Belinda Martinez is a dedicated community leader and passionate advocate for exceptional families. As the proud mother of a son with autism, her work is deeply personal and rooted in lived experience, empathy, and purpose.

With over 17 years of volunteer service, Belinda has committed her life to uplifting families, strengthening communities, and ensuring that individuals with special needs are seen, supported, and empowered. Her journey as a local business owner reflects her belief in service-driven leadership and sustainable community growth.

Belinda is known for her servant’s heart, tireless advocacy, and ability to bring people together to create meaningful change. Whether through outreach, education, or hands-on support, she leads with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to leaving no family behind.

Margarita Gonzalez is the President of Forward and a dedicated advocate for the special needs community, bringing over 15 years of experience in service and leadership. Her passion is deeply personal, inspired by her aunt, Evangelina Vega, whose life and journey shaped Margarita’s commitment to advocacy and inclusion.

Originally from California and proudly Latina, Margarita now serves families in Clarksville, Tennessee, where she works tirelessly to empower parents, caregivers, and individuals with special needs through education, resources, and community support. She combines professional expertise with a genuine heart for service, leading with compassion, integrity, and purpose.

As President of Forward, Margarita is driven by a simple but powerful mission: to ensure that no one in the special needs community is left behind.

Sheela Clark serves as the Secretary of Forward Clarksville, leading with the belief that love is the ultimate meaning of life and the foundation of meaningful service. She is honored to turn that philosophy into action by supporting and advocating for the special population community with compassion and purpose.

Sheela brings a powerful blend of heart and strategy to her role. She spent seven years as a Special Education teacher, gaining firsthand insight into the strengths, challenges, and triumphs of individuals with special needs. She complements this experience with over 20 years in Business Management and holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA), allowing her to support the organization’s mission with thoughtful, professional leadership.

Sheela’s genuine love for people is evident in all that she does, and she is deeply committed to ensuring that Forward Clarksville remains a place where every individual is seen, supported, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

Nancy Selesele serves as the Treasurer of Forward, bringing both dedication and lived experience to the organization’s mission. Her commitment to advocacy is deeply personal—she is the proud mother of her son, Brycen, who is on the autism spectrum.

Motherhood opened Nancy’s eyes to the realities many families face every day: navigating complex systems, advocating for essential services, and carrying the emotional weight that often comes with raising a child with special needs. Through her journey, she has witnessed firsthand how overwhelming it can be for caregivers who are searching for support, understanding, and a sense of community.

Nancy was drawn to Forward because it offers more than assistance—it offers hope. Forward meets families where they are, without judgment, and provides compassionate, intentional support during even the most challenging moments.