Everyone has the power to give back and do good.

Mission

Can’d Aid’s people-powered programs provide tools and access for under-resourced communities to lead healthy, active, and creative lives.

  • We have also...

    Recycled the equivalent of 73 million cans.

  • For deserving youth, we have...

    Built 20,500 bikes and skateboards.

  • And that’s not to mention having...

    Donated 3,950 instruments.

Our team.

Founder + Executive Director

Diana Hicks

She oversees all aspects of the growing nonprofit’s activities, including honing the big picture vision, keeping the Board informed and engaged, securing new partners and working to launch innovative programs. Diana’s many years of experience in the nonprofit sector, and her unconventional and entrepreneurial approach are changing the way people think about philanthropy. Hardwired to create a culture of connection, her passion and enthusiasm are contagious and have helped propel Can’d Aid to the next level.

Senior Director of Engagement

Sara Hannafin

Sara Hannafin is Can’d Aid’s Senior Director of Engagement. With over 20 years of development and engagement work for national and global nonprofits, Sara has a demonstrated commitment to building authentic relationships to secure diverse and lasting funding streams for the organization. She partnered with Can’d Aid at her previous position in the disaster relief field and was drawn to the mission long before she started working with us.

Sara has two incredible daughters, a mutt named Papa Max, and lives along the shoreline of Southern Connecticut.

Director of Communications + Engagement

Alyssa Lile

Alyssa develops and implements communication strategies to ensure that Can’d Aid’s mission is represented through effective, cohesive and consistent messaging across all platforms. She also produces supporter communications including emails, newsletters and impact reports. In collaboration with the Senior Director of Engagement, she executes fundraising initiatives and develops strategies for donor cultivation and stewardship. Alyssa’s dedication to authentic communication and connection prioritizes meaningful relationships with Can’d Aid supporters and team members.

Director of Programs

Logan Firehammer

Logan oversees the long-term growth of all Can’d Aid’s signature programs and develops pilot programs in direct response to community needs. She contributes to strategic planning, leads the program team, and implements monitoring and evaluation efforts. Her background in education and passion for learning fuel her efforts to continually strengthen Can’d Aid’s core programs.

Marketing Manager

Abbi Arneson

Abbi manages and implements creative and marketing needs for Can’d Aid, as well as coordinating public-facing programming. She oversees the long-term growth of our Music + Arts program and is continually working to streamline Can’d Aid’s behind-the-scenes program operations. Her passion for getting creative and empowering the next generation propels her efforts to continually strengthen Can’d Aid’s core programs.

Program + Community Engagement Manager

Josie Johnston

Josie coordinates and manages the program-related aspects of our corporate relationships, community partnerships, and volunteer engagement She assists in strengthening and streamlining programs, processes, and community outreach initiatives. Josie also manages and creates content for all of Can’d Aid’s social media platforms. Coupled with her previous experience in outdoor education and the non-profit sector, Josie’s love of learning and taking on new challenges makes her a perfect fit for Can’d Aid’s fast-paced environment.

But We Can’t
Do It Alone!

Get Involved Today