Community Care Connections of NWA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals who face barriers in accessing or affording essential resources and counseling services. Our mission is to provide a safe and inclusive space where individuals can access free or discounted counseling, community resources, and support to enhance their mental, emotional, and overall wellbeing. Through collaboration, advocacy, and empowerment, we strive to create a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community.

With the support of generous donations and grants, we are able to offer crucial resources and support for those in need. Community Care Connections of NWA is here to ensure that all individuals have access to the mental healthcare that they deserve, regardless of their background or financial situation. Join us in making a difference in the lives of those who have served our country and those who may be struggling to access care. Your support is vital in helping us continue our important work.

Meet Our Board

  • Caroline Russell

    Caroline, co-founder of Community Care Connections of NWA, has over 20 years of experience in Occupational Therapy and a strong passion for serving individuals in need. With expertise in aggregating resources and making community connections, she is dedicated to ensuring holistic health for all. As a clinician, Director of Rehab, and patient advocate, she champions patient rights and healthcare education.

    In addition to her professional achievements, Caroline is a devoted mother of four children and an active member of PGFUMC, where she serves on the board of trustees and volunteers for various events. Her involvement in the community has deepened her commitment to improving the system and providing support for those facing mental health struggles. Through her work with Community Care Connections of NWA, she continues to advocate for mental health awareness and support.

  • Thomas Parker

    Thomas Parker is a dedicated trauma-focused therapist and co-founder of Community Care Connections. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his practice, underpinned by a notable 17-year tenure with the Army National Guard, where he served in various capacities such as Chaplain’s Assistant, Infantryman, Military Police, and Chaplain Candidate. Following his time with the Army National Guard, Thomas transitioned to the Air Force Reserves as a Chaplain.

    Thomas holds a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, with a dual emphasis on Biblical Counseling and Chaplaincy. He also earned a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Liberty University. His professional qualifications are further enhanced by his specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

    With a career marked by service and a profound commitment to mental health, Thomas has lived in various locations including Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Germany. He has also been deployed twice with the Army National Guard, gaining valuable experiences that inform his therapeutic approach. In addition to his professional pursuits, Thomas is passionate about supporting communities and individuals through compassionate care and evidence-based therapies. His non-profit venture aims to extend these services, reflecting his enduring dedication to fostering mental wellness and resilience.

  • Casey D. Copeland

    Casey D. Copeland is a licensed attorney practicing in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley for the past nineteen years, with primary focuses on family law, child welfare law, and fiduciary relationships. Casey grew up on a small farm south of Fayetteville, attended Greenland Schools, and earned his undergraduate and law degrees from the UofA in Fayetteville. He and his wife, Cohen, now live in Prairie Grove, and have three sons; two of whom have already finished high school. Casey's law practice has provided him with extensive experience with both legal and treatment components of our mental health system, and is looking forward to helping the organization help as many people as possible.

  • Rachel Kohutek

    Rachel Kohutek is a dedicated social worker with over a decade of experience serving the communities in Northwest Arkansas. She holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Arkansas, where she also pursued studies in Spanish during her undergraduate years. Rachel is deeply committed to community outreach, case management, and coordinating care for individuals in need. In addition to her professional pursuits, she is a devoted wife and mother who takes great pleasure in actively participating in the beauty of Northwest Arkansas.

  • Allison Calgagni

    Alison Calcagni is an outgoing Speech- Language Pathologist and social media guru with a talent for improving productivity. She earned her master's degree at the University of Tulsa, where she played soccer as a center midfielder for three years. Alison met her husband at TU, and they relocated to Northwest Arkansas, where she truly loves the beauty of the community. She is also a skilled event planner and a devoted wife and mother of two children, dedicated to maintaining a balance between her professional and personal responsibilities with grace and determination.