Recreational therapists

Kolten Wince, CTRS

Kolten Wince graduated from the University of Toledo in 2018 receiving a Bachelor’s of Science in Therapeutic Recreation. Following graduation, he received his certification to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Kolten completed his internship at the Laurels of Toledo where he worked with the physical rehab and geriatric populations. Throughout his college experience, Kolten worked at Sunshine Communities in Maumee, OH as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Kolten Served individuals of all ages with a wide variety of cognitive, social, and physical needs to improve their quality of life while working at Sunshine Communities. Kolten looks forward to working together with his clients to implement recreation and leisure to achieve their goals, promote healthy leisure and improve their quality of life.

Pete Reyes, CTRS

Peter Reyes graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation. During his time at IU, he volunteered at Stone Belt (Disability services and support organization), volunteered at Kid's Play Gym (sensory stimulation gym for children), and worked at the Middle Way House Youth Program (after school care and support group for at-risk youth) while being a member of the Indiana National Guard. Peter completed his internship at Pure Abilities where he shadowed owner Ethan Pickett and Chris Fitzgerald. During his internship, he excelled in learning how to interact with and improve the overall health of the individuals he worked with. Shortly after completing his internship and his degree, Peter received his certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. Peter's passion for helping other's continuously improve their overall well-being is reflected in the work that he does. He possesses great work-ethic, drive, loyalty, and shows dedication for all those he works for. He will always put other's needs before his own and will make every effort to assist individuals on reaching their goals through recreation and leisure.

Jenn Hagewood, CTRS, M.Psych

Jennifer Hagewood graduated from Central Michigan University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation services. She completed internships at Battle Creek VA Medical Center and Lighthouse Neurological Rehabilitation. These have included experiences working with people with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, psychological disabilities, and more. Jenn has served clients on the Indiana Medicaid waiver since 2013 as a recreation therapist in northern IN. Jenn is a volunteer for the Special Olympics. She decided to further her education and graduated in the fall of 2023 with a master’s in psychology from Indiana Tech. She plans to grow her career through both careers, a behavior consultant and a recreation therapist, for clients in northern Indiana. She is passionate about helping individuals with disabilities reach goals, improve their quality of life, and complete challenges. She is excited about the opportunities to serve and positively impact individuals.

Grant Hiday, CTRS

Grant Hiday graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation. Throughout college Grant was involved with Wheelchair basketball along with field experiences at Stone Belt in Bloomington, Indiana where he worked alongside classmates to support clients. He has volunteered at the Veterans Affairs Domiciliary utilizing group outings and treatments through adaptive sports and recreation. After college Grant completed his internship at Pure Abilities under owner, Ethan Pickett and obtained his CTRS shortly after. Grant has a passion for improving the well-being of his clients through therapies that provide social, emotional, and physical progress towards their individual goals.

Allison Volk, CTRS

Allison “Allie” Volk graduated with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Grand Valley State University in May 2021. Throughout college, Allie volunteered with varying adaptive programs at Mary Free Bed Rehab hospital in Grand Rapids, MI. Allie completed her fieldwork in Summer 2019 as a camp counselor and traveling activity specialist at Stepping Stones Inc., in Cincinnati, OH. During her fieldwork, Allie worked with a wide range of populations at the teen and adult overnight camp as she led camp activities, and assisted with activities of daily living (ADL’s). Allie completed her internship in Winter 2021 with Pure Abilities, spanning both the Indianapolis and Fort Wayne areas. During her internship, she was able to work alongside Jordan Koenig, CTRS, and Ethan Pickett, CTRS and the owner. In addition to her experiences, Allie also has been an adaptive swim instructor for the Jorgensen YMCA in Fort Wayne since 2018, and absolutely loves being around water to help clients achieve their aquatic goals. Allie is ecstatic to share her passion for helping others grow through recreation and leisure as she works with her clients to reach and attain their goals through old and new adventures.

Megan Bair, CTRS

Megan Bair graduated from Indiana University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy. During college, Megan worked as a direct support professional where she gained experience and skills working with individuals with disabilities. She also volunteered at People and Animal Learning Services (PALS) where she helped with their therapeutic riding program. During the summers, Megan was a summer camp counselor at YMCA day camps as well as at the Boys and Girls Club. Megan completed her internship at Imagine! in Lafayette, Colorado where she found her passion for community-based therapy. There, she planned and implemented community-based activities for adults and children with developmental and intellectual disabilities. She was a volunteer coach for the Imagine! Special Olympics Softball team. During her internship, she obtained her certification to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Therapist (CTRS). **Megan is excited to leave a lasting positive impact through fun and leisure in the lives of the individuals she works with.

Kalisha Gilmore, CTRS

Kalisha Gilmore graduated from Indiana Tech in May of 2024 with her Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy. While attending Indiana Tech, she was a member of the Women's lacrosse team. Also in college, Kalisha spent time at GiGi's Playhouse assisting with teaching classes over basic needs as well as setting up events. Kalisha completed her internship with Pure Abilities working with individuals of various ages with a wide range of disabilities and obtained her certification afterwards. Her hobbies include: music, sports/exercise, crafts, board games, and hanging out with her pet tortoise. She is excited to start a new chapter in Fort Wayne by using her skills to be able to help clients improve their leisure experience and overall quality of Life.

Lili Argueta, CTRS

Lili graduated from Indiana University Bloomington in July 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy. During her college career she was president of the Recreational Therapy Club, which focuses on engaging students, outside of the classroom, who are majoring in recreational therapy. She also volunteered for IU’s Adapted Physical Activity Program that served children with disabilities in Monroe County.

Lili completed her internship with Pure Abilities working alongside Michelle Termine and her clients in the Southside of Indianapolis. After graduation she obtained her certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS). She has a passion for helping individuals improve their quality of life and achieve their goals through recreation and leisure.

Daphne Kalimon, CTRS

Daphne graduated from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy and a minor in Psychology. While in school, she gained experience working with individuals of various ages with a wide range of disabilities as a student worker at Storm Harbor Equestrian Center at SRU. Daphne completed her internship at Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center and had the opportunity to work with Recreational Therapists on various units including Aquatic Therapy, Spinal Cord Injury, Mental Health, and Acute Physical Rehab. Shortly after her internship, she obtained her certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Daphne is excited to build connections here in Fort Wayne and to share her passion for leisure and recreation to improve quality of life and all-around wellness for those she serves.

Kaitlyn Melnyk, CTRS

Kaitlyn graduated from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania in May 2020 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Recreational Therapy with a minor in Animal Assisted Interventions. As a student at SRU she worked with adolescents with autism at Storm Harbor Equestrian Center. Also in college she had the opportunity to work with people with a wide range of disabilities in different populations. Kaitlyn completed her internship with Presbyterian SeniorCare Network at Oakmont. Working with the organization Dementia 360, she created a virtual chair yoga session for older adults living at home with Dementia. After her internship Kaitlyn obtained her certification as Certified Therapeutic Specialist (CTRS). Kaitlyn worked with older adults in personal care and memory care settings, which provided her the opportunity to really connect with residents and their family members using their past experiences and interests with reminisce therapy and helping maintain a positive quality of life. I am excited to be a part of the Fort Wayne Community and use my past experiences to connect with individuals and help them improve their quality of life through recreation and leisure.

Nicole Fritch, CTRS

Nicole Fritch graduated from the University of Iowa in 2016 with her Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy and shortly after obtained her Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certification. Throughout college Nicole volunteered with Big Brother Big Sister, Ronald McDonald House, and Four Oaks (a residential non-profit child welfare, juvenile justice, and behavioral health agency); as well as working with The Arc of Southeast Iowa. Nicole completed her internship at Winnebago Mental Health Institute in Wisconsin, in a pediatric psychiatric hospital. Throughout her college and professional career Nicole has worked with various disability populations-TBI, Developmental Disabilities, Behavioral Disabilities, Psychiatric Disabilities and Physical Disabilities across Pediatrics, Adults and Geriatrics. She enjoys sports, being active, outdoor activities, and music. Her passion for connecting with her clients keeps her motivated to positively impact their lives, and to continue progressing in the field of Recreational Therapy.

Nora Thompson, CTRS/LRT

Nora graduated Magna Cum Laude from East Carolina University, in North Carolina, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Recreational Therapy in May 2022. While in college, she was the secretary for the Recreational Therapy Student Society. She also volunteered with the local school system assisting children with disabilities during school P.E. Nora did her internship at Cypress Glen Retirement Community working with the geriatric population. After graduation, Nora shortly obtained her Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certification, and North Carolina state licensure as a Licensed Recreational Therapist. Nora worked with older adults at a skilled nursing facility for a little under two years post graduation. She is so excited to branch out and expand her knowledge and skills of Recreational Therapy working with Pure Abilities. Her passion for recreation and leisure motivates her to improve the lives of the individuals she works with.

Shontae Miller, CTRS

Shontae graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2017 with a Bachelors in Therapeutic Recreation. Her background is working with seniors in the Life Enrichment Department and as the Life Enrichment Director planning for live entertainment, outings, crafts, exercise and special events. She's excited to work with a new population of clients to help them reach their goals, with activity modalities. Her hobbies are arts and crafts, spending time in the pool, listening to music, archery, and spending time with her dogs. She looks forward to improving the function and lives of her clients through play.

Bree Dossen, CTRS

Bree Dossen graduated from Indiana Tech in May of 2024 with her Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy. While attending Indiana Tech, she was a member of the Women's basketball team. Bree completed her internship with Pure Abilities working with a wide variety of clients and obtained her certification during this time. She is a hard worker and has a great mixture of hobbies and interests that include: sports/exercise, crafts, board games, cooking, music, being outdoors, and so much more. Bree is born and raised from Fort Wayne and excited to be on the team. She is ready to use her skills to help improve her clients' qualities of life through meaningful recreation activities.

Erika Foy, CTRS

Bio Coming Soon

Candace Risch, MS, CTRS

Candace graduated with her master's degree in Recreation Therapy from the University of Toledo in 2024. She obtained a bachelor's degree in Health Promotion and Wellness from Indiana Wesleyan University with a minor in Recreation Management in 2004 and worked for 20 years in the health and wellness field teaching, programming, and managing. During those years, several of her jobs led to experiences working in physical fitness and rehabilitation which grew her love for all therapies and the way that intentionality, exercise, strengthening, and stretching can heal, renew, and improve our bodies. She taught yoga for 17 years helping women restore their bodies from injuries and trauma. Then, her work at Turnstone grew her love for adults and children with disabilities. During those years, she also became a mom of 3. Her 3rd child needed 3 therapies a week for several years of his life. As she became a therapy mom, herself, she started to realize the impact that early intervention and therapy had on her son and that gave her the drive and desire to go back to school to learn more about all the different therapies available. Candace grew up overseas in Congo, Africa, lived one year in Canada, 2 years in North Carolina, but has lived the majority of her life in Fort Wayne, Indiana and knows the area well. One thing she loves most about recreational therapy is the variety of therapies that she can pull from to help others achieve their goals!

Leah Jones, CTRS

Leah attended Grand Valley State University and graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation in 2012 and became a CTRS in 2013. During college she volunteered with the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan where she planned, organized, and implemented monthly leisure, social, and craft events. Leah completed her practicum at a therapeutic horseback riding/animal-assisted therapy farm. There she assisted clients of different populations and age groups in the participation of pet-therapy and horse-therapy experience. For the past five years she has worked with the geriatric population first as a program assistant and then as an Activity Director. While working in this setting Leah has led, planned, and implemented daily activities and monthly outings for her residents.

Virginia Wilhelm, CTRS

Virginia Wilhelm graduated from Indiana University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy. She completed her internship at the IU Health Bloomington Hospital in the Behavioral Health Unit. During her gap year she worked as an interventionist at Clearwater Elementary School and an Assistant Cross Country coach at North Central High School in Indianapolis, IN. Virginia is currently in graduate school to get her master’s in occupational therapy at Indiana University South Bend and will complete this program in December of 2025. Virginia is looking forward to using the skills she has gained from past experiences and applying them to her clients to improve their quality of life. She is passionate about the values and benefits of recreational therapy and wants to help engage her clients in challenging their potential in positive leisure activities.

Sophie Johnson, CTRS

Sophie graduated from Indiana State University in May of 2022. Upon completion of her degree she completed her internship in a community based setting for clients on the medicaid waiver. During her gap year, she worked as a behavioral therapist at an ABA clinic, during this time she received her CTRS certification. Sophie hase experience in aquatic fitness and creating recreational interventions for children with all types of disabilities. She has previous experiences working with individuals of all ages. She was recently a Recreational Therapist for ADEC and created personalized goals for clients utilizing the library, games, Wii, swimming, and so much more! She is currently in graduate school at Indiana University South Bend to obtain my masters degree in occupational therapy where she will graduate in December 2025. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her friends and family and taking care of my cat, Cookie. She is eager to continue working as a Recreational Therapist and using my past and current experience to help improve her clients overall daily lives.

Leslee Peeper, CTRS

Leslee Peeper graduated from Indiana Tech in May of 2018 with her Bachelors of Science in Recreational Therapy. She completed her internship at Pure Abilities in the spring of 2018 where she also obtained her certification to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). During her internship she worked directly under the owner, Ethan Pickett, working with individuals of all ages and different developmental and physical disabilities implementing different interventions to meet each particular clients’ needs. In the past, she has taught aquatic therapy to individuals and has also worked for an organization called iCan Shine where she traveled to different camps to teach individuals with disabilities how to ride a conventional two-wheel bicycle. Working in this environment has always been her passion and she is very excited to work with clients to improve their quality of life and help them meet their goals.

Michael Walters, CTRS

Michael Walters graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation. He completed his internship at Kindred Healthcare in Raleigh, North Carolina where he worked with individuals with special needs ranging from ages four to ninety-eight. During his time at UNCW, he volunteered in numerous non-profit special needs programs at Camp Lejeune for children of military families. He volunteered at the YMCA in Wilmington NC at a day camp for special needs children and young teens. Michael is eager to use his skills that he has obtained over the years to help improve the lives of his future clients in both physical and cognitive abilities.

Sonya Hadley, CTRS

Sonya graduated from Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green Kentucky with a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation and a minor in Gerontology. She interned at Tennessee Christian Medical Center in Nashville Tennessee. After graduation, her love for the elderly took her in to long-term care facilities where she managed several activity departments implementing therapeutic activities. Her experience is not limited in serving populations with specific needs in areas such as dual addictions, developmental delayed, cognitive, and physically challenged impairments. Sonya has a strong desire to provide supporting recreational services that enhance individuals best quality of life.

Marissa Coy, CTRS

Marissa Coy received her Bachelors of Science in Recreation and Sports Management from Indiana State University in May of 2023. During her time as an undergraduate, she developed a lesson for the Boy Scouts of America, and created programs for aquatic therapy and expressive arts therapy. She also worked for a YMCA as an After School Care Counselor for children in kindergarten through 6th grade. Marissa has previously volunteered with a Special Recreation Association promoting adaptive sports. She completed her internship with Pure Abilities, under Peter Reyes, in the spring of 2023. She then received her Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certificate that summer. Marissa is very excited to be a part of the Pure Abilities team and cannot wait to develop relationships with clients in a way to help them reach their goals.

Jaydin Pendley, CTRS

Jaydin Pendley received his Bachelors of Science in Recreational Therapy from Indiana State University in August of 2023. While completing his degree, he volunteered his time to a nursing and rehabilitation center for geriatric adults back in his hometown. He also completed shadowing hours there when shadowing an MDS coordinator. For his internship, he went to Bradford Woods and worked with children and adults with cognitive and physical diagnosis. Once completing his internship, Jaydin obtained his CTRS certification, and he is super excited to be a part of a community to enhance the quality of life of the individuals around him!