InReach Executive and Leadership Team

Deanna Dycus, the Chief Financial Officer at InReach, manages all fiscal operations and long-term budgetary planning for the organization. Dycus directs the allocation of resources to ensure the sustainability of housing and employment programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By overseeing financial reporting and grant compliance, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the integrity of funding streams supporting over 1,200 participants. Dycus collaborates with the board to optimize capital distribution, ensuring that every dollar directly enhances community support services. This leadership role involves rigorous auditing of internal controls to mitigate risk while maximizing the impact of charitable contributions. Through precise financial forecasting, Deanna Dycus secures the economic foundation necessary for expanding residential services across the Charlotte/Mecklenburg area. The Chief Financial Officer remains focused on fiscal transparency, providing the stability required for the organization to fulfill the core mission of empowering families and individuals through personalized care management.

Lori Gougeon, the President at InReach, directs the overarching strategic vision and mission-driven initiatives of the organization. Gougeon architects partnerships with community stakeholders and government agencies to secure resources for housing and employment support. By leading the executive team, the President ensures alignment between long-term goals and the immediate needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lori Gougeon represents the organization in public forums, advocating for policies that promote inclusion and accessibility across the North Carolina region. This leadership role involves setting the tone for organizational culture, emphasizing empathy, empowerment, and personalized care. Through the oversight of the First In Families project, the President addresses the complex challenges faced by families, ensuring that support remains responsive and effective. Gougeon drives growth by identifying new opportunities for community engagement and service expansion. Ultimately, the President secures the future of the organization, maintaining a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of those served.

Franchesca Smith, the Chief Human Resources Officer at InReach, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies essential for delivering high-quality community support. Smith oversees the recruitment of specialized care managers and residential staff, ensuring that every team member possesses the expertise to assist individuals with developmental disabilities. By implementing comprehensive training programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of inclusion and professional excellence. Franchesca Smith manages employee relations and performance metrics, aligning staff capabilities with the evolving needs of the First In Families project. This leadership role involves designing compensation structures that attract dedicated professionals to the nonprofit sector. Through the development of robust retention initiatives, Smith stabilizes the workforce, allowing for consistent service delivery across regional operations. The Chief Human Resources Officer drives organizational health by promoting diversity and equity, ensuring that the internal environment reflects the values of empowerment and community integration championed by the organization.

Deborah Shiflett, the Chief Operations Officer at InReach, executes the daily delivery of housing, employment, and community support services. Shiflett oversees the operational logistics of residential facilities, ensuring compliance with state standards and safety protocols for all participants. By streamlining service workflows, the Chief Operations Officer enhances the efficiency of care management and employment support programs. Deborah Shiflett coordinates with regional partners to expand community activities, fostering greater inclusion for adults and children with intellectual disabilities. This leadership role involves managing the infrastructure required to support over 1,200 individuals, from facility maintenance to program scheduling. Through the implementation of data-driven operational improvements, Shiflett optimizes the impact of the organization's service delivery model. The Chief Operations Officer maintains a sharp focus on quality assurance, ensuring that every program participant receives personalized assistance tailored to unique needs. Shiflett drives operational excellence, enabling the organization to scale its reach effectively throughout the Charlotte/Mecklenburg area.