CAW's for a Cause
We are here to provide relief to victims of trauma.
We will walk you through steps available to see what kind of help you already qualify for, refer you to proper resources, and we will be here to cover what's left over.
We will be your guide, show you accessible service networks in Macomb County that are available to help you.
Founders
of CAWs
Emily E. Shankie
Partner
Emily was born in Macomb County and raised in St. Clair Shores. She is the co-founder and Executive Director of CAWs since 2021. She has a Bachelors of Science degree in Health Science from Oakland University and Masters degree in Public Health. She is currently working on her Doctorate in Public Health, majoring in Health Policy. Emily's mother was a victim of domestic abuse, which has led her on a path to prevent others from experiencing abuse.
Samantha R. Simons
Partner
Samantha was born and raised in Southwest Detroit before moving to St. Clair Shores. She is the co-founder and Executive Director of CAWs since 2021. She has a Bachelors of Science degree from Oakland University, and Masters degree in Clinical Research Administration from Eastern Michigan University. She has many certifications, mainly addressing clinical trials and patient safety/privacy. She also has publications in partnership with University of Michigan & Henry Ford Health System.
Founding Board Members
of CAWs
Meghan Harper-Shankie
Meghan Harper-Shankie is a physician who is passionate about child development and engages in advocacy around issues which affect youth and families. She is a St. Clair Shores resident and has been a member of CAWs since 2021. She has a Bachelors degree from the University Of Michigan and earned her MD at MSU College of Human Medicine. She is board Certified in Pediatrics and Neurology & Psychiatry, with special certification in Child Neurology.
Erin E. Shankie
President
Erin Shankie is a team and leadership consultant who is passionate about working with nonprofits. Erin holds a Bachelors degree in Dietetics from Michigan State University, Masters in Education-Instruction from Central Michigan University, Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Diversity Management in Sport from the University of Connecticut, and is currently working on her PhD in Organizational Leadership from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Jacqueline M. DuPuy
Jacqueline is a fierce advocate for women's issues, mental health and suicide awareness. She also has a passion for helping others with over 15 years in healthcare and a background in social work. She has a Bachelor's Degree from Wayne State University in Social Work and a Masters in Community Health Education.
Mariann F. Lichocki
Treasurer
Mariann is a natural leader, supports many local charities, and a community warrior working on programs with CAWs. She has resided in Macomb County her entire life. She became a member of CAWs to give back to her community and support resources to help those in unsafe surroundings, as well as prevent further abuse or trauma. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Walsh College and is in the process of completing her CPA certification.
Alicia Bianchi
Alicia Bianchi is a Friend of the Court Referee in Wayne County Circuit Court. She began her legal career providing holistic legal services to survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Spending time as a Judicial Attorney for the Third Circuit Court, Alicia moved to a law firm where she focused her practice exclusively on family law matters. Alicia is a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and also serves on the board of the Wayne County Family Law Bar Association.
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How can you help?
We are a privately funded registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, make a tax deductible donation! This donation will help support a survivor.