About Us

Brad Davis serves as the Board’s President and has been an active member of CIAA since 2018.  While he enjoys serving individuals and families affected by autism at the Board level, he most enjoys getting out into the community, meeting people, and hearing their autism story.  Professionally, Brad has worked within the financial services industry since 2008 and has been in his current position as a financial advisor since 2013.  He lives in Germantown Hills with his wife and son, and in his spare time enjoys exercising, reading, cooking, and lamenting the most recent loss of his favorite sports teams with his friends over a craft beer (or two).

Sarah is dedicated to the autism community with a heart for service. Sarah has been a nurse with OSF for 14 years. Her passion for Central Illinois Autism Association stems from her own experiences with her oldest son, Ronon, being diagnosed with autism around the age of 4. When she’s not advocating for her son and other autistic individuals, you can find Sarah with her family. She has two beautiful boys, Ronon and Royce. She has been married for 6 years to her husband, Spencer. Sarah enjoys working out and curling up with a good book! I look forward to continuing to serve the community throughout the coming years.

Matt serves as a voting board member and has been active with CIAA since April 2024.  He is enthusiastic about contributing to Peoria area initiatives that will improve our communities and is thankful for the opportunity to help CIAA.

Matt is a graduate of Bradley University earning a Bachelor and Master of Science in Accounting.  He has also achieved designations as a Certified Public Account, Chartered Financial Consultant, and Certified Student Loan Professional.  After serving ten years in the tax department for a Fortune 500 company, Matt shifted into a career in financial service and has been a financial advisor since 2019.  He resides in Peoria with his wife and two children.

Michelle Brecklin serves as the Community Outreach Coordinator for the Central Illinois Autism Association (CIAA), where she combines her passion for advocacy with her deep roots in Central Illinois to support autism families and promote community awareness.

A middle school paraprofessional and group fitness instructor, Michelle brings energy, compassion, and dedication to everything she does. Her journey into autism advocacy began in November 2017, when her eldest son was diagnosed with autism. Since then, she has been committed to raising awareness, supporting other families navigating similar paths, and fostering a culture of kindness and inclusion throughout Central Illinois.

Michelle’s strong community connections and heartfelt passion make her a valuable resource to CIAA and the families it serves. She believes in empowering parents, celebrating neurodiversity, and building a supportive network where every child and family feels seen and valued.

Michelle lives in Washington, Illinois, with her husband, Dave, their two boys, and their two dogs. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the great outdoors (camping, fishing, hiking, and boating), a sucker for a beautiful sunrise/sunset, cooking/baking, getting crafty, working out, traveling, and savoring a good cup of coffee.

Jonathan Gauerke serves as the Board’s Grant Coordinator and has been an active member of CIAA since March 2024. Jonathan has been a lifelong advocate for individuals with varying types of disabilities and for those who need access to services.

Jonathan’s passion for individuals with Autism and disabilities stemmed from growing up with family members who lived through times where there was a lack of appropriate services and support for them. Jonathan has a Masters in Social Work from Illinois State University and is currently a Licensed Social Worker. Professionally, he has 26 years of experience in social services in Central Illinois. Currently, Jonathan is a Program Director with Gateway Foundation for outpatient substance use and mental health services for locations in Peoria and Bloomington. In his free time, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family, watching and coaching sports, grilling, and is a lover of coffee. He lives in the Peoria area with his wife and three children.

Dave Brecklin is a voting member of the Central Illinois Autism Association (CIAA), where he proudly supports the organization’s mission to raise autism awareness and strengthen support for families throughout Central Illinois.

Professionally, Dave works as a Crew Leader, Gas Troubleman, and Welder. He brings strong leadership skills, dedication, and a hardworking spirit to both his career and his advocacy work.

Dave’s passion for autism awareness began in November 2017, when his eldest son was diagnosed with autism. Since then, he has been committed to supporting other families navigating similar journeys, promoting understanding, and encouraging kindness and inclusion within the community. Alongside his family, he is dedicated to building a stronger, more supportive network for individuals with autism and their loved ones.

Dave lives in Washington, Illinois, with his wife, Michelle, their two boys, and their two dogs. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, boating, camping, grilling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Lynda Sharp-Lower is a graduate of Illinois State University earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Sociology in 1991 and her Master’s Degree in Human Services Counseling in 1997. She is also a 2007 graduate of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership School. She has been in the social service field for 25 years and has been employed by Easter Seals Central Illinois since 2012. Currently, Lynda is an Autism Services Specialist and coordinates the Easter Seals Autism Diagnostic Clinic. Lynda lives in Pekin with her spouse and has 3 children; 2 of which live at home.