Meet The Board
Christiane is the Founder and Executive Director of Sensory Fun and Playroom, one of few local facilities that specifically cater to the needs of families with children that have various disabilities. She is also the Chief Executive Officer of Sensory Awareness Education & Outreach, INC a local charitable organization that caters to the community of these families.
Christiane is an early childhood educator that began working with children at a very young age. She has an Associate in Early Childhood Education from Ivy Tech Community College. A Bachelors of General Studies from Indiana University, and some graduate studies in Special Education from Ball State University.
While pursuing her education Christiane worked for more than 15 years with preschool children, in her own home child care facilities, some with Autism, ADHD, among other disabilities. She is a wife and mother of four, of which her youngest child has an intellectual disability that caused her to think outside the box. This life circumstance inspired her pursuit to provide a safe space for children that have special needs, their families, and a therapeutic environment for therapists to work one on one with those children.
These efforts have inspired her and her board of directors to offer outreach opportunities, educate the public, about the struggles those with a disability face, and help impoverished communities. All which continue to drive Christiane's passion to make a difference in our community.
These organizations work hand in hand and these are the Board members that are dedicated and committed to helping it succeed.
Melanee Findley is a community-minded professional with personal experience in autism and sensory needs.
After a 30-year career in mortgage technology as both a software developer and a leader, Melanee decided to shift gears and invest more in her local community. She now works part-time at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo as a seasonal educator. She currently serves as a deacon in her church and volunteers for a few non-profit organizations that have a mission of serving children and families.
She is married and has three adult sons and two wonderfully spoiled black cats.
Ga’Von is a multi-functional, global process developer and organizational leader and thinker. For approximately 20 years he has spent considerable time and effort garnering various accounting, finance, and systems experiences which has afforded him the opportunity to incorporate his passion for developing people into the forefront of his career.
Ga’Von studied Accounting and Finance at Indiana
University (Bloomington).
In parallel to his professional development, Ga’Von has
spent the past 20 years evolving, developing, and continuing to grow in service.
The early years were spent serving in various capacities at church Men’s Usher team, Male Chorus, Finance Committee, Feeding the homeless, as well as
teaching bible study. In addition to his spiritual service.
Ga’Von has been deeply rooted in his local community where he is simply known as Coach. This recognition is due to his service through the Parks and Recreation system for various sports and age groups. Most recently, Ga’Von has been enrolled full time
in Parenting University where he and his wife are raising their beautiful children.
Carolyn A. Barnett, is an entrepreneur teaming with Wealth Builder Worldwide to bring financial literacy to those who want to be in control of their wealth.
My personal goal is to leave an inheritance to my family for many generations to enjoy while also leaving a legacy of love and abundance for them to follow and improve upon.
She currently resides in Indianapolis, IN, was born in Fort Wayne, IN and is an alumni of South Side High School. Carolyn worked 50 years in the financial industry in various arenas such as banking, credit, brokerage, and worked 19 years in insurance with Lincoln Financial Group, where she earned her Series 6 and Series 26.
She is an avid reader, reading for professional growth, mental clarity and for pleasure and also enjoys watching design shows and listening to Music.
Sarah Lance brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to community empowerment to her role as a board member. Sarah has served on multiple non-profit boards including, the WBOI Community Advisory Board, Sari Bari USA and with Suti Sani USA as Board President. With a recent background as the Director of Resource Development at Vincent Village Inc., she demonstrated expertise in ethical storytelling, marketing, and grant management, providing strategic direction for fundraising initiatives.
Lance's impactful career extends to her leadership in the nonprofit sector, managing the WBC EmPWR Program and pioneering initiatives like "The Restaurant Revitalization Series."
With a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University Bloomington and a Certificate in Fundraising Management, her commitment to ongoing professional development aligns seamlessly with her dedication to empowering opportunities. Currently as the Executive Director at The Mustard Seed Furniture Bank, Lance is poised to continue making a meaningful impact, sowing the seeds of hope and building brighter futures for individuals and families in northeast Indiana.