Staff
Rebecca Callahan
Executive Director
Rebecca Callahan has served as the Executive Director for Community AIDS Network/ Akron Pride Initiative since 2013. She oversees all of the agency’s programs by ensuring that CANAPI is continuously improving its services while guiding the agency in the development of new programming.
With over 24 years of experience employed in nonprofit organizations, Rebecca works collaboratively with local and state agencies to strengthen and achieve CANAPI’s mission. Rebecca serves as the Board President of AxessPointe Community Health Centers; on the Akron Pride Festival Steering Committee; and on the Restore Court Advisory Board as an advocate for LGBTQ+ youth subject to human and sex trafficking.
Rebecca can be reached at: rcallahan@canapi.org
Brandon A. Stephens
housing 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
Megan Barrett
executive assistant
Megan has been with CANAPI since 2022. She earned a Master of Public Health degree from Kent State University. Her focus of study was social and behavioral sciences.
Previously working for a local homeless shelter as its case manager and program manager, Megan believes that housing is a human right. She takes this advocacy centered approach as she provides support with CANAPI’s day to day operations, plans and coordinates special projects and events, and fosters collaboration with other agencies.
Megan can be reached at: mbarrett@canapi.org
Matt Herold
Outreach & prevention 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
Keegan Byrnes
Outreach & Recovery Specialist
Keegan became part of the team at CANAPI in May of 2021. He manages the social media, community outreach, HIV Testing, Peer Recovery Support, and STRMU programs. Wearing many hats, Keegan has spent time working at a drug and alcohol treatment center as a Residential Supervisor, advocating for the recovery community, and working in Long Term Care facilities as an STNA among other adventures over the years.
Keegan is proud to bring charismatic energy, empathy and understanding as he endeavors to educate and enrich the community as the Outreach & Recovery Specialist for CANAPI.
Keegan can be reached at: kbyrnes@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