Employee Spotlight: Leonard Shinhoster, Our New Vice President of Program Operations

“I treat everyone with respect, not because of who they are, but because of who I am. You never know what someone’s carrying, and kindness might be the only calm they feel all day.” For 25 years, Leonard Shinhoster has been a steady, compassionate presence at Alexander Youth Network. His leadership is more than a […]
Employee Spotlight: Jessica Hofstetter, Our New Family Peer Support Supervisor

“Stand, even if your knees are shaking.” These words reflect the heart of our newest program at Alexander Youth Network and the strength behind the person leading it. We’re proud to introduce Jessica Hofstetter as our Family Peer Support Supervisor, a role created to launch and lead our Family Peer Support Program, made possible through a […]
A Mother’s Breath: Jenny Harbin’s Story of Courage, Crisis, and the Lifeline She Found at Alexander Youth Network

When Jenny Harbin stepped into her child’s elementary school last October, she didn’t 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 […]
Hope Through a Parent’s Eyes: Dr. Gisèle Chando’s Journey with Alexander Youth Network

For many families, navigating a child’s mental health journey can feel like a maze — 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. Chando’s world shifted when […]
Happy Anniversary Tyrone Johnson!

Tyrone Johnson Celebrates 10 Years at Alexander Youth Network! Happy 10-year “AYN*niversary” to Information Technology Network Administrator, Tyrone Johnson! Tyrone started working at Alexander after moving from Dallas, TX. While he was working another job, he saw a posting for an IT position at Alexander. “I did a little research on the agency for the […]
Happy Anniversary Melvin Askew!

Melvin Askew Celebrates 21Years at Alexander Youth Network! Happy 21-year “AYN*niversary” to Charlotte Behavioral Health Counselor, Melvin Askew! Melvin began working for Alexander to take on a new challenge of working with youth who had behavioral issues to help guide then in the right direction. “I love seeing the transition, growth, and improvements a child […]
5 Simple Tips to Help Your Children Through Holiday Stress

The holidays can be filled with joy, fun, and family time, but for some children, it can also bring stress and anxiety with changes in routines and high expectations. As parents and caregivers, you play a crucial role in providing stability and support during this time. Here are five easy-to-follow tips to help you navigate […]
5 Essential Mental Health Tips for Parents: Supporting Your Child’s Well-Being

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more crucial than ever to prioritize your child’s mental health. As parents, you play a significant role in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for your children to thrive. Here are five essential mental health tips for parents to help you better understand and support your child’s emotional well-being. 1. […]
Happy Anniversary Ashley Conrad!

Ashley Conrad, President and Chief Operating Officer, Celebrates 16 Years at Alexander Youth Network!, Happy 16-year “AYN*niversary” to our President and COO, Ashley Conrad, MSL. Ashley first joined Alexander in 2007 as Program Manager for the Beacon Hall Day Treatment program in Dallas, North Carolina and transitioned into the role of Executive Director for the […]
Happy Anniversary Lee Puduski!

Lee Puduski Celebrates 18 Years at Alexander Youth Network!, Happy 18-year “AYN*niversary” to our Lead Billing Specialist, Lee Puduski Lee first started with Alexander as a temp employee. When a permanent position opened up, she knew that it would be a great fit, and was excited for the opportunity to officially join the Alexander team. […]