Welcome to 
National  Disabilities Association

Support from Those Who Truly Understand for Those Who Truly Understand

About Us
We are a team of disabled professionals with over a decade of experience supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. For the past five years, our Leadership Team has collaborated on a variety of impactful projects and programs.Through the National Disability Association, we offer guidance and support to help navigate the everyday challenges of living with a disability. Our group meets weekly to engage in meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics—both disability-related and everyday life experiences.In addition, our Leadership Team facilitates a Peer Mentoring Program that fosters social connection, encourages personal growth, and promotes lasting friendships among members.

The National Disabilities Association, as an organization, does not promote or take any stance on religious or political beliefs. We respect that each individual may hold personal views on these topics, but we ask that such discussions be kept outside the group setting, as they can lead to unnecessary tension or conflict. Our focus is to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive space centered on disability-related matters.

Additionally, two out of the three of us who help lead this group are mandated reporters. This means that if we become aware of anything that feels unsafe—whether it involves harm, threats, or any situation that raises concern—we are legally and ethically required to take appropriate steps to report it.

Join Our Inclusive Community
Feel Understood, Supported, and Empowered
This group is designed for individuals in the ADA community who are seeking greater inclusion, connection, and independence. We invite you to contact us for an introductory interview, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet our team and learn more before joining the group.
  • Queens, NY, USA

Please feel free to contact us for any purpose involving this group or disability related and one of the team members will get back to you as soon as possible

Caleb Wells Director of Operations: LPC, BCBA, MALAS

Caleb W. Wells, LPC, BCBA, MALAS, is a 28-year-old Licensed Practical Counselor and professor who lives in Flushing, New York. Born with cerebral palsy, Caleb was raised in the small village of Sappington, Missouri, with his three brothers. His passion for education started early—he loved school and always wanted to be a teacher. Caleb has eight years of experience as a secondary education special education teacher and basketball coach. In 2018, he earned an undergraduate degree in Secondary Social Science and Special Education from Wichita State University. In 2021, he earned a Master of Liberal Arts and Sciences in Social Sciences with an emphasis in Sociology and Behavior and Communication Disorders from Saint Louis University. For the past six months, Caleb has been working as a pediatric behavioral interventionist in a clinical setting. The National Disabilities Association is important to me because it has allowed me to work with my best friends and contribute to the lives of adults living with disabilities. Disabilities do not disappear when individuals age out of pediatric and adolescent programming, and it is imperative for people to understand that kids with disabilities grow up and become adults in this world. The role of the National Disabilities Association is to help ease the transition into adulthood.

Director of Communications: Melissa Bishop, M.S.

Melissa is an experienced Behavior Specialist with over ten years of dedicated work in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. She holds a Master’s Degree from the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester, where she focused her studies on behavioral interventions and support strategies. Throughout her career, Melissa has worked with both children and adults, specializing in supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each person she serves. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Melissa brings a valuable personal perspective to her professional work. Her lived experience enhances her ability to connect with clients and families, fostering empathy, understanding, and a strong sense of advocacy. Residing in Queens, New York, Melissa is deeply committed to promoting inclusion, independence, and quality of life for people with disabilities. She continues to be a strong voice in the community, striving to create meaningful change through her work and leadership.

Moshe Bergmann, Director of Internal Affairs and Technology:

Moshe Bergmann is a certified life coach with over 20 years of experience specializing in supporting individuals with disabilities. Born with spina bifida, Moshe has been deeply connected to the disabled community throughout his life. His personal journey has given him a profound understanding of the challenges and strengths that come with living with a disability. Known for his outgoing nature and compassionate approach, Moshe has become a trusted mentor and advocate for many. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Newark University, where he graduated with an Academic Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding performance. Through his work, Moshe empowers clients to overcome obstacles, build confidence, and achieve meaningful personal growth. His unique combination of lived experience and professional expertise continues to make a positive impact in the lives of those he serves.

Zoe Maye Van Smoot- Director of Health Support and Security

Zoe is a seven-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd and Golden Retriever crossbreed, professionally trained and certified in seizure and neurological alert work. For the past seven years, she has been an invaluable partner to our Director of Operations, providing critical support and companionship. Throughout her career, Zoe has lived and worked in four different states, adapting seamlessly to new environments and continuing her service with dedication and loyalty. Born and raised in the heart of the Great Plains in south-central Kansas, Zoe began her training at an early age and quickly demonstrated exceptional aptitude for medical alert work. Her calm demeanor, sharp instincts, and deep bond with her handler make her a truly remarkable service animal. Outside of her working role, Zoe enjoys a well-balanced life full of simple pleasures. She loves going on long walks, riding trains, indulging in the occasional Dorito, and taking well-earned naps. With a heart of gold and a famously fluffy tail, Zoe is not only a highly skilled service dog but also a beloved member of our team, bringing joy and comfort wherever she goes.