News Room

A New Chapter Begins
A message from CEO Alex Nocella


As I step into the role of CEO, my vision is to build on this momentum—not by changing who we are, but by helping us become the strongest version of ourselves. I envision a Shared Wellness that continues to grow thoughtfully, embraces innovation, develops future leaders, expands opportunities for the people we support, and serves as a model for person-centered care throughout Pennsylvania. We will remain grounded in our mission while pursuing new possibilities, strengthening our organizational capacity, and ensuring that every decision reflects our commitment to wellness, dignity, inclusion, and meaningful outcomes. 

Just as importantly, we will not sit back and watch the people we support be left behind by advances in technology, ineffective healthcare systems, public policy, or innovation that doesn’t consider their unique needs. We have a responsibility to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have access to the same opportunities, tools, resources, and quality of life advancements available to everyone else. Shared Wellness will continue to embrace innovation, explore new models of support, leverage technology thoughtfully, and advocate for meaningful change when systems fall short. We will be on the front lines—working alongside individuals, families, providers, and policymakers—to help shape a future that is more inclusive, more accessible, and more responsive to the needs of the people we serve. The founders of this organization have never been content to simply react to change; their goal is to help lead it.

While we are excited about what is possible, our future is not built on ideas alone—it is built on initiatives already in motion. As we move forward, we will maintain a firm grip on the priorities that are strengthening Shared Wellness today while continuing to pursue new opportunities for tomorrow. We are increasing our ability to welcome and support more individuals across Southeastern Pennsylvania through thoughtful growth and expanded admissions. We are enhancing our nursing, clinical, and interdisciplinary services, bringing additional expertise into the organization and continuing to build a comprehensive wellness network that better addresses the complex needs of the people we support. We are investing in the development of our workforce through stronger training programs, expanded learning opportunities, and a commitment to professional growth that prepares our team for the future of service delivery. We are also deepening relationships with community leaders, healthcare partners, educational institutions, and mission-aligned organizations to broaden our network, diversify opportunities, and strengthen our long-term sustainability. These efforts are already underway and represent the next chapter of Shared Wellness' evolution. 

    Our goal is not simply to sustain what we have built—it is to scale it. We will continue exploring innovative service models, strategic partnerships, new business opportunities, and emerging technologies that allow us to expand our impact beyond traditional boundaries. We want to create an organization that not only responds to challenges but helps shape the future of supports and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By combining strong operational foundations with innovation, strategic growth, and mission-driven leadership, we are positioning Shared Wellness to influence systems, expand opportunities, and create lasting change for the people and communities we serve. 

‍   ‍ The future of Shared Wellness is bright. We have accomplished a great deal together, but the most exciting part is that we are just getting started. With a strong foundation, a clear strategic direction, a willingness to embrace change, and an extraordinary team committed to our mission, I am confident that the years ahead will bring new opportunities to grow our impact, strengthen our organization, and ensure that the people we support are not only included in the future—but are empowered to help shape it.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we will continue to invest in our people—because our future success depends on the dedication, talent, and heart of the team that makes our mission possible every day. Together, we will build an organization that is stronger, more innovative, more sustainable, and more influential than ever before. Remember, the future of Shared Wellness is bright—not only because of what we have accomplished, but because of what we will accomplish next.

      Are you with me?

-Alex Nocella

A professional woman with short dark hair and a turtleneck sweater smiling against a white and green background with text introducing her as the new Chief Executive Officer of Shared Wellness, featuring the company logo at the top.

The Vision That Built Shared Wellness

We’re honored to be featured by BucksCo Today in a story reflecting on the partnership and purpose that shaped Shared Wellness. The article highlights the legacy of founders John Thvedt, PhD, Christine Martin, and Ken Gibat—and the values of dignity, connection, and care that continue to guide our work.

Read the full story →

The Quiet Architecture of Safety

We’re honored to be featured by BucksCo Today for our work in wellness and community connection.

Read the full story →

Shared Wellness is expanding into Phoenixville!

We’re partnering with Adaptive Healing, an inclusive yoga studio, to bring behavioral supports, small groups, and more into Western Montco and Northern Chesco.

Learn More

Honoring a Legacy: John Thvedt’s Retirement Marks a New Chapter for Shared Wellness

After more than five decades of transformative leadership in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/A), John Thvedt, our beloved CEO, is retiring. His legacy will continue to guide the next generation of healing, advocacy, and empowerment at Shared Wellness.

Learn More

Exploring the Future of Independence: Our Assistive Tech Team Visits a Smart Home

From talking fridges to robotic helpers, the future of independent living is here—and it’s smarter than ever. Our Assistive Tech Team stepped inside a Smart Home to see what’s possible, and the discoveries were nothing short of exciting.

Learn More

State Representative Melissa Cerrato Endorses New Shared Wellness Center in Warrington

In a recent meeting with Shared Wellness leadership, Rep. Cerrato applauded the organization’s mission to create inclusive, community-based support systems. Drawing on her own experience as a caregiver and public servant, she expressed deep understanding of the challenges families and providers face—particularly when funding for critical services is in jeopardy.

Learn More

Building a Center of Care—One Gathering at a Time

With Medicaid support at risk, Shared Wellness is taking action to protect and sustain the Wellness Center—our hub for whole-person care, connection, and healing—along with the future of home-based services. But this isn’t just about funding. It’s about standing together to secure a future where the people we support and care for can thrive. And we’re doing it the way that works: through community. Inclusion starts with access—and we’re excited to bring these values home.

Learn More

Celebrate Culture Through Creativity: January’s Culture Craft Series

At Shared Wellness, we believe that creativity is a powerful way to connect with history, culture, and one another. Throughout January, we hosted a Culture Crafts series, offering hands-on projects that celebrated important historical milestones and traditions. These sessions provided an opportunity for participants to learn, reflect, and create while honoring diverse cultural experiences.

Learn More

Shared Wellness recognized by the Eagle's Community Redzone

Shared Wellness was proud to be recognized by the Philadelphia Eagles during their recent RedZone Community Game, an event that celebrates organizations making a positive impact in their communities. Chris Martin, President of Shared Wellness, accepted the honor on behalf of our organization.

Learn More

Designing Wellness: A Safe, Inclusive Space for Healing and Growth

Shared Wellness was proud to be recognized by the Philadelphia Eagles during their recent RedZone Community Game, an event that celebrates organizations making a positive impact in their communities. Chris Martin, President of Shared Wellness, accepted the honor on behalf of our organization.

Learn More

Shared Wellness Center is Officially Underway!

This project reflects our deep commitment to creating a space rooted in Trauma-Informed Care principles - a space that prioritizes peace, calm, and healing for everyone who enters

Learn More

New Wellness Center - Opening Fall 2025

Exciting News! We're thrilled to announce that we will soon begin a major transformation of our administrative office, expanding it into the Shared Wellness Center - A therapeutic space designed to inspire peace and self-care

Learn More

December is Human Rights Month

Our president, Christine Martin, shared an inspiring reminder of how dignity, respect, and individual rights guide our mission every day.

Together, we have the power to promote these rights and continue to remove barriers. Let's make every day an opportunity to uphold this vital cause. #Dignity&Respect #UN

Learn More

Newsletters