With heartfelt joy and deep gratitude, I welcome you to the Second Annual Caregivers Conference.
As both the organizer of this event and someone who walks the caregiving journey every day, I know firsthand the weight and wonder of this calling. Caregiving is not just a role—it is a quiet, powerful form of love that often goes unseen. That’s why this year’s theme, “Angels Who Walk Among Us,” is so fitting.
Each of you embodies this theme in your own way. Whether you’re caring for a parent, a child, a spouse, a friend, or a patient, you show up day after day with strength, compassion, and grace. You are the angels who walk among us—offering comfort, providing care, and reminding the world what true humanity looks like.
This conference is a space for you: to be encouraged, to connect, to learn, and to breathe. Throughout this day, may you find inspiration in the stories shared, wisdom in the sessions offered, and healing in the simple act of being together with those who understand.
Thank you for your courage, your compassion, and your presence here. I am honored to share this space with you.
My deepest thanks go out to our incredible planning committee, our community partners, and all those who worked tirelessly to bring this event to life. Your support and dedication are truly appreciated.
A very special thank you to Rev. Beckham for your unwavering support, your encouragement, and for believing in me. Your prayers, guidance, and faith have been a steady light on this journey, and I am truly grateful.
Thank you all for your courage, your compassion, and your presence here. I am honored to share this space with you.
In His Service, Dr. Sandra Ervin
Conference Organizer & Fellow Caregiver
Conference Schedule Overview
Vendor Booths Open8:00 – 12:30
Continental Breakfast8:00 – 9:00
Welcome
Pastor Eric Beckham
9:009:00 9:009:00 9:00
Prayer
Erica Bethely
Opening Speaker
Dr. Bashir Easter
Fitness Warm-up
John Lewis
Mental Health in Caregiving
Dr. Kenneth Hepburn
Break10:45 – 11:00
Workshop Rotation 111:00 – 11:40
Workshop Rotation 211:45 – 12:25
12:3012:30 12:3012:30 12:30
Lunch & Raffle
Luncheon Guest Speaker
Dr. Lori James
Gospel Singer
Monica Lisa Stevenson
Improvisation
Improving through Improv
Closing Remarks
Dr. Sandra Ervin
Committee Members
Christina Ames
Janice Binford
Debra Brown
Wilma Davis
Dr. Sandra Ervin
Angela Fountain
Deaconess Carol Glover
Mary Harris
Sherri Hill
Anita Hopkins
Deborah Howard
Deaconess Stacey Howell
Rev. Jo Ludgood
Michelle Lumpkins
Mother Patricia McGregor
Deaconess Karla Moore
Deacon Sean Moore
Michael Radford
Lisa Robinson-Davis
Greta Samuels
Angela Spurlock
Deaconess Janet Street
Carolyn Rickards Williams
Pat Terry
Keishay Young
“Not all angels have wings—some have scrubs, some have worn-out sneakers, some carry coffee cups and weary smiles. But they all have hearts full of love.”
Author Unknown
“And let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
Dior DavisTRUTH Honey
Crystal DavisEmory Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center
Lillie Gail Starks Lillie’s Kitchen
Gwendolyn DucreeMarietta City Schools
Communication
Stephania Andry-WilkinsonRed Alliance Media
Dehabillyn MackSacred BOD
Carol Glover
Patricia Friday
Sherri Hill
Paul Patrick Films
Sam Olens, Esq.
Lisa Robinson-Davis
Debra Howard
Debra Brown
Carolyn Rickards Williams
Don Johnson & Eva Johnson
Don Johnson & Leonissa Johnson
Mel &Stephanie Clemmons
I
n Memory of My Sister, Ermadine R. Mays
Dr. Carl Brown &Cheryl Seabrook-Brown
Germaine Devane
Angela Spurlock
Dr. Kimberly Lewis Gary and Jo Ludgood
Crandell Brown
Terry & Kismet Evans
Merceria Ludgood Williams
Lasandra Ludgood McGrew
Chesley McNeil
Chesley McNeil joined 11Alive in 2009 as a Meteorologist instantly becoming one of Atlanta’s most popular on-air personalities. He now hosts his own morning show on 11Alive+, called “The Take.”
Chesley’s career began at WRIC-TV in Richmond, Virginia where he produced two weekly shows: “Richtalk” and “This Week in Richmond.” His interest and training in Meteorology soon won him the weekend weather anchor job. After eight years, Chesley joined WGRZ in Buffalo, New York as the morning Meteorologist for the Daybreak Morning show and Noon newscasts.
He holds a BA in Mass Communications from Wesley College in Delaware, and an MS in Geosciences from Mississippi State University. He is a member of the American Meteorology Society, the National Association of Black Journalists and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. In 2013, he was appointed to the Severe Weather Task Force in Georgia.
Chesley and his wife Ramona are the proud and involved parents of three boys. He enjoys church, sports, especially tennis or basketball, and making documentaries.
Rarione Maniece
Rarione Maniece, an Emmy Award-winning reporter, is a journalist with the 11Alive morning team.
Previously, she served as the White House and Capitol Hill correspondent for BNC. Rarione also previously produced and anchored the morning news at CBS19 in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Rarione holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Old Dominion University and a Master of Science in Multimedia Journalism from Virginia Commonwealth University. She’s also
Rarione actively engages with her community and inspires the next generation through her work and social media presence.
Workshops
Workshop TitlePresenter/Location
120 Years of Vibrant LivingDr. Stephenie Dallas Education Building, Rm 219
Medicare Fraud andJose Pinto
Error PreventionEducation Building, Chapel
Thy “Will” Be Done &Deja Cagle In God We “Trust”Education Building, Rm 221
Restoring the Restorers:Crystal DeBerry
Mental Health ManagementEducation Building, Rm 205
For Caregivers
Planning for the Future:Lauren Graves
Empowering FamiliesTasha Bowen for the Road AheadEducation Building, Rm 214
“Caregiving in the African AmericanDr. Kalisha Bonds Johnson
Community: Improving the Well-Education Building, Rm 213
Being of Persons Living with Dementia and their Family Care Partners
Sponsors
SponsorCompany
Loren StatiaSTATIAnery.com
Craig D. Owens Sr.Cobb County Sheriff’s Foundation
Attorney Kevin MooreMoore Ingram Johnson and Steele Law Firm
Attorney Flynn BroadyFlynn Broady Law Firm
Mike WhittleK Mike Whittle Florist
Kim HesterChurch Insurance Partnership Agency, Inc. (CIPA)
Ashley BryantPattern by Tracee Ellis Ross
Aaron ThompsonCrew Mechanical
Louis CulpepperCAS Security
Littie BrownSpeed Pro Marietta
Andrea TownsendThe Whitley Hotel
Stacey HowellWoodhouse Spa Buckhead
Everett Robinson Jr.Crumbl Cookie, Canton & Hiram
Lee & Evelyn RhyantLee & Evelyn Rhyant Foundation
Bishop Albert LindseyKingdom Difference Family Fellowship
Jose PintoSenior Medical Patrol
Mia ChesterGlobal Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation
Rev. Dr. Tar-U-Way BrightTurner Chapel AME Church
Aldophus HarperState Farm Insurance
Bakari BrooksBrooks Built Home
Kevin TurnerFinancial Planning Centre
Peal Level Advisors
Dr. Sandra ErvinS&S Creative Designs
Sponsors
SponsorCompany
Zion Baptist Church
Old Zion Museum
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Kennesaw
Duck Donuts Acworth
Embassy Suites Kennesaw
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton
Six Flags
Merck Company Foundation
iFLY Indoor Skydiving Atlanta
Red Bird Gifts
White Rabbit Cottage
Acorn Home & Garden
Wellstar Hospital
Walmart, Highway 92 Woodstock
Linkscape 360
Carithers Flowers Atlanta
Honey Bake Ham, Austell
Costco – Cumberland Mall
MeaningfulBeauty Products and More
A Touch of Tones Designs and Creations
Senior 911
André SimsThe Big A
Connie BridgeConnie’s Sweet Treats & Catering
Colette MarshallColette Craft Creations
Anna WalkerAnna W Illumine Your Life
Dr. Lori-Renee Dixon James James Dixon Foundation
Workshops
120 Years of Vibrant Living
Dr. Stephenie Dallas
West Cobb Chiropractic
God created the human race in his image. This means we are not created to be sick and suffering. We are created to be vibrantly alive, yet we live in one of the most sick and suffering countries in the world. This group of people has been seen sick and suffering firsthand like no other group, as you have unselfishly loved and taken care of others. God honors that. But more importantly, we need to take care of ourselves so that we can live out the years that he promises in Genesis 6:3. Not sick, suffering, and diseased. But healthy, happy, and alive more than ever. We do this by applying his laws and principles to natural health.
Medicare Fraud and Error Prevention
Jose Pinto
Senior Medical Patrol
Senior Medicare Patrols (SMPs) presentation will help empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers in preventing, detecting, and reporting healthcare fraud, errors, and abuse. Issues covered include prescription medicine fraud, mail order and 1-800 scams and denial of service scams.
Thy “Will” Be Done & In God We “Trust”
Deja Cagle
This presentation discusses the basic documents needed when making your final arrangements and protecting your family’s assets. This covers documents and their uses.
Planning for the Future:
Empowering Families for the Road Ahead
Lauren Graves
Tasha Bowen
Marietta City Schools
This workshop provides families with essential information and resources to help them plan for the future of their child with special needs. Topics include transition planning, guardianship, financial and legal considerations, independent living skills, and community resources. Parents will leave with practical strategies and a roadmap to support their child’s long-term success and independence.
Vendor Marketplace
Nelson Elder Care Law
Happy Healthy Caregiver, LLC
101 Mobility
ComForCare
InthisManner
Senior Medicare Patrol
Senior 911
Ennoble Care
Blue Summit Hospice and Palliative Care
West Cobb Chiropractic
“Caregiving
in the African American Community:
Improving the Well-being of Persons Living with Dementia and Their Family Care Partners”
Dr. Kalisha Bonds Johnson
Alzheimer’s is a global health problem with nearly seven million people living with the disease in the U.S. alone.
Hear from an Alzheimer’s Association funded researcher about the latest advances in science and research focused on creating culturally responsive programs and improving communication between families and their primary care providers.
Restoring the Restorers: Mental Health Management For Caregivers
Crystal DeBerry
In this session we’ll explore the emotional toll of caregiving, learn how to connect with your inner calm and melt away tension...Come as you are. Leave feeling lighter and seen!
Alzheimer’s Association
Wellstar Advanced Care Planning
Serving Seniors, LLC
Careforth
Home Matters Caregiving
AT&T & (Mynd Solution)
Alter
Emory Healthcare
Abba Health Services
James Dixon Foundation
uKinnect
Department of Veterans Affairs
Mariel’s Healthcare Services
Senior Life Style
Carriage Crossing Senior Living
BossFrog
AccordCare
Monica Lisa Stevenson
She is a powerhouse vocalist and one of the few in the “new school” class of female vocalists who can capture the definitive essence of traditional gospel and “church” music at its best. Monica Lisa Stevenson is that vocalist who provides a commanding presence and a life-impacting spiritual encounter through every song she sings.
Monica Lisa has a litany of achievements contributing to her thriving music ministry including three Stellar Award Nominations for Best New Artist and Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year and two Atlanta Gospel Choice Awards for Best Female Artist and Song of the Year. She’s appeared on BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel and in Tyler Perry’s movie Madea’s Big Happy Family and TV series The Haves and the Have Nots. Added to the list are standout vocal performances in the critically acclaimed Genuis Aretha docuseries as well as roles in regional touring stage plays She has toured throughout Switzerland and Italy and has sung alongside such greats as Pastor Shirley Caesar, Jason Crabb, Erica Campbell, Pastor Marvin Sapp and Tasha Cobbs.
Monica Lisa enjoys singing before audiences, serving her community, and being the proud mother of five children and dedicated wife to her husband Derrick Stevenson, who is also her musical director and producer. Monica Lisa has emerged as a dynamic artist and compassionate philanthropist who inspires something new and refreshing in everyone she touches.
Speakers
Dr. Bashir Easter
Dr. Bashir Easter, an esteemed scholar, entrepreneur and community leader, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people of color. As the founder of Melanin Minded LLC and the Melanin Minded Foundation, Dr. Easter has established a vital resource that serves to bridge information, services, and support gaps for marginalized communities. His mission is to empower and equip people of color with the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve optimal quality of life, particularly in the face of societal challenges and disparities.
Dr. Easter has a Ph.D. in Multidisciplinary Human Services from Capella University, publishing significant research on the experiences of African American adolescents caring for relatives with dementia. Through Melanin Minded, Dr. Easter fosters partnerships and collaborations that emphasize culturally relevant resources and interventions.
Dr. Kenneth Hepburn
Dr. Hepburn is a Professor in the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University and the Co-Director of the NIA-supported Emory Roybal Center for Dementia Caregiving Mastery. The Center supports clinical trials promoting caregiving mastery in various dementia caregiving situations. His research focuses on the development, testing and dissemination of programs that improve the lives of persons living with dementia illnesses by enhancing the knowledge, skills and confidence of their family caregivers. He and his colleagues have developed and demonstrated the efficacy of the Savvy Caregiver Program, a “short course in caregiving” designed to provide family caregivers with the knowledge, skills, and outlook needed to care effectively for persons living with dementia while doing so in a manner that reduces the burden usually associated with dementia caregiving.
Dr. Lori-Renee Dixon James
Dr. Lori-Renee Dixon James is a purpose-driven leader, educator and advocate with decades of training coordination, disability advocacy, program management and nonprofit leadership experience. She is the Founder and President of The James M. Dixon Foundation for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research and Support, Inc. — a nonprofit enhancing the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Initiatives include caregiver support, community programs like Daddy’s Closet and the Food Insecurity Initiative, and scholarships for aspiring medical professionals.
Dr. Lori is also a Life Purpose and Advocacy Coach, empowering caregivers to achieve balance and clarity. Additionally, she is the Founder and President of Focus on Education, Inc., providing consultation on disability rights, education, and compliance with ADA and Section 504 regulations, including services for travelers with dementia.
Dr. Lori has written several impactful works, including The 1000 Minute Rule and The Intentional Caregiver’s Handbook, offering strategies for caregivers to balance self-care and advocacy. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Organizational Change with a concentration in Neuropsychology.
Erica Bethely
Erica Bethely is a graduate of Hinds Community College and Kennesaw State University. She is a teacher of the word of God. She is the founder and leader of a dynamic Women’s Bible Study and prayer group. Erica has a passion for winning people to Christ and for those who have lost hope and desire restoration in any area of their lives. Her greatest desire is to raise up intercessors for the Kingdom of God. She firmly believes in the Word of God and the Power of Prayer. Both have made a lasting impact on both her and her family. She resides in Georgia with her husband and their children.
Entertainment
Improving through Improv
Performers Matt Horgan, Avery Sharpe, Amanda Lee Williams, and David Biemiller know that improvisation can help when caring for persons living with dementia. Instead of working against them, improv helps you join the person and move through each moment with compassion and creativity.
John Lewis
John Lewis’ 1996 vision to serve the community, empower youth, and help people have a better quality of life through fitness, individualized mentorship, and wellness education came to fruition.
With his unique style of agility sports training, John has helped thousands of student and professional athletes and celebrities achieve their personal fitness goals. His passion for helping others extends beyond grassy fields, rubber tracks, and hardwood courts — he works with local recreation centers, food banks, senior living facilities and special needs individuals offering personal fitness to underserved communities.
In 2014, John founded The Phenom Zone, a fitness apparel, wellness and nutrition company. Future plans include producing a web series for those working long hours at a desk or travelling to incorporate fitness into their daily routines.
www.EnergyFitnessOfAmerica.com
partners as well as improving the communication between these families and their primary care providers. She graduated from The University of Tennessee at Martin with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2007; graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 2012; and graduated with a PhD from Oregon Health & Science University in 2019. In 2021, she completed her postdoctoral training at Emory University.
Jose Pinto
Jose Pinto is a graduate of Barry University (MS), Miami, and the University of Missouri (MPA). He has worked in social services and government for over 25 years, serving seniors and various at-risk populations.
Workshop Presenters
Tasha Bowen
Tasha Bowen is a dedicated District Administrator for Special Education with MCS, where she has served for six years. She advocates for children with disabilities and supports special education teachers and families. Tasha holds both an undergraduate degree and a master’s degree from Columbus State University.
As a passionate advocate for inclusive education, Tasha works tirelessly to ensure students with disabilities receive the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve. Her leadership focuses on empowering educators and fostering collaboration between schools and families to enhance student success.
Beyond her professional role, she is a loving wife to Clarence Bowen III and a devoted mother to three daughters —Summer, Makayla, and Taylor Morgan. She eagerly anticipates her next cherished role— becoming a grandmother.
Deja Cagle, Esq.
Deja M. Cagle, Esq., is a dedicated attorney with a passion for empowering individuals through legal education and advocacy. Deja earned her Juris Doctor and Master’s in Library Science from North Carolina Central University School of Law, graduating with honors. She experienced a lifechanging moment in 2013 when she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and her faith is the foundation of her life and career. She is an active member of The Path Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
Deja founded Kingdom Building Company, LLC where she represents the State of Georgia in child support enforcement and modification
cases. Her practice includes family law, wills, trusts and estate planning.
Deja is sharing her insights on Estate Planning and the Importance of Preparing Your Affairs in Advance. She is passionate about helping individuals and families understand the legal tools available to protect their assets, ensure their wishes are honored, and provide peace of mind for their loved ones.
Dr. Stephenie Dallas
Dr. Stephenie Dallas is a Chiropractor in Powder Springs, Georgia. She has been serving the community through chiropractic for over seven years. After graduating college with a biology and neuroscience degree, God called her to lead people to true health and healing naturally. As a mother of two, she is dedicated to impacting multiple generations of families. God is using her in this community to be a leader of holistic health, to love, and to serve.
Crystal DeBerry
Crystal, a Sound Embrace certified sound healing practitioner, found her calling after seeking emotional solace amidst life’s challenges including serving as a caregiver for her mother and other family members. Driven by personal experiences, she delved into sound healing to improve her own well-being and now shares its transformative power with others. With formal training and heartfelt dedication, Crystal uses sound therapy to offer solace and empowerment to those facing emotional struggles. Through individual sessions, workshops, and immersive experiences, she creates nurturing environments for healing and inner harmony. Crystal’s approach, rooted in authenticity and mindfulness, aims to facilitate profound shifts in consciousness. With compassion and empathy, she stands as a beacon of hope amidst the emotional epidemic facing humanity today, illuminating paths of healing and restoration.
Lauren Graves
Lauren Graves is the Parent Mentor for Marietta City Schools. She works in the Department of Student Services for parents of Special Education students. A love of these students and a need to teach parents to become strong advocates comes from her own children’s struggles.
Lauren is happily married to her husband Ben and is Mom to her daughters Elyse (14) and Natalie (11). Both girls have ADHD and dyslexia. When they were young it was an overwhelming process to navigate the tier process, the evaluation and securing the IEP to receive services. The Parent Mentor role is a dream combination of a background in education through teaching preschool, leading before and after school programs, being a Center Director of a learning center and being a mother of children with disabilities.
Lauren earned a degree from SUNY (State University of New York) at Potsdam. Working with students who were suspended from an inner-city school system instilled a love of teaching self-advocacy, providing resources for those who are unsure of next steps and being a supportive listening ear. Marietta City Schools has been the perfect place to land to continue learning and growing.
Kalisha Bonds Johnson
Dr. Kalisha Bonds Johnson is an assistant professor at Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Atlanta, Georgia and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Emory University’s Integrated Memory Care —a primary care clinic tailored to the care of persons living with dementia and their families. She is also the Principal Investigator of the DECIDE Research Lab, which focuses on creating culturally responsive programs to improve the quality of life of African American persons living with dementia and their family care
