Who We Are

Dr. Alexis A. Nelson, Ph.D., MSW, LSW, LCCC 

Dr. Alexis A. Nelson’s aspiration has always been to cultivate a nurturing environment for individuals and families facing challenges without adequate resources. Her educational background combined with her personal journey ignited a lifelong dedication to creating a sanctuary for exceptional families.

She holds a Doctorate of Philosophy Christian Counseling, a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Indiana University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Communication. Dr. Nelson is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and a Licensed Clinical Christian Counselor (LCCC), bringing together both clinical expertise and spiritual insight to support the whole person mind, body, and spirit.

Her credentials include:

    •    Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member, Speaker, Teacher, Trainer, and Coach

    •    Certified SYMBIS Facilitator/Trainer (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts)

    •    Ordained Minister & Pastoral Care Specialist

    •    Notary Public

    •    Author & Field Instructor for social work students at Indiana University

As the Founder and CEO of Be Exceptional Support Together (B.E.S.T.) and Coaching Toward Purpose, Dr. Nelson provides comfort, compassion, and resources to individuals and families navigating their unique journeys. She also serves as a Community Engagement Specialist, acting as a liaison to bring valuable programs and partnerships to local communities.

Through her extensive experience as a social worker and her perspective as a parent to a child with exceptional abilities Dr. Nelson has developed a profound empathy and commitment to advocacy. Her faith-driven mission centers on empowering others to embrace their inherent strengths, rediscover their purpose, and walk boldly in their divine calling.

David Enoch Nelson Sr., a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, proudly serves as the CEO of the HELPS Clinic and Resource Center located in Gary, Indiana. Beyond his medical expertise, David is a devoted Pastor who exemplifies the love of God through his compassionate care and by imparting sound doctrine to those he serves.

David's educational journey includes earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University Northwest and a Master of Science in Nursing from Purdue University Calumet. His extensive medical background encompasses various fields, including Emergency Medicine, Information Technology, Acute Care, and Family Practice. With a deep-rooted commitment to serving uninsured or underinsured individuals in inner-city communities, David founded the H.E.L.P.S. Clinic.

Driven by a divine calling, David established the clinic to offer no-cost healthcare services to Gary residents, alongside resources to address diverse aspects of their lives. His mission is to facilitate lifestyle changes by equipping the community with the necessary tools for longevity and wellness. David's dedication extends to community education across all age groups, as he empowers individuals with knowledge to enhance their overall well-being.

David Enoch Nelson Sr. remains unwavering in his resolve to uplift the community, leveraging the transformative power of education to make a lasting impact on the lives of those he serves. 

 Pamela Gipson serves as a valued member of the Board of Directors for Be Exceptional Support Together (B.E.S.T.), where she contributes her dedication to supporting individuals and families within the exceptional abilities community.

Pamela dedicated 29 years to Regional Mental Health, specializing in supporting chronically ill adults and teenagers. Throughout her career, she helped individuals build independence and stability by teaching life skills, offering counseling support, and conducting program reviews. Her work consistently focused on empowering individuals while also providing support to the families who walk alongside them.

In addition to her professional experience, Pamela is known for the wisdom and compassion she offers when counseling and encouraging individuals and families. Drawing from her many years of experience, her insights, and the many roles she has played throughout her life, she provides thoughtful guidance and encouragement to those facing challenges. Her perspective as a mother, grandmother, and community servant allows her to connect with people in meaningful ways and offer support that is both practical and heartfelt.

Pamela also played an active role in community fundraising and program enrichment, building relationships with companies to create opportunities for the individuals she served. She organized special activities such as community banquets and enrichment trips, including visits to Chicago, helping participants experience joy, connection, and inclusion.

Although Pamela retired in 2018, she continues to serve the special needs and mental health community with dedication. As a member of the B.E.S.T. Board of Directors, she remains a steadfast advocate and supporter, bringing her experience, wisdom, and compassionate heart to the organization’s mission.

Teri Houk serves as a valued member of the Board of Directors for Be Exceptional Support Together (B.E.S.T.), where she contributes her extensive healthcare knowledge and commitment to community service to help advance the organization’s mission of supporting individuals with exceptional abilities and their families.

Teri brings over 34 years of experience in the healthcare field as a dedicated nurse, providing compassionate care and support to individuals and families across a wide range of health needs. Her long-standing career reflects a deep commitment to improving the well-being of others and advocating for quality care within the community.

In addition to her clinical experience, Teri has served as advisory board secretary at Faith Temple of Christ for the past eight years, where she plays an important leadership role in supporting ministry operations and community engagement initiatives. Through this work, she has helped strengthen organizational systems while supporting programs that serve families in need.

Teri also serves in Resource and Development, where she actively builds relationships with community organizations, partners, and service providers. In this capacity, she helps connect valuable programs and resources that benefit individuals and families throughout the community, helping to expand opportunities for support, empowerment, and growth.

Her combined experience in healthcare, administration, and community partnership development makes her a vital contributor to the vision and work of Be Exceptional Support Together. Teri’s passion for service and her commitment to strengthening communities continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those B.E.S.T. serves.

Toni Russell serves as a valued member of the Board of Directors for Be Exceptional Support Together (B.E.S.T.), where she contributes her passion, advocacy experience, and dedication to supporting individuals and families within the exceptional abilities community.

For more than 24 years, Toni has devoted herself to serving the exceptional community as a passionate advocate for individuals and families in need of resources and support. Her unwavering commitment to educating, empowering, and uplifting this community has made a lasting and meaningful impact on countless lives.

As an ordained minister and gospel educator, Toni brings a unique blend of spiritual insight, faith-based encouragement, and educational expertise to her work. Her ability to minister to both the practical and spiritual needs of families allows her to provide holistic support, guidance, and encouragement to those navigating complex life circumstances.

In addition to her advocacy and ministry roles, Toni also serves as an Insurance Review Specialist, where she uses her professional knowledge to assist families in navigating the often complex processes related to insurance coverage and healthcare support. Her expertise helps families better understand their options and secure the services they need.

Toni is also a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and holds several certifications that equip her to serve individuals with exceptional abilities with professionalism and care. Her certifications include CPR and AED, Core A/B Medication Administration, Health Care Support Professional (HCSP) training, and Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) certification. These qualifications further strengthen her ability to support individuals with compassion, safety awareness, and specialized care.

Toni’s advocacy journey began through her personal experience as a mother welcoming an exceptional child into her life, giving her firsthand understanding of the challenges, decisions, and emotional journeys many families face. Through that experience, she gained valuable insight, strength, and practical tools that now fuel her desire to help others.

Driven by compassion and purpose, Toni remains committed to ensuring that every member of the exceptional abilities community has access to the resources, knowledge, and support needed to thrive. Her voice, leadership, and lived experience make her an invaluable contributor to the mission of Be Exceptional Support Together (B.E.S.T.).