As Humanim enters a new chapter by becoming an affiliate of the Melwood Family of Companies, we are proud to introduce Larysa Kautz, President and CEO of Melwood. Larysa brings over 25 years of experience in law, nonprofit management, advocacy, and disability rights, grounded in a lifelong commitment to expanding inclusion and opportunity.
Her leadership is deeply shaped by personal experience—she is a first-generation American with disabilities, the daughter of parents with disabilities, and the mother of a child with disabilities. This lived connection informs her belief that communities are strongest when everyone has meaningful access to participation, contribution, and choice.
Under Larysa’s guidance, Melwood has evolved into a family of companies designed to meet people’s needs across their lifespan, from youth programming and community-based supports to inclusive employment and workforce development. By continuing to push boundaries and break barriers, Melwood serves more individuals in unique and innovative ways and strengthens its impact across the region.
For Humanim, Larysa’s vision aligns naturally with our own: creating pathways to independence, honoring dignity, ensuring participants remain at the center of everything we do, and fostering a workplace culture where employees feel valued, supported, and heard. Her leadership reinforces our shared commitment to stability, respect, and high-quality services for the people and families who rely on us.
As Larysa puts it, “Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive—and we are strongest when we build that future together.”
With this shared purpose guiding us, we look forward to what we will achieve side by side.