marcel allen (ceo and founder)
Marcel Allen brings more than 30 years of law enforcement experience and a deep commitment to supporting individuals living with invisible disorders. After being diagnosed with epilepsy following a motor vehicle collision, he became a strong advocate for improved awareness and training for first responders dealing with seizure-related incidents.
A graduate of Algonquin College and Toronto Metropolitan University, Marcel developed a seizure response training program now used through the Canadian Police Knowledge Network. For over 16 years, he has promoted epilepsy awareness through partnerships such as E-Action and continues his advocacy through The Change Coalition, focusing on education, accessibility, and support for individuals living with invisible, hidden, and non-apparent disabilities.
CYNTHIA IRVINg, cpa (CFO AND co-founder)
Cynthia is a CPA that has worked with non-profits over the last 20 years. She has a strong understanding of CRA regulations for non-profit organizations. She has successfully managed several non-profits, some that support individuals with invisible disabilities.
She was diagnosed with a neurological disability, multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2021, at the age of 55. As she learned about the disease and its effects, she reflected on her life and can now see issues that were never recognized. MS causes lesions on a person’s brain that lead to a number of cognitive issues, such as problems with attention and short-term memory.
She always had a desire to help people and this organization is the perfect way to accomplish that goal. Although her symptoms are less intense, there are aspects of her life that are permanently altered. She has had to adjust to this transition throughout her life and is able to be sympathetic to the plight of other.
RICHARD MARTIN (co-CHAIRMAN)
A retired Health Canada scientist, Richard now fills his days with volunteer work. He volunteers with Matthew House, Helping with Furniture and the Catholic Centre for Immigrants (CCI), assisting with refugee support programs.
To support the inner-city programs, he founded Ottawa Food Rescue that transports grocery store food surplus to Belong Ottawa.
When not volunteering, he paddles on a few dragon boat teams and regularly runs, very slowly, along the canal. He's also a self-proclaimed gym rat.
Elizabeth Jackson-Caudle (secretary)
Born in Swift Current Saskatchewan and then moving to Ottawa as a small child, Liz grew up in the community of Beacon Hill. Graduating from Carleton University and joining the RCMP as a Civilian member, she worked with the Missing Children’s Registy as a Research Analyst and Travel Coordinator for the return of Missing and Abducted Children. During this time, she also volunteered with Child Find Ontario. Liz later moved on to Foreign Affairs, and then Science, Innovation, and Economic Development Canada as Coordinator for Access to Information within the Assistant Deputy Ministers Office (Science and Research Sector), During this time she was given the Deputy Ministers award of merit for assisting in streamlining the ATIP process.
Current retirement plans as of March 2025, have presented a continued opportunity to assist with volunteering and giving back to the community, while enjoying time for her passions the gym, yoga and of course travel.
cherina sparks r. ac.
Cherina Sparks has been a Registered Acupuncturist in Ontario since 2014. She has studied abroad and in Canada with many great TCM professionals. She has a background in nutrition and meditation before becoming an acupuncturist.
She was awarded the 2020 & 2021 Consumer Choice Award for Acupuncture Excellence and has been nominated for her work by Best in Ottawa and Faces Ottawa. She focuses each treatment to the needs of every individual patient, including on neuromuscular problems, sports/gym-related musculoskeletal injuries, digestion issues, concussion and vision issues, seasonal allergies, mental stress and mindfulness, and cosmetic skin/facial acupuncture.
Kecy Boadu, MSW. RSW.
Kecy Boadu is dedicated to supporting individuals living with disabilities and advocating for inclusive environments where people feel valued, heard, and supported. Through her professional and volunteer experience, she brings a strong commitment to empathy, meaningful connection, and lifelong learning. Kecy is passionate about helping build more compassionate, accessible, and inclusive communities for all.
honorary board member-susan cunningham
Susan is retired Registered Nurse with over 35 years of professional experience across a broad range of clinical settings, including neurosciences, nephrology, elder care, and psychiatric nursing. Throughout her career, Susan worked closely with interdisciplinary teams, patients, and families, developing strong skills in advocacy, problem-solving, communication, and ethical decision-making.
Susan has a deep understanding of complex systems, vulnerable populations, and the importance of compassionate, evidence-informed approaches, bringing a practical, grounded perspective to challenges, with a strong appreciation for accountability, transparency, and teamwork.
In retirement Susan would like to engage in service-oriented work and am enthusiastic about participating in specific projects where focused effort and collaboration can make a meaningful impact. I particularly enjoy environments that value creative thinking alongside solid, thoughtful planning, being energized by working with people who share like-minded goals of service, integrity, and community benefit.
I look forward to contributing my experience, time, and creativity in support of the organization’s mission and long-term success.