Board Members

I was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC), a condition that affects my upper extremities and limits the range of motion in my arms and hands. Growing up, I quickly learned how to navigate a world that wasn’t built for someone like me. Simple tasks, like holding a pencil, buttoning a shirt, or carrying groceries, became daily challenges. I didn’t have the luxury of taking these things for granted, but instead, I found ways to adapt. It wasn’t always easy, but I was determined to live life on my terms.

As I got older, I realized that I wasn’t the only one facing these obstacles. I met so many others with AMC who, like me, had to find creative ways to do things most people never even thought about. Yet, despite our resourcefulness, we lacked the tools and support to make our lives easier. The adaptive tools we needed just didn’t exist or were too expensive or difficult to access. That’s when the idea for Empowered by AMC began to take shape.

Thus, Empowered by AMC was born. My nonprofit aims to provide individuals with AMC the adaptive tools and technologies they need to lead more independent, fulfilling lives. I wanted to create a space where people could find support, share ideas, and access customized tools that are designed to meet their unique needs.

For me, this mission is deeply personal. I want every person with AMC to feel empowered—to know that their challenges don’t define them and that there are tools, resources, and a community ready to support them. My journey with AMC has taught me that limitations don’t have to hold us back; instead, they can inspire us to innovate and find new ways to move forward.

Empowered by AMC is my way of giving back to the community. It’s my chance to turn my experience into something that will help others, making sure no one ever has to face the obstacles of AMC alone. Together, we can build a world where every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to live a full and empowered life.

Shahnee Thompson is the Founder and Creative Director of Workshops on Wheels (WOW), a community event organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and entertaining individuals of all ages through wellness focused programming. With over 14 years of experience in health promotion, youth development, and program design, Thompson has built a career around creating transformative experiences that foster personal growth and community connection.

What drew Thompson to Empowered By AMC is the shared commitment to empowerment through education and adaptive support. As a Certified Health Coach and specialized training in youth and family development, Thompson understands the profound impact that accessible resources, advocacy, and inclusive community spaces have on individuals navigating unique physical challenges. Thompson's professional background in designing tailored programs aligns directly with AMC's mission of fostering independence through adaptive tools, educational advocacy, and meaningful connection.

Thompson holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, a Graduate Certificate in Youth Development and Leadership from North Carolina State University, and a Master of Public Health from Lenoir Rhyne University. Thompson is deeply passionate about ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, has the resources and support to thrive. Thompson looks forward to contributing her expertise in program development, community engagement, and health education to advance Empowered By AMC's vital work.

Always striving towards excellence & greatness no matter the hardship or obstacle is what Coreh "CirCut" Dameron represents. Born & raised in Chicago, IL Coreh has overcome many struggles on an emotional & physical standpoint in his life. Despite being born with a rare physical disorder (Arthrogryposis or AMC) Coreh has worked diligently throughout the years proving that he's a reliable asset to his colleagues/peers.

The music industry in its entirety has served as a therapeutic outlet for Coreh throughout the day to day battles of being disabled, with him taking on several roles such as film/music producer, song writer, digital media consultant, motivational speaker, event coordinator, blogger, Emmy Award winner & manager.

Ashley Spence is a dedicated human services professional with extensive experience leading programs that strengthen youth, families, and communities. Throughout her career, she has overseen the delivery, quality, and expansion of service programs, ensuring regulatory compliance, grant accountability, and high quality, client centered services. Her collaborative leadership style emphasizes employee development, mentorship, and effective supervision. Ashley has also served as a Family Support Specialist, Violence Prevention Specialist, and Counselor, where she implemented evidence based interventions, trained professionals, maintained program fidelity, and supported individuals and families through strengths based approaches.

Ashley earned a Master of Arts in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Angelo State University. She is certified in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other specialized practices, with expertise in project management, strategic planning, budgeting, and team leadership. Beyond her professional career, Ashley volunteers with Meals on Wheels, The Forgotten Child, and Jirehs' Lighthouse Consulting. She is honored and excited to serve on the Empowered by AMC Board of Directors and looks forward to advancing the organization's mission of supporting and empowering individuals and families affected by Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita.