

When Demestrius Williams first walked through the doors of Alexander Youth Network in 2020, the world was in crisis. The pandemic had upended routines, strained communities, and left families and children navigating an uncertain reality. But for Demestrius, stepping into this work during a time of collective anxiety was not a coincidence. It was a […]
A Motherâs Breath: Jenny Harbinâs Story of Courage, Crisis, and the Lifeline She Found at Alexander Youth Network

When Jenny Harbin stepped into her childâs elementary school last October, she didnât know she was walking into a moment that would redefine her as a mother and as a human being. Her child, just 8 years old, was in crisis. The school was on lockdown. Paramedics and police were already there. And Jenny, heart […]
Employee Spotlight: Maryann Lao

Every organization has those rare individuals who quietly make everything better just by being there. The ones who never seek the spotlight but somehow shine the brightest. At Alexander Youth Network, that person is Maryann Lao. For the past ten years, Maryann has been more than just a team member. She has been the heartbeat […]
Hope Through a Parentâs Eyes: Dr. Gisèle Chandoâs Journey with Alexander Youth Network

For many families, navigating a childâs mental health journey can feel like a maze â daunting, emotional, and often isolating. But for Dr. Gisèle Chando, what began as a long and challenging road ultimately led to a place of hope, structure, and transformation through Alexander Youth Network. Nine years ago, Dr. Chandoâs world shifted when […]
Employee Spotlight: Gina Tipton

âTreat others how you expect to be treated. Help take care of others who canât take care of themselves.â For Gina Tipton, these arenât just words â theyâve been her way of life for over 30 years. As the Therapeutic Homes Program Manager and Compliance Specialist at Alexander Youth Network, Gina brings decades of experience, […]
New Charlotte PRTF Playground Ribbon Cutting

Weâre excited to share a special moment from our Charlotte Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF)! Our brand-new playground is officially open following a joyful ribbon-cutting celebrationâand the children are loving every minute of it. More than just a place to play, this thoughtfully designed space is a symbol of healing, hope, and growth. Itâs a […]
Returning Home: Welcoming Malisa Shuler as Executive Director of our Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility in Charlotte

At Alexander Youth Network, every chapter of our story is written by the passionate people who lead with heart and vision. Today, weâre elated to welcome Malisa Shuler, PsyD, as the new Executive Director of our Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) in Charlotte, NCâa familiar face stepping into a new and powerful role. This transition also gives us […]
Employee Spotlight: Rae Ellerbe

At Alexander Youth Network, we often say healing takes a villageâand people like Rae Ellerbe are the heart of that village. As our Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) Referral Coordination Manager, Rae is doing more than just a job. Sheâs answering a lifelong calling: to speak up for children who donât always have a voice, to fight […]
Employee Spotlight: Marcus Mickell

At Alexander Youth Network, our teamâs dedication transforms lives every day. Today, weâre proud to spotlight Marcus Mickell, whose journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the impact of compassionate care. Marcus began his career at Alexander in May 2021 as a Behavioral Health Counselor, where he worked directly with children facing significant emotional […]
A Legacy of Impact: Craig Bass Retires After 34 Years of Leadership at Alexander Youth Network

For more than three decades, Craig Bass has been at the helm of Alexander Youth Network, guiding the organization through tremendous growth, innovation, and impact. As he steps into retirement, we reflect not only on the legacy he leaves behind but also on the path forwardâone that continues to center on the needs of children […]