Terri English-Yancy, BA, MA, MA,
Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Bringing over 30 years of experience in program policy, fiscal management, and strategic planning, Terri champions the success of Essential Families. Known for her data-driven approach and commitment to positive outcomes, she effectively oversees compliance and financial matters within Essential Families, making strategic decisions that enhance operational efficiency and delegating tasks appropriately.

Her leadership has been pivotal in the development of critical child and family services, particularly through the Essential Digital Opportunity Program, which aims to bridge the digital divide. Terri holds two Master’s degrees, one in Management and Leadership and another in Curriculum and Instruction/Early Childhood, alongside a Bachelor’s in Child & Family Development.

As a former board member of Nurture KC, she has demonstrated her commitment to collaboration and community engagement. Terri’s diverse expertise and dedication make her a transformative leader, positively impacting the lives of children and families in the Kansas City area. As a results-driven leader, known for her strong communication skills and collaborative approach, Terri has successfully secured significant funding, including grants from the United Way and the Kauffman Foundation.

Terri is dedicated to creating a culture of transparency and accountability while fostering positive relationships with stakeholders, ensuring that Essential Families continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families.

Tara Garrison, MBA, PMP
Chief Operating Officer

Tara Garrison is a seasoned executive with over 15 years of experience in program and project management, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer of Essential Families. With a strong background in healthcare and technology sectors, Tara brings a wealth of expertise in developing and leading portfolios, programs, and projects for both commercial healthcare and startup companies.

As a Certified Project Management Professional, Tara excels in implementing program management methodologies, fostering effective stakeholder communication, and leading international teams to successful software implementations and new product introductions. Her skills in people leadership, continuous improvement, and knowledge management have consistently earned her recognition throughout her career.

In her role as COO at Essential Families, Tara likely leverages her extensive experience in project management, change management, and operations management to drive organizational efficiency and growth. Her proven track record in managing multi-million dollar portfolios and implementing actionable program plans positions her well to lead Essential Families' operational strategies and ensure the company's success in the family services sector.

Nelko Mahlyanov, MBA, CPA, CMA
Chief Financial Officer

Nelko Mahlyanov is a highly accomplished financial management executive with over a decade of experience leading organizations toward financial stability and growth. Holding an MBA and certifications as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Nelko brings a unique combination of strategic vision, technical expertise, and operational excellence to his work.

Throughout his career, Nelko has demonstrated exceptional leadership in diverse roles, including Chief Financial Officer, Head of Finance, and Interim/Fractional CFO. He has successfully guided organizations through complex challenges, such as mergers and acquisitions, financial system transformations, and fundraising for early-stage initiatives. Nelko has also excelled in implementing innovative financial strategies, improving internal controls, and enhancing operational efficiencies.

Adept at building strong relationships with key stakeholders, Nelko has collaborated with boards, investors, and executive teams to develop and execute impactful financial plans. He is passionate about fostering organizational resilience and leveraging financial leadership to create meaningful impact.

Alexis Benshoff
Director, Accounting and Bookkeeping

Alexis Benshoff is a skilled bookkeeper and financial expert with a strong passion for numbers and fostering relationships. As the Director of Accounting and Bookkeeping at Essential Families, she oversees financial operations and ensures accurate financial reporting, contributing to the organization’s mission of supporting families in need. With three years of experience preparing financial statements and managing accounts at 1800-Accountant, Alexis has developed a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of effective bookkeeping practices.

Prior to her current role, Alexis worked at Intuit, where she provided expert assistance to QuickBooks clients across various platforms, including QuickBooks Desktop, Online, and Payroll. Her extensive experience in accounting software and dedication to client satisfaction have equipped her with the skills necessary to streamline financial processes and enhance organizational efficiency. Alexis’s commitment to excellence and her ability to connect with people make her an invaluable asset to the Essential Families team.

Lee Barnes
Chief Governmental Affairs Officer

Lee Barnes, a lifelong Kansas City, Missouri resident and former 5th District At-Large Councilman, has dedicated his career to public service, community development, and economic growth. He holds an engineering degree from Kansas State University and began his professional journey as an industrial engineer at Hallmark Cards before transitioning to small business ownership and nonprofit leadership.

As Director of Operations for Swope Corridor Renaissance/Upper Room, Inc., Barnes played a pivotal role in expanding the organization’s educational and community programs. Under his leadership, the nonprofit grew from a single site to more than 30 locations, serving thousands of children and families. His ability to forge partnerships with local organizations significantly enhanced community resources and opportunities.

In addition to his nonprofit achievements, Barnes has held prominent governmental positions, including serving as an At-Large Member of the Kansas City School District Board of Education and on the Tax Increment Finance Commission. His expertise in public policy, finance, and economic development has made him a strong advocate for underserved communities. Currently, Barnes serves as Chief Governmental Affairs Officer for Essential Families. In this role, he leverages his extensive experience to promote policies and partnerships that drive digital equity, workforce development, and family stability.

Riza Artizuela
Executive Administrator

With 9 years of diverse professional experience, Riza Artizuela is a highly skilled and adaptable Executive Administrator known for her ability to seamlessly manage daily administrative operations. She has mastered a wide array of roles, including Content Writer, Digital Content Coordinator, Copywriter, Social Media Manager, Ghostwriter, and Administrative Manager, earning her the reputation of being a "jack-of-all-trades."

Riza excels in streamlining workflows, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring that executive priorities are efficiently executed. Her expertise in juggling multiple responsibilities with precision and her proactive problem-solving approach make her an indispensable asset to Essential Families’ executive management team. Whether overseeing critical projects and organizing operations, Riza’s dedication to excellence and versatility shines through in everything she does.

Christina Kohn
Chief Rural Essential Economic Mobility Program Officer

Christina Kohn is a seasoned social worker with clinical license since 2005, bringing nearly two decades of experience to her practice. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, including adults, teenagers, and children, across various settings.

Since December 2022, Christina has served as a Digital Case Manager with Essential Families, where she plays a vital role in bridging the digital divide for rural communities. In this capacity, she trains new Digital Case Managers, ensuring they are well-equipped to support families effectively.

Employing a strengths-based approach, Christina focuses on recognizing and building upon the inherent capabilities of each individual. She is dedicated to meeting clients where they are in their journeys, emphasizing their unique goals and aspirations. Additionally, as an Essential Parenting Educator, she provides valuable resources to families, fostering environments that nurture growth and resilience. Christina’s compassionate approach and unwavering dedication make her a trusted ally for those seeking guidance and support.

Mikia Johnson
Director, Family and Community Engagement

Mikia Johnson is a dedicated and results-driven professional with expertise in leadership, digital advocacy, and community engagement. Mikia is passionate about bridging the digital divide and enhancing access to technology for underrepresented communities. She graduated summa cum laude from Bethune-Cookman University with a degree in Business Administration, where she developed a strong foundation in problem-solving, project management, and strategic planning.

Mikia has worked as a Digital Case Manager with Essential Families and a Client Service Specialist at AVO Transportation & Language Solutions. In these roles, she has empowered communities with digital literacy, managed high-volume client communications, and provided personalized assistance to address the technological needs of diverse populations. Mikia is committed to fostering digital equity and driving meaningful change in the communities she serves.

Nicole Cloutier, MBA
Director, Carrie AI Agent Trainer and Prompt Engineering, Digital Case Manager Trainer

Growing up in rural New Hampshire, Nicole Cloutier developed a strong commitment to connection, equity, and access.

With nearly 20 years of experience in hospitals, health tech, and mission-driven organizations, she excels in operational strategy, training, and user experience.

Nicole leads value-based training and onboarding programs, consults in marketing, digital equity, and operations, and empowers teams to grow with clarity and care.

She creates inclusive, human-centered experiences, making AI tools approachable and empowering for diverse users, and is dedicated to advancing Essential Families clients with expert guidance and continuous support.