Hi! I’m Melissa Joiner, a passionate advocate for young children and families, currently serving as Community Liaison at AIMHiTN. As a proud native of Memphis, Tennessee, I’ve spent over 15 years dedicated to early childhood education, early intervention, and family support services across our state.

I hold a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree in Child Development and Family Studies from the University of Memphis, and I am also a Certified Birth Doula and Breastfeeding Counselor. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in a variety of roles—as an educator, instructor, early interventionist, and advisor—each one deepening my commitment to equitable, compassionate care for children and the adults who support them.

In addition to my work in early childhood development, I am a proud advocate for Alzheimer’s research and awareness. Inspired by my personal connection to the disease, I’ve dedicated time to educating communities, supporting families impacted by Alzheimer’s, and raising awareness through my self-published children’s book Danny the Nanny Cares for Granny, which introduces young readers to the realities of memory loss in a gentle, age-appropriate way.

My work is driven by a heart for advocacy and a desire to help families navigate challenges with dignity and strength. I’m especially passionate about supporting children with diverse developmental needs and empowering parents with tools and resources that foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and lifelong learning.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy writing and creating resources that uplift and inform. It’s an honor to walk alongside families and providers as we build healthier, more connected communities—one child at a time.