Our Team
Executive Director
Stephen Savarimuthu
Program Specialist
Raised in Morganton, North Carolina, Stephen Savarimuthu moved to Lake Wales, Florida to attend college at Warner University, where he majored in Church Ministry with a minor in Cross-Cultural Communications and Community Development. From there, Stephen continued his academic career at Anderson University Theological Seminary in Anderson, Indiana, earning a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry and Education. While obtaining his degrees, Stephen was afforded numerous opportunities that cultivated a passion for working with marginalized and underserved populations within communities. Since completing his graduate program, he has targeted his efforts to serve in various roles in the non-profit realm, providing intuitive case management practices, comprehensive program development, and supervisory assistance to others wishing to serve in their communities.
Stephen is now excited to be returning to his hometown of Morganton with his wife, Kelsea, daughter, Livsey, and son Avett. With him, Stephen brings an ardent desire to reconcile those who have been displaced and isolated due to serious mental illness by fostering authentic connections with their peers and community, and by increasing their access to much-needed resources.
Raised in Asheville, North Carolina, Iris Knox began her academic journey at Warren Wilson College before transferring to Montreat College, where she completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology & Human Services. During her time at Montreat, she completed an internship at Thrive Clubhouse in Hendersonville, NC, gaining firsthand experience in the clubhouse model. Through daily collaboration with members and staff, she strengthened her communication skills, built professional relationships, and learned the value of a work-focused community.
After graduating, Iris entered the human services field as a Registered Behavioral Technician for Delta Behavioral Group. There, Iris had the privilege of working with children on the Autism Spectrum, helping her clients and families set meaningful goals. To best support her clients, she worked in the schools and homes of those she served. Her work focused on individualized care, understanding, and guidance.
Inspired by a commitment to serve marginalized populations, Iris relocated to Hickory, NC, continuing to advocate for others facing social stigma. She maintains strong relationships with her mentors and colleagues from both Thrive and Delta, reflecting a work rooted in passion and change for the mental health field.
Now based in Morganton, Iris remains committed to supporting individuals with navigating relationships and a work-centered community. Her personal journey, along with experiences she shared with close friends, grounds her work in empathy and a genuine desire to uplift those around her.
Clubhouse Generalist
Lawrence Pearson
Dynamic professional with over 3 years of healthcare and customer service experience, adept at supporting vulnerable
populations and maintaining high facility standards. Experienced in direct care, emergency response, and collaborative service delivery, with a proven ability to work under pressure. Holds CPR certification and a valid driver's license, ready to contribute to a meaningful recovery model.
Business Administration (Bachelor of Science)
Appalachian State University | Boone, NC
Iris Knox
Our Founders
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Sherri McGimsey
Past President /Founder
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Eddie McGimsey
Treasurer/Founder
Board Members
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Melaina Rhoney
President
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Nancy Phifer
Vice President
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Katie Varnadoe
Secretary
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Barbara Myers
Director
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Carol Ervin
Director
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Dolores Huffman
Director
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Katharine Wright
Director
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Katie Olsen
Director
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Kale Wright
Director
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Vacant
Director
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Vacant
Director
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Vacant
Director
Interested in joining our team? We can always use the help!
Brighter House Clubhouse, one of the newest non-profits in Morganton, is looking for volunteers and board members. Following the Clubhouse International model, we are a supportive, recovery-based community for people living with mental illness that offers opportunities for friendship, employment, education, community , and access to other important resources in a single caring and safe environment. Are you ready to give back to your community? Do you want to be part of an international model that empowers adults living with a mental health illness and supports workforce development in Burke County? We’re welcoming leaders with expertise in the following areas:
community connections
financial/budgeting
fundraising
public relations
Please send us an email to find out more. We’d love to hear from you! admin@brighterhouse.org
Please contact us through the contact page.