Cortney's Place is a family-founded non-profit, providing an inclusive, stimulating, and meaningful community-based day program for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
In 1985, Jim and Cindy Carpenter welcomed their firstborn child, Cortney. Born with multiple complications, she endured numerous life-threatening operations in the first weeks of her life. Despite being diagnosed with congenital nervous system malformations, leaving her non-verbal, non-ambulatory, and unable to care for herself, Cortney grew and faced each challenge with strength, dignity, and determination. When Cortney turned 22 and was ready to move on from the school-based program she had attended, the Carpenters began their search for a safe, nurturing, and engaging day program for Cortney. They were disappointed to discover that most day programs were underfunded, uninviting, and only able to offer limited activities.
As a result, in 2007, the Carpenters founded Cortney’s Place– a safe, engaging, and innovative environment for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) who have graduated from the public-school system. By offering a center-based day program, Cortney’s Place provides the re-enforcement necessary to ensure that each individual maximizes their potential.
Today, Cortney’s Place is a specialized day program for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Cortney’s Place curriculum components include Music Therapy, Healthy Cooking, Hydrotherapy, Pet Therapy, Health and Wellness Programs, Art Classes, and Technology Classes. We strive to ensure that the individuals participating are stimulated cognitively, physically and socially to meet their personal goals, to work toward becoming more self-sufficient, and to elevate their overall personal potential.
Chairman of the Board
Vice Chairman of the Board
Finance Chairman
Director
Director
Executive Director
Sarah Levin is a dedicated nonprofit executive. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Sarah has held leadership roles at both the local and national level, consistently building and leading high-performing teams and advancing organizational excellence.
Sarah is known for her passion for building strong communities and creating lasting impact. Throughout her career, she has successfully led mission-driven initiatives, fostered meaningful partnerships, and executed strategic plans that have strengthened services and expanded reach.
She holds a B.A. in Communication and Sociology from the University of Arizona and completed graduate studies in Nonprofit Leadership at the ASU Lodestar Center. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to connection, and the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive. Sarah’s leadership is marked by a collaborative spirit, a focus on results, and a drive to cultivate environments where people and programs can flourish.
When she’s not working, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband, their children, and their two loving goldendoodles.
Business & Development Director
Dana brings over 10 years of experience in sales and fundraising, combining a passion for people with a proven track record of success across the nonprofit worlds. Known for her strategic mindset and heart-led approach, Dana has led countless initiatives—from securing corporate sponsorships to launching creative fundraising campaigns that drive real impact.
Her ability to build lasting relationships, communicate with purpose, and exceed goals has made her a go-to leader for organizations looking to grow their reach and strengthen their communities. Dana thrives on collaboration, connection, and creating opportunities that matter.
When she’s not cultivating partnerships or championing a cause, Dana is likely brainstorming the next big idea that brings people together for a greater purpose.
Operations Director
Hannah brings over a decade of experience working with adults with disabilities, a passion that began in high school when she volunteered alongside a music therapist to support students in special education. Inspired by those early experiences, she pursued a Bachelor of Social Work at Illinois State University, followed by a Master of Social Work at Aurora University.
Through her academic internships, Hannah gained diverse experience supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across various residential settings. Her career has since spanned case management and operations management, including oversight of 24-hour residential group homes. While in Illinois, she obtained her Licensed Social Worker (LSW) credential, further demonstrating her commitment to the field.
Hannah is recognized for her compassion, strong rapport-building skills, and unwavering dedication to client advocacy. She prioritizes empowering individuals to advocate for themselves and ensuring their voices are heard.
Outside of work, Hannah enjoys spending time with her cat, Chloe, and can often be found with a good book in hand.
Program Director – Scottsdale
Nick is a dedicated and service-driven professional with a diverse background in leadership, culinary arts, and human services. He brings a unique blend of discipline from his time as a U.S. Marine, and creativity and care from his years as a chef and instructor for adults with intellectual disabilities. Most recently, He served as a Program Monitor for Arizona’s Department of Economic Security within the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), where he ensured quality services and compliance for individuals across the state. Now, he’s thrilled to bring that experience and passion to my new role and is deeply committed to fostering inclusive environments, leading with integrity, and making a positive impact every day.
Program Director-Phoenix
Alma has devoted much of her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally. As the primary caregiver for her husband during his journey with colon cancer, she gained a profound understanding of compassion, resilience, and the importance of support. She extends that commitment to the community through her volunteer work with Hospice of the Valley, where she provides comfort and care to individuals and families in need. Professionally, Alma has served the public in meaningful ways, including her work during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she provided testing and assistance during a critical time of uncertainty. Her ability to connect with people with empathy and respect has been a consistent hallmark of her career.
Outside of her caregiving and professional roles, Alma enjoys arts and crafts, traveling, and exploring different cultures. These experiences continue to inspire her creativity, broaden her perspective, and enrich both her personal and professional growth.
