About Us
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Our Mission
At Creative Approach Development Center (CADC), we believe people with disabilities and mental health needs deserve support that is practical, respectful, culturally responsive, and rooted in dignity.
CADC provides person-centered services, training, workshops, and resources for individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals. Our work is grounded in disability justice, mental health advocacy, and the belief that communities become stronger when everyone has access to the tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.
We are especially committed to uplifting people whose voices are too often overlooked, including Black disabled people, people with mental health needs, and individuals with intersecting identities who face additional barriers to care, inclusion, and opportunity.
Our History
Founded in 2015 by Dr. Zipporah Levi-Shackleford, PBSF, Creative Approach Development Center was created from both professional experience and lived experience. As a sibling to and mother of individuals with disabilities, Dr. Levi-Shackleford saw firsthand the barriers faced by people with disabilities and mental health diagnoses, their families, and underrepresented communities seeking support, understanding, and opportunity.
Since then, CADC has grown into a space for person-centered support, training, advocacy, and education that helps individuals, families, caregivers, and organizations better understand needs, strengthen skills, and create supportive environments. CADC’s work is shaped by both professional knowledge and lived experience. Our leadership and team include people who understand disability, mental health, caregiving, and support systems not only through their work, but through their own lives and families.
At the heart of CADC is the belief that every person has value, every support plan should honor dignity, and every individual deserves the opportunity to recognize their strengths, build skills, and live a life that reflects their goals.
Dr. Zipporah Levi-Shackleford, PBSF
Founder & Director of Support Services
Dr. Zipporah Levi-Shackleford, “Dr. Z,” is the founder of Creative Approach Development Center and a passionate advocate, educator, and Positive Behavior Supports Facilitator (PBSF) specializing in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, mental health, trauma-informed care, and dual diagnosis support.
Her work is shaped by professional training, lived experience, and a deep commitment to helping people receive support that centers their dignity, strengths, communication, and real-life needs. Through CADC, Dr. Z equips individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals with practical tools, inclusive strategies, and person-centered guidance that can be used in everyday situations.
Dr. Z’s mission is to build understanding, strengthen support systems, and create meaningful change in communities that too often overlook disabled people, people with mental health needs, and the families and teams who support them.
Makahla Jackson
Program Manager & Disability Consultant
Makahla Jackson joined Creative Approach Development Center in 2023 as Community Engagement Manager and now serves as Program Manager and Disability Consultant. She brings a strong background in Black disability history, advocacy, and community education, along with lived experience as a Disabled woman.
Makahla’s work is rooted in disability justice, equity, and a commitment to amplifying voices that are too often overlooked. Through her leadership, she helps strengthen CADC’s programs, build community connections, and support learning opportunities that honor the experiences, strengths, and needs of disabled people and marginalized communities.
Her insight, creativity, and commitment to meaningful change make her an essential part of CADC’s mission.
T'ziyon Levi-Shackleford
Executive Assistant and Trainer
T’ziyon Levi-Shackleford serves as Executive Assistant and Trainer at Creative Approach Development Center. In his role, he supports CADC’s daily operations, training preparation, communication, and program coordination while helping ensure that workshops and services run smoothly.
As a trainer, T’ziyon brings a thoughtful and approachable presence to CADC’s learning spaces. He supports training efforts focused on skill-building, self-advocacy, community engagement, and practical tools that individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals can use in real life.
T’ziyon’s work reflects CADC’s commitment to creating welcoming, accessible, and person-centered spaces where people feel respected, supported, and encouraged to grow.
Email: Info@CreativeApproachOnline.com
Great News!
Some CADC services and caregiver workshops may be covered through the DD Waiver when included in the person’s plan and approved through the authorization process. Contact us to learn more about available options.