ALIVE TEAM

Kandice serves as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the ALIVE Not-for-profit Center. Pioneering a unique approach, ALIVE is the first organization of its kind, dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for learning, sharing, and discovery, allowing individuals to connect with what truly makes them come alive. The merger with NaperBridge in January 2015 has further fortified ALIVE’s teen program, enhancing its impact on the community.

Transitioning from a successful 25+ year corporate career at Accenture and IBM, Kandice is now passionately pursuing her true calling as a Life Coach and Certified Yoga Teacher (CYT). A graduate of Life Coaching school, Coach for Life, Kandice is also a certified Heal Your Life Workshop Leader, delving into the teachings of Louise Hay. With a 200hr CYT from Moksha Yoga in Chicago, she is actively pursuing her 500hr CYT through ParaYoga under the guidance of Rod Stryker. Her educational journey includes a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois.

Kandice’s commitment to helping individuals create the life they desire is not just a professional pursuit but a personal mission rooted in her diverse skill set and rich background. ALIVE is a testament to her dedication to making a positive impact on the community through holistic and transformative experiences.

Elisa has been at Alive for 5 years as Manager of the Operations Department. Throughout her
long career, she has found herself wearing many hats, and expanding and honing her skills in
operations, human resources and accounting. She is a founding member of a local not-for-
profit that serves families, and was on their board of directors and an officer for many years.
She has found her passion being involved in an organization that works with teens and allows
them to grow and reach their potential. Elisa is married and enjoys traveling and spending time
with her family.

Amy has a Master’s Degree in Teaching and a Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology. She has worked the past 10 years writing inspirational children’s books and traveling to schools across the U.S. empowering kids and adults to focus on the power of their everyday kindnesses. Prior to that, she was an Area Leader for a Direct Sales Company inspiring her team of over 100 consultants. She has worked in the schools teaching and mentoring students, and currently runs The Kindness Gala Foundation with her husband and Kindness Ambassadors. She loves being around kids and making sure they know how much they matter.

Active in her community, Nicole is a dedicated member of the Glen Ellyn Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She has also taken on the role of co-chair for their Annual Youth Summit for several years. Nicole is deeply passionate about leveraging her knowledge and background to support others while embracing new and diverse experiences. Beyond her professional pursuits, she finds joy in planning events and exploring new destinations with her family. Nicole is happily married and takes pride in being the mother of four children.

With 17 years of dedicated experience as a mental health professional, Alex has been instrumental in supporting at-risk youth. His focus has involved working with inner-city adolescents and DCFS wards of the state in Chicago and the western suburbs. Alex holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Illinois State University, specializing in adolescents with mental illness and behavior disorders.

Throughout his career in the social work field, Alex has worn various hats, transitioning from a Recreational Therapist to a Unit Supervisor for a Residential Group Home, and further advancing to roles such as Treatment Team Coordinator and Milieu Treatment Manager. His multifaceted approach reflects his commitment to fostering resiliency in youth.

Alex’s engagement goes beyond traditional roles; he actively utilizes his musical skills, humor, passion for life, and empathetic listening to connect with young individuals. Whether in his capacity as a professional or through his personal attributes, Alex remains dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the youth he serves.

Olivia holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology from Concordia University Chicago and has a 200hr yoga teacher certification. Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at Benedictine University, she brings a unique blend of academic knowledge and holistic wellness practices to her endeavors. With a background in mentorship and mental health advocacy, Olivia is committed to uplifting youth and promoting mental well-being. She empowers teens to achieve their goals and supports their growth in ways that align with their individual needs.

Becky Pundy is former the Founder/Executive Director of Respite Endowment Organization, a private 501c3, which provided respite services and support to families of children with special needs in Naperville and surrounding areas. Respite Endowment Organization merged with Little Friends Inc., in 2019 to become the 5th program of service to the agency. Becky worked with, trained and supervised teen volunteers as mentors for the duration of her respite programs. Becky has a public speaking, staff/volunteer training and business development background. She has also volunteered as a Parent Mentor in District 203, is certified by ISBE as a Parent Education Partner and worked for Illinois state agency PACT Inc., as a Parent Liaison. Becky has a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Rider University.