Let's take a moment to introduce ourselves...
Our names are Nick and Colleen Sheehan and we are the co-founders of The Ability Project (TAP). We are a 501(c)(3) organization providing assistance to the Greater Charlotte, NC area. After participating and volunteering in various non-profits in the Charlotte area, we have been called to do more. So, with the help of some amazing friends, we created TAP in November 2020. We are a group that cares deeply about the kids in our community.
Our Organization's mission is to assist kids with disabilities by providing training resources, funding for medical equipment, and advocating for opportunities for children with disabilities to participate in movement-based activities.
As an Organization we set out to build a community where kids can participate in any activity they desire. Movement is meant for everyone, so we are here to make sure movement is accessible.
The fitness community here in Charlotte is so passionate about movement and having an active lifestyle, that we took a deeper look to see what was available for kids with disabilities. After some research, we found that there are great organizations that provide opportunities to be active if a person is already set up to do so. We also found that there is a gap in communication between community members and those providing the opportunities to be active. We aim to connect and bridge that gap by connecting trainers with kids who need specialized training, provide funding for equipment, and building a community where there are readily available resources and connections to educate and expand the world around us so that kids are set up to succeed in events in our community.
Meet the Team
Nick Sheehan
Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board
1. Tell us a little about yourself
Nick was born and raised in western Massachusetts where he received his B.A. at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst in Political Science with a concentration on International Relations and Minors in Russian Studies and Psychology (2008).
2. What's your professional background?
Nick worked for MassMutual in Springfield, MA on their Product Compliance team from 2008 to 2015. Nick then accepted a Product Compliance job with MetLife and moved to Charlotte, NC in 2015. He was later part of the new company spinoff from MetLife and helped to stand up Brighthouse Financial. While working for Brighthouse Financial he held positions on the Product Compliance team; he was an Underwriter and finished his career with the company on the New Business and Underwriting Innovations team where his extensive knowledge in product compliance had carved his path in product development and later helped to guide efforts in developing industry leading New Business and Underwriting technology applications.
Nick now works full time as the CEO of Reflex Radio, a music and fitness technology company that he and his wife, Colleen Sheehan, co-founded together. Reflex Radio is a platform that allows trainers and coaches to program workouts and the engine will produce a music mix based on the details programmed by the trainer/coach.
Nick is also a professional DJ who has become the go-to DJ for fitness events in the Charlotte, NC area.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
Nick does a substantial amount of charity work with several different organizations in the Charlotte, NC area. He also participates as an adaptive athlete who trains with Jamie Horn of Hygge Fit (Charlotte, NC) who provides health and fitness training to able bodied people as well as people with disabilities. He is also a leader in the amputee community here in Charlotte, speaking to people and support groups who must overcome similar challenges with disabilities. Nick is also a foodie and a bourbon connoisseur. He loves trying new foods and experiencing new bourbons with his wife and friends.
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
Nick and his wife, Colleen, created The Ability Project (TAP), with the help of their friends, to fill a necessary gap in the disability community. Nick was a “Shriner’s kid” and grew up in the hospital due to a birth defect to his right foot (club foot). He had over 20 surgeries by the age of 11. The doctors told Nick and his parents that he would probably never walk, let alone be active and play sports. Through training and perseverance, Nick went on to play 3 varsity sports in high school (baseball, basketball, and soccer) and went on to play some college baseball. He also enjoyed playing volleyball, softball and he boxed for several years. In 2014, Nick had to have his right leg amputated due to peripheral artery disease. Playing sports and being as active as he used to be appeared uncertain in Nick’s future. It wasn’t until he met Dr. Amanda Kloo in 2015 who helped train Nick back into shape so that he could relearn how to play sports and be active again. This experience was eye-opening to Nick. He knew he wanted to be able to provide this same kind of training and accessibility to more people in the disability community. It wasn’t until 2021 where Nick could make this possible with the help of his wife, and friends, when they created The Ability Project. Training with Dr. Kloo opened Nick’s eyes to the needs of the disability community that were missing or not easily accessible. The Ability Project was created to bridge the knowledge gap within the community as well as provide assistance and accessibility to finances and mobility devices to kids who would like to be more active.
Colleen Sheehan
Co-Founder, Vice-Chairman of the Board
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I was born in Charlotte, NC. We moved around the country during my childhood to Kansas, Connecticut, and Virginia before moving back to my home state of North Carolina. Nick and I currently reside in Fort Mill, SC with our fury friends: Calloway, Maddie, and Lola.
2. What's your professional background?
I've always loved numbers and puzzles so I pursued my Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Roanoke College. I work as a Sr. Data Analyst at Brighthouse Financial. I have been with the Company for about 7 years after a brief stint at Wells Fargo. In 2018, Nick and I co-founded the music technology start-up, Reflex Radio. I work as our COO and team realist. We have been busy launching our software platform in hopes to make music a better part of the fitness studio experience. I've volunteered with Beers and Burpees for several years and participated on the planning committee in 2019. My favorite part of BnB is the adaptive athlete heat because I believe everyone should have the opportunity and means to participate in fitness.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
In my down time, I love to workout at HyggeFit, especially when my sister McKenna is there. We tend to dance more than we workout. But I'll leave the dancing to McKenna at the Carolina Panthers games! As for Nick and I, we love to travel and try new culinary experiences. My favorite foods are oysters, tacos, and anything with SC peaches. Not all together though...
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
TAP has always been a dream of ours. We always talked about creating an organization that focuses on kids with disabilities. This organization wouldn't be possible without the help of our friends and family and for this I thank you! I became passionate about advocating for people with disabilities because of my grandfather, Jack Smith. He was stricken with polio at age of 10, spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair. He would always share stories about his own passion and participation in athletics; including track, basketball, skiing, and golf. He was a pioneer for people with disabilities, acting as the Executive Director of the White House Conference on Handicapped Individuals in 1975, serving under Presidents Ford and Carter. He taught us the importance of advocating and educating those around us. I have always shared this passion and look forward to sharing it with my community.
Joelle Rusin
Secretary, Co-Director of the Events Committee
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I'm a Jersey Girl! I was raised in Hunterdon County and then lived in Hoboken (the land of Frank Sinatra, pizza and "mutz". Oh, and the occasional RHONJ spotting). I migrated south to CLT in 2018. While there's less "mutz" and Bravo TV stars, the extended summers, outdoor living, and new friendships have won me over.
2. What's your professional background?
I'm a Professional Dabbler! In general, my professional passion is helping clients, teams and individuals recognize their strengths, opportunities and reach their goals. I kicked off my career at a NYC tech start-up. After that company was acquired, I became a tech management consultant at an Accenture/Microsoft joint venture delivering large workplace modernization programs. After relocating to CLT, I wanted to work where I lived so I started working for a data science product team at Duke Energy, standing up their Change Strategy. Most recently, I became part of Cigna's Strategic Program Delivery team.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
I'm a semi-avid runner (catch me running outside March - October and bundled up at a brewery November - February), plant collector, chronic beach bum and frequent flyer. I love exploring new countries and cultures (especially the food scene). I'm a NY Giants fan and Green Bay Packers friendly (by marriage; plus, sometimes I like to watch a good game).
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
I am honored to be part of the TAP community. TAP is a great opportunity to learn, educate, and provide opportunities to various communities supporting adaptive athletes and the athletes themselves. I am excited to help stand up this organization, be part of the team that ignites it and helps it to take off.
Will Thompson
Treasurer & Member of Events Committee
1. Tell us a little about yourself
Born and raised in Rutherfordton, NC “Small Town Friendly.” I attended UNC-Chapel Hill and graduated in 2012. I moved to Charlotte in 2015 and met my now wife, Rachel, at the Dowd YMCA athletic conditioning class in November of 2016. We were married in May of 2021 and currently still reside in Charlotte with our golden retriever, Bogey.
2. What's your professional background?
I’m a partner with Covenant Advisory Group, a financial planning firm, where I specialize in investment planning and portfolio management. My favorite thing about my job is educating people and seeing client’s financial goals become reality. My dream job, however, is to one day teach high school calculus and coach.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
Golf...I would play everyday if I could, hence my dog’s name. I love Pickleball. It’s a blast and something Rachel and I can have fun doing (and be competitive) together. I also enjoy trying new fitness concepts. In my down time, I listen to many different podcasts. My favorite topics are US History, Finance and Sports.
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
It is a privilege for any human being to have full functionality of their bodies, yet most take this for granted in their daily routines. Admittedly, I was one of those people. Then I had the opportunity to meet Nick Sheehan. We met in December of 2018 and it wasn’t until the second time we met that I realized he had a prosthetic leg. He was wearing pants because it was winter after all. That second meeting, however, I had a chance to hear Nick’s story. It was eye opening to say the least. The part of the story that I’ll never forget is the number of emergency trips Nick and Collen have made to Lowes or Home Depot to find a screw, nut or bolt to keep Nick’s prosthetic from breaking. Most people, as was the case with me, are overwhelmingly uneducated and unaware of the physical, mental, and financial impact having a prosthetic can have on an individual and their supporting family. When Nick asked me to help build an organization where we can make an immediate impact on a young person’s life and spread awareness to our local community and beyond, I was immediately sold. I look forward to working for a great cause with even better people.
Nicole George
Co-Director of Events Committee,
Perpetual Giver through her company Premier Property Solutions
1 & 2. Tell us a little about yourself and your professional background
Nicole George hails from the suburbs of Atlanta. She relocated to Charlotte Metro in 2008 to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Operations. She is now the owner and founder of Premier Property Solutions, a real estate team associated with Keller Williams. Nicole and her team take great pride in providing unmatched 5-star customer service to their buyers, sellers and investors in the greater Charlotte areas. This is accomplished by consistently coming from contribution, under promising and over delivering, remaining relationship-focused, making long-lasting connections, having a workhorse mentality, utilizing a strategic vendor network, and most importantly, giving back to the community. With scalable and reliable systems, teamwork, master negotiating skills and vast industry knowledge, Premier Property Solutions stands out from any other team in the Carolinas.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
When Nicole isn’t serving her clients, she loves trying new restaurants around town, crafting, relaxing with her dogs, traveling, and hanging out with her friends. Her natural ability to connect people, contributions to the community and her determination for the success of everyone around her are just a few things that set her apart in this business.
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
Nicole is passionate about TAP because she wants everyone to embrace their abilities and look past any impairments. She's excited to see this organization take off and help kids pursue their dreams by staying active.
McKenna Hayes
Member of Events Committee
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I am Colleen’s little sister and am fortunate to be able to be a part of this team. Like Colleen, I grew up all across the country, but after graduating from Virginia Tech, I have happily called Charlotte home for the last 5 years! I am excited to go on this journey to impact those that have already impacted me.
2. What's your professional background?
I am an elementary teacher for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools where I get to see the struggles first hand that kids with differences go through. I have always wanted to act on this and happy to say now that I have a way. I am also a member of the TopCats, the Panthers Cheerleaders. Through TopCats, I have been able to mentor Junior TopCats and participate in NFL Play 60 events which have shown me how giving kids the opportunity and resources to play and be active can change their whole demeanor.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
When I am not writing lesson plans or preparing for the sidelines of BoA, you will likely find me gym hopping around Charlotte, taking my dog for car rides, or spending way too much time in the aisles of Trader Joe’s or Homegoods. I love hunting for a good deal! Already dreaming about my next “errand run.”
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
TAP to me is the best way I can say “You Matter.” Everyone has something of value to contribute to themselves but too often, our community with physical and intellectual disabilities is not given the tools, support, or training needed to shine light on all their capable of. I joined TAP because Colleen and Nick need my help to make noise for those that are not represented on teams, in our gyms, or do not have the resources needed to participate in group sports. While attitude and grit is a huge component of overcoming adversity, with TAP, we can help eliminate the many barriers that still remain in the way of inclusion for all people.
Spencer Wolinsky
Member of the Events Committee
1 & 2. Tell us a little about yourself and your professional background
I’ve been in the field of Prosthetics and Orthotics for more than 15 years now, with the first few as a technician. Pretty quickly I found my passion for patient care and made the move towards certification for the clinical side. There are few things better than getting someone back on their feet after a life-changing event such as limb loss.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
When I’m not at Hanger Clinic you can typically find me on a soccer field somewhere around town, playing 3-4 days a week. My wife and I (hi, Mel!) enjoy getting away whenever possible, whether to beaches, cities abroad, or our favorite, Walt Disney World.
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
I’m excited about TAP and seeing how we can positively impact the lives of kids and young adults by providing necessary devices to meet their high-activity demands. Being able to join a team with the goal of doing this for those who might not otherwise receive what they need is a wonderful opportunity and a no-brainer.
Scott Sheehan
Member of Technology & Social Media Committee
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I'm a New England boy at heart who, after living in a few different cities across the country, is happy to be back and planting roots in Providence, RI. Throughout my life I played various sports, from basketball and soccer, to volleyball and rugby, and always loved the comaraderie and friendly competition. I'm a certified goofball whose main guilty pleasure is watching competition reality TV shows, such as "Big Brother", "Survivor", and "RuPaul's Drag Race".
2. What's your professional background?
I went to school for Art/Graphic Design and am now a Senior Relationship Manager at a 401k company...they totally correlate, I know. Majority of my professional career has been at Fortune 500 companies where I've served as a Product Consultant for MetLife, a Regulatory Analyst for MFS Investment Management, and a Business Operations Consultant for MassMutual. In my current role I lead a team of Account Managers for one of our company's largest clients.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
I feel like most people typically answer this question with "I love to hike and be outdoors", but, as evidenced in my first answer above, one of my favorite hobbies is watching TV (haha). Outside of that, I love to travel, hang out with friends and family, try new restaurants or pubs, and, when I get enough free time, I love to get back to my art roots and paint/draw.
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
For me, TAP is the "fairy godmother" that I wish my family had back when my brother and I were growing up. My brother, Nick (TAP's Co-Founder), was born with a club foot, and growing up he wanted to play sports and be active just like all the other kids his age. The only problem was that his club foot hindered the mobility of his ankle, so he had a few more obstacles to overcome than the other kids did. Aside from what the doctors could tell us, we really didn't have a "guiding light" that we could go to for guidance or assistance (and the internet wasn't a thing yet haha). So our family kind of paved our own way, and, through many trials and tribulations, we created our own method of support and guidance, and Nick went on to play 3 varsity sports in high school, and a few pick-up sports in his adult life. I am so honored and excited to be part of an organization that can serve as that "guiding light" for other families going through their own unique situations.
Jamie Horn
Member of the Events Committee
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I’ve worked with children with special needs for over 17 years now and to be involved in a non-profit with some of the biggest hearted people to provide resources, equipment, and access to kids with all types of special needs and their families be supported in becoming more active is truly a dream. I am beyond excited to join my passion for teaching those with special needs and fitness into one loving role of getting everyone moving and feeling happy and strong no matter where their abilities currently lie. I see big, wonderful changes coming to very deserving people, and that makes me extremely happy.
2. What's your professional background?
-Teacher for about 10 years- my certification is in Exceptional Children K-12/ Elementary Ed. K-6/ English
-Personal Trainer/ Speed Agility & Quickness Specialist/ Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism Trainer/ Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist, Adaptive Special Needs Trainer
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
I love creating memories with my friends and family whether it’s traveling to the beach or mountains for getaways, or staying in and lounging in PJs. I love seeing live music and enjoy getting groups of people together to laugh and connect. Working out at hygge FIT & running are definitely hobbies of mine that make me feel really happy and healthy both physically and mentally.
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
The Ability Project is extremely special to me. Being involved in a cause that provides support and a sense of inclusiveness for all people with special needs and focuses on the importance of movement for people’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being is a dream to be a part of. It is extra important for me to find ways for others to help as well. We have more helpers in the world than we think, and I look forward to bringing people together in this cause to prove how our community can show up big time for things of this importance. We are in it together!
Lindsay Brisson
Member of the Technology & Social Media Committee
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I LOVE dad jokes, am obsessed with rainbow sprinkles, and am an outdoor enthusiast. I’m only 5ft but you can always spot me and my colorful curly hair in a crowd! After 30 years of being a Jersey Girl, it was time for a change so in 2021 my husband, 2 dogs, and I moved to Asheville, NC and it already feels like home in the mountains. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I crave biscuits over bagels and say ya’ll instead of you guys.
2. What's your professional background?
Fresh out of college with a BFA in Photography, I started my career as a photo editor at a small publishing company. After 3 years (and 100+ magazines and books) it was time to gain more experience in the photography world, so I became a photo producer at a sleepwear and intimate apparel company. From there I shifted to Creative Project Manager at a fashion company where I’m the team lead for 3 brands handling all material for print and digital.
3. What are some of your favorite hobbies?
I have two extremes - anything outdoors or binging procedural crime dramas on the couch with my dogs! Backpacking is quickly becoming a favorite thing of mine – there’s something empowering about living in the woods, even if it’s only for a night. But don’t get me wrong, I would never give up brunch and an overpriced matcha latte completely!
4. What does TAP mean to you and why?
I’m excited to join TAP as I fully believe that every person is deserving of the right to participate in any movement or activity they desire. It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that is supporting and advocating for kids while also educating the community.
