Staff
Brandon Stephens
program manager
Brandon joined CANAPI in September 2020. In May 2016, Brandon graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Criminology & Justice Studies. For four and a half years prior to joining CANAPI, he worked as a case manager in community corrections in a drug court program with people recovering from substance abuse.
During his time in community corrections and as a student at Kent State University, Brandon advocated for a better understanding of the LGBTQ community through awareness training and local activism. At Kent State University, he spent three years as President of the PRIDE! Kent student organization and is excited to bring his passion and experience to the Director of Operations position at CANAPI.
Brandon can be reached at: bstephens@canapi.org
Matt Herold
Program manager
Matt began his employment at CANAPI in August of 2023, but his involvement with the agency began prior to that as an avid volunteer.
As the Outreach & Prevention Manager, Matt oversees the operations of CANAPI’s Lavender Landing programs, the STRMU program, and the HIV Prevention program.
Matt taught yoga for 10 years prior to working for CANAPI. Matt is excited to expand his knowledge and ability to help those in need and utilize what he already knows through teaching yoga as therapy.
Matt can be reached at mherold@canapi.org
Brooke Frank
Housing support specialist
Brooke joined CANAPI in December 2022 by way of Dayton, OH as the Housing and Support Specialist and dedicates her time to overseeing CANAPI’s Micah Project, Helping Hands, and Shelter + Care Programs. In this role, Brooke is proud to build relationships with individuals within the community, advocate for universal housing that starts at home, and celebrate the successes of her clients as they meet their goals.
During her time at Wright State University, Brooke majored in Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, as well as Psychology with a minor in Criminology. Previously serving as the VP of the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance, Brooke’s background in philanthropy and activism led her to build relationships with local organizations in Midwest Ohio such as GLSEN, SURJ, NOW, Artemis Domestic Violence Shelter and the YWCA.
Brooke is thrilled to bring her compassionate and energetic nature to CANAPI, and looks forward to connecting with the community.
Brooke can be reached at bkendall@canapi.org
Huda Mahmood
Maintenance specialist
Huda started at CANAPI in August of 2023. She has 6 years of maintenance experience. She previously worked at other Akron apartment complexes as maintenance and loves to fix homes and apartments.
She has her own business in the home improvement field, called “Jadeed Renovation.” She started her business in 2017 and is a self-taught handywoman. Her business handles all plumbing, carpentry, finishing and electrical needs. Her passion is fixing up homes and bringing a new fresh look to all her projects.
Huda is very happy to bring her maintenance expertise to CANAPI’s properties.
Huda can be reached at hmahmood@canapi.org
Maurice Thomas
Housing support specialist
Maurice started at CANAPI in April 2024. He has 7 years of Case Management experience. He previously worked at other Akron Non-Profits like Bayard Rustin Center and Equitas Health.
Maurice is the Chairperson for Family Black Pride and is a committee member for the Akron Pride Board. He also is a Leader and founder member of the ballroom house "Makaveli" from HBO Max Show "Legendary" a Ballroom competition series where they placed 4th.
Maurice can be reached at mthomas@canapi.org
Tim Reilly
Outreach & Prevention Specialist
Tim arrived at CANAPI by way of Las Vegas, Nevada and St. Lucie County, Florida. He has worked in various roles as a public health professional. While in Florida, Tim worked for the Department of Health as a Disease Intervention Specialist.
In his role as a DIS, Tim investigated the transmission of various sexually transmitted infections and counseled those who were newly diagnosed with HIV and assisted them with connections to treatment and support groups.
Tim’s passion is outreach and education. He hopes to utilize these passions in his role at CANAPI to assist our community in reducing stigma surround those who are living with HIV.
Tim can be reached at treilly@canapi.org
Lennon Clemens
Housing & Support Specialist
Lennon became a valued member of our agency in January 2025. With over five years of experience in the case management field, she has developed a deep understanding of the challenges individuals and families face. Lennon holds a degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Kent State University, which has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and effective support to those in need.
Throughout her career, Lennon has demonstrated a commitment to helping others navigate complex situations and improve their lives. She takes pride in advocating for clients, ensuring they receive the resources and guidance needed to thrive. Her strong problem-solving abilities and empathetic nature have made her an integral part of our team.
Outside of her professional life, Lennon is passionate about volunteering and giving back to her community. She strives to make a positive impact wherever she can. In her downtime, Lennon enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, valuing the connections that bring balance and joy to her life.
Lennon can be reached at lclemens@canapi.org
Frankie Wall
Residential Services Program Coordinator
Frankie joined CANAPI in February 2025. He came to us by way of Starbucks and Nationwide Children’s Hospital with a background in process improvement, data analysis, accreditation, and project management. In addition, he studied City and Regional Planning at The Ohio State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree with a focus in urban design and urban development.
Frankie looks forward to utilizing his skills and experience to serve our community and work towards bettering outcomes.
Frankie can be reached at fwall@canapi.org
Djuan Wash
Transitional House Coordinator
Djuan joined CANAPI in February of 2025, bringing a wealth of experience in community engagement and advocacy as an organizer. He has a proven ability to build coalitions, develop strategies, and drive policy changes on critical issues over a decade-long career.
Djuan manages our Lavender Landing transitional house and operates as the agency's community engagement coordinator.
Djuan's passion for people brought him to CANAPI to support unhoused youth and young adults providing them the skills and support they need to thrive in a changing world.
Frankie can be reached at dwash@canapi.org