Jessica Hicks joins CFGH as Supported Employment Program Director

Cape Fear Group Homes Inc., is proud to welcome Jessica Hicks as our Supported Employment Program Director. Jessica will be overseeing the operations in Guilford, Forsythe, Durham, Alamance, Davidson and Wake areas. She has been serving as the Assistant Director over the Guilford and Alamance offices. She is a welcome addition to our Executive Team.
L-R Ed Walsh, Executive Director; Courtney Horton, Program Director- New Hanover, Onslow, Craven, Columbus; Jessica Hicks

CFVS awarded Certificate of Appreciation from NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

“From the bottom of our hearts, please accept our most sincere thanks for working with our staff at Vocational Rehabilitation.

Thank you so much for all you do- all the employer visits, meeting at client’s homes, navigating medical or mental health crises, putting out fires, being a mentor, teacher, personal shopper, fashion designer, good cop, bad cop, nurse, sometimes a chauffeur and truly being an extended part of their family in helping them grow toward their goals!

We thank you for braving the pandemic and continuing to work on the front lines during this crazy, ‘unprecedented’ (aren’t you tired of hearing that?) time. You often go above and beyond to help each person with their individual and sometimes specialized needs and NEVER give up! We know it is not always glamorous, nor easy, but know that YOU are making a BIG difference in someone’s life daily, and YOU ARE APPRECIATED!

Thank you for seeing the ABILITY of these employees, instead of their limitations. We are eternally grateful for your kindness, your time and continued support.

It may be small and could never be enough, but please accept this Certificate of Appreciation and Recognition as a Distinguished Employer in promoting disability awareness and inclusion, and opportunity for all.”

Your friends at Vocational Rehabilitation in Morehead City and New Bern, NC.

Cape Fear Group Homes, Inc. receives grant from the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation

On September 23, 2020, the Board of Directors of Cape Fear Memorial Foundation approved a grant of $30,000 to Cape Fear Group Homes Inc., a fully licensed, private, not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization. Mrs. Anita Ford, Project Development Coordinator at Cape Fear Group Homes, led the effort to apply for this grant.  Ed Walsh, Executive Director says, “We are grateful to receive these funds specifically for the expansion of our new Wilmington facility.”  

The new location is 102 Old Eastwood Rd, Unit D2 in Wilmington NC. The Administrative offices, Cape Fear Vocational Services Wilmington offices, and our Life Enhancement Center are now in one place! We will be announcing plans for an Open House after the COVID pandemic is over.

Anna Erwin, President, Cape Fear Memorial Foundation, says “The Directors of Cape Fear Memorial Foundation are pleased to support you as you serve our community and wish you continued success”

Cape Fear Memorial Foundation is a private foundation based in Wilmington, NC that was founded in 1996.  Its primary purpose is to serve the health and medical needs of the people of Southeastern North Carolina. It supports not-for-profit organizations providing health and medical services and health education.  Funding programs and organizations that promote health education, disease prevention, and provide direct medical and health services has been, and continues to be the priority of the foundation’s granting philosophy.  For more information visit www.cfmfdn.org.

Cape Fear Group Homes, Inc A fully licensed, private, not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization, Cape Fear operates ICF-IID group homes in Wilmington. Cape Fear also operates a day program and administrative office on Kerr Avenue. In addition to residential support, Cape Fear offers occupational development, employment services, and community inclusion programs is committed to help people reach their optimum potential in becoming active community members through our person-centered program of goal development and skill acquisition.  We strongly believe that personal growth and development is the key to our services; therefore, our focus is on assisting people in finding their voices and developing skills to discover their unique place in the community. For more information visit www.capefeargh.org

Lawahna Corbett – a shining star

Lawahna Corbett began her career with Cape Fear Group Homes 12 years ago. Quiet and reserved, she came to work every day determined to learn all she could.

This young lady’s work ethic has remained the same from the beginning, clients first, always.  As a single mom of 3 she had to pass up certain promotions to be there for her kids, but still exhibited growth and resilience in both her professional and personal life.  Now that all her children are older, she finally accepted the 1st Shift Coordinator position at Robin Hood Group Home in 2019.  Lawahna knew the time was right. She was determined to move forward in her career and was finally ready to show her skills.  She has rapport with parents and staff, with her soft spoken and steady leadership and has earned respect in her role with her gentle personality and caring spirit .   

During this COVID-19 PANDEMIC Lawahna has never wavered as a reliable employee, adjusting to all the changes with a positive attitude as a team player.  She made it a priority to maintain a normal schedule for our clients. She has been a strong leader, guiding the staff to understand the changes that were needed and  creative ways to make them happen. 

Thank you Lawahna Corbett. You are truly a shining star for the entire Cape Fear Group Homes family!  

Submitted by Ansylene Mitchell, QP (Ms. Angie)

Ed Walsh, Executive Director CFGH

Keyana Mapson, Everyday Hero

Countless people serve our communities each day, but are often overlooked. COVID-19 has made us all better understand the significant role employees play in our everyday lives.

We want to give a special shout-out to Keyana Mapson, Wilmington Group Home Manager, who is one of those everyday heroes that embodies what is best about Cape Fear Group Homes. Keyana is a single parent and during these extraordinary times has had to sacrifice time with her daughter. Not only does she work her regular hours but she voluntarily fills in when called upon. She has been a “rock” for the people living at the home and the entire CFGH team. She knows the personalities and the likes and dislikes of all twelve people living in our homes which is quite an accomplishment! She believes in a “creative team approach” with her staff and it shows in their work together.

Ansylene Mitchell, CFGH ICF-IID Program Director says, “Keyana goes above and beyond in her position with our clients and staff. She is my right hand and at times both of my hands! I have worked with this young lady for about 13 years, watching her grow and excel in all areas of her job duties. From me to you, continue to assist, encourage and fight for the rights of the people we support and our staff. Thank You from the bottom of my heart for all you do. It comes with lots of love and appreciation.”