Parents and caregivers are welcome to join us at our support meetings to learn about disability services, your basic rights under the special education law, and other topics important to our kids. Part of each meeting is dedicated to sharing experiences and offering support to the rest of the group, too. We also welcome anyone from the community who is interested in learning more about disability services and educating our kids with extra-ordinary needs.
You can also join as a volunteer member! We need volunteers to staff various school and other city events on behalf of CAN-DO. And if you are interested in joining our team as a board member, please attend our business meetings. Anyone is welcome at these meetings, though, as we all map out what CAN-DO can do!
Board Members
Kelly Brown
Co-Chair
Kelly Brown is a mother to three amazing sons in the Easthampton public school district. Her children all received special education services and she is a strong advocate for their education and social-emotional needs within the school and greater community. Kelly is also an early childhood specialist, working on obtaining her PhD from UMass Boston. She is an adjunct faculty at UMass Amherst in the Psychology and Brain Sciences department. Kelly lives in Easthampton with her three children, husband, and two dogs. She loves reading, watching tv and movies, and watching her children explore the world.
Sam Hunter
Co-Chair & Treasurer
Sam Hunter has a 7-year-old at Mountain View School and has lived in Easthampton for over 10 years. In addition to serving as the co-chair of CAN-DO, he is also an elected member of the Easthampton School Committee. Same also works in family support at the Department of Developmental Services Regional Office in Springfield. When not attending meetings on Zoom, Sam enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with his two cats and his dog, Brooklyn.
Pilar G. Dea
Communications
Pilar is mom to a “twice-exceptional” high school student who has been in Easthampton Public Schools since preschool. She’s been a member of the EPSD SEPAC for just as many years, serving as the Facebook page administrator and now on Instagram and in design and communications, too. With a Masters in counseling psychology, a previous career as a hospice counselor, and working in spite of disability herself, Pilar has long been an advocate for people working through grief, trauma, disability, and end-of-life issues. Principal of Laughing Pebble Studio, she enjoys living by pen and paintbrush through design and language services for small businesses.
Todd Snider
Secretary
Todd Snider is the primary caregiver for his son, a student at Mountain View School. He resides with his wife and son in Easthampton. Todd first became inspired to work with CAN-DO through his experience of transitioning his son from early intervention services into the school’s special education system. He believes strongly that all caregivers should have the benefit of navigating such challenges amidst a community of support and accessible resources. Todd looks forward to utilizing his background in non-profit event organization and management to facilitate increased community development, involvement and awareness. He relishes the privilege of revolving his life around his charming son, taking family trips, and faithfully believes each coming weekend is the weekend where he will complete all those unfinished home projects.
Your Name Here
Outreach Coordinator
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Treasurer
EPSD CAN-DO 