Don Knapp is the brother and guardian of Lori J. Knapp. He has worked in the human services field for 36 years as a social worker and administrator. Don purchased the business in 1979 from his parents, Don and Bette Knapp, the founders of Lori Knapp Inc. which was started to benefit their daughter, Lori, and other children with developmental disabilities. The goals of the Lori Knapp Companies are centered around supporting and enabling people to live in their own homes, in local communities that are close to their families.

Cheryl Mader is the Operations Manager of Lori Knapp Companies, overseeing all aspects of the company, especially risk management and contracts administration. She is a certified public accountant and a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Joining the organization in September of 2006, Cheryl brings to the company 30 years of work experience in accounting and management. Cheryl sees her role as managing all the LKI resources, human, physical and financial to bring about the best care possible.

Steve Mercaitis is the Development and Marketing Director of Lori Knapp Companies, currently working with counties in recruiting new consumers, and developing new programs. He joined Lori Knapp Companies in March of 1993 to help the company grow and meet the continuing community needs of people with disabilities and the elderly. He was key in developing the Fond du Lac, La Crosse, Richland Center, and Ashland Programs. His educational background is in business and broadcasting. Steve is the liaison with state and local organizations, and has been a leader in the Wisconsin Council on Long Term Care Reform, the Home Care Advisory Committee representing Personal Cares, Wisconsin Personal Services Association, the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association, and Arc-Wisconsin.

“Of the many positions I have had throughout my career, the opportunity to work with the Knapp organization and the people we serve is the most rewarding and satisfying. Everyday I can say that anyone associated with Lori Knapp Companies has made a positive difference in someone’s life.”

Kelly Gochenaur is the Program Director of Lori Knapp Companies, Inc. serving Ashland, Crawford, Fond du Lac, and LaCrosse. She is responsible for providing administrative support and oversight to help ensure overall quality and regulatory compliance. Kelly joined Lori Knapp Companies in 1993 and has previously held the positions of direct caregiver, day services coordinator, residential coordinator, community support worker, team leader, administrative assistant and program director. Populations served during her tenure with the Lori Knapp Companies include individuals of all ages who are challenged physically, mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and TBI. Kelly completed a Nursing Assistant Course, and received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and Human Services from Upper Iowa University. After receiving nursing assistant training in 1988, she worked at a local hospital for 2 years, and with additional training, became part of the obstetrics and emergency room team. She previously operated a certified day-care program for 4 years.

Jane Bushnell recently joined the Lori Knapp Companies as the Human Resources Director. She is responsible for directing HR issues, ensuring compliance, recruitment and retention, and the administration of company benefits, policies, and procedures. She brings with her 21+ years of personnel and management experience. Jane received her AS degree in Human Resources from Western Technical College. She has additional education and training in the areas of communication, leadership, and supervision. Jane has facilitated several community grant programs and has originated community events. She serves on the Board of Directors for the American Cancer Society in Crawford County and is the Vice President of Prairie du Chien's Futures Scholarship program.

Karen is the Administrative Manager for Lori Knapp Companies, working directly with the CEO and all directors. Karen has been with Lori Knapp Companies since 1995, and has previously held positions in the Accounting and Human Resources Departments. She continues to assist the Human Resource Director and also the Accounting team whenever needed. Currently, she is responsible for cash management for the Lori Knapp Companies and the accounting and human resource needs of the LKI-management company. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Upper Iowa University.

Todd Knapp is the IT Director for Lori Knapp Companies and is responsible for establishing directions and follow-through with computers & digital technologies for the company. He started with Lori Knapp Companies as a direct care worker in the late 1980’s, which motivated his quest for obtaining a degree in special education. He received his Associates degree from Western Technical College. Currently, Todd also participates in many company administrative tasks and enjoys the challenges of his job.

Lori Kaufman has recently joined Lori Knapp Companies as the Accounting Manager, where her responsibilities include financial statement preparation and analysis, supervision of all accounting functions, and developing ways to streamline processes. Lori’s previous experience includes 5 years as an accounting manager, 2 years as Accounting and Human Resource Manager, and 6 years as an accounting specialist. Lori earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Upper Iowa University with a major in Accounting and a minor in Financial Management.

Gerry Born provides consultation and training on disability, aging, and related human services and long-term care issues. Subject areas include service design and innovation, funding improvements, program evaluation, review and improvement, planning, board training, advocacy training, financial management and budgeting, and guardianship assistance and training. Temporary agency management is also included. Review of issues in litigation and expert witness services have been provided. From January 2003 to September 15, 2005, Gerry managed the Lori Knapp Richland, Inc. program that included in-home supports and residential programs. There has also been program reviews and written and verbal testimony concerning court related issues, formal program reviews of county and private agency programs, and temporary management of County Mental Health Centers. Currently Gerry works as the corporate manager for the LKRI program and is the interim CEO for North Central Health Care. Previously Gerry was the Executive Director of The Arc-Wisconsin Disability Association, Madison, WI, the Administrator of the state Division of Supportive Living, and held a variety of other positions in the Department of Health and Family Services including Director of the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities, Director of Southern Center, and has been a university instructor and an administrator of a private facility serving people with disabilities.

Peter B. Kelly, JD is pleased to serve as the General Counsel for Lori Knapp Companies. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from Marquette University Law School in May, 1984 and has spent the last 23 years in the private general practice of law. He still continues a private practice out of his own office near Monroe, Wisconsin. Mr. Kelly also holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Notre Dame as well as two additional Master's degrees in Resource Policy and Theology. Mr. Kelly will be awarded a third Master's degree in the spring of 2008 in Counseling Education as he pursues licensure as a Professional Counselor and as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Peter lives on his Green County farm with his wife of 19 years, Christine, and their five young children.

Pam Hamann serves as the HR Project Specialist. Her responsibilities include the leadership and direction of team employees, and all aspects of consumer, employee, and residential program management. Pam began her career with Lori Knapp Companies in 1994, and has served in many supervisory positions. Pam implemented the TEAM concept for the residential programs in 1997. Pam has over 18 years of supervisory experience with personal care workers and CNA’s, 4 years in Human Resources, and served as Programmer for Geriatrics and DD patients. Pam received her CNA, then went on to studies in Human Services at Upper Iowa University. Pam is a certified Fire Safety Trainer, and has additional education in labor law, and leadership/supervisory skills.

Ann Boland is a member of the accounting team for Lori Knapp Companies, serving as the payroll specialist. Her responsibilities include weekly payroll for Fond du Lac, LaCrosse and Richland Counties, accounts receivable, bank reconciliation, account reconciliation, and quarterly and annual payroll reports for Lori Knapp Companies. Ann joined the company in 2001, after 12 years of bookkeeping experience. Ann attended UW-Platteville Wisconsin, and then took several courses through Southwest Technical College.

Cassie Rickleff is a payroll specialist for the Lori Knapp Companies Accounting Team. Her responsibilities include payroll processing and account billings for Crawford and Ashland Counties, account reconciliation, quarterly and annual reports, and accounts payable for all Lori Knapp Companies. Cassie joined the Lori Knapp team in 2005, with 11 years of previous banking experience. Cassie received her Bachelors Degree in Business from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She is active in the community and is a member of the Jaycees.

Darci Knapp is the Program Resource Specialist for Lori Knapp Companies. Her responsibilities are providing resources to help promote quality and regulatory compliance. She coordinates company wide trainings, supports the Human Resources Department, serves as the MAPC coordinator, and is the company State Licensing Assistance & Licensing Resource. Darci joined the Lori Knapp Companies in 1993. Since then, she has served as a direct caregiver, recreation coordinator, day services coordinator, residential coordinator, team leader, accounting team, MAPC coordinator, human resources team, and training co-coordinator. She is the administrative assistant to WPSA (Wisconsin Personal Services Association) and the Agency Manager for the Crawford County Special Olympics.

In January 2007, Shawn joined Lori Knapp Companies Inc. as the IT Programmer & Developer. Shawn helps maintain the computer systems and streamline work processes. He served four years in the United States Marine Corps as a legal administrator and computer specialist. Shawn lived in Japan for eight years. After his military service, he earned his Bachelors Degree in computers and a certification in programming with the University of Maryland.

Nathan joined the Lori Knapp Companies Inc. in November of 2007 as the IT Systems Specialist. Nathan's primary responsibility is to maintain and develop server systems, networking, and computer system assets in addition to providing support and assistance to our users. He has a wide range of experience supporting computer system infrastructures since obtaining his Associates Degree in Microcomputer Specialist from Fox Valley Technical College in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in 1996. Nathan is a Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator and holds Comptia A+ and Network+ industry certifications.

Mary Kay Foley is currently the Director of Operations in Ashland County. Her responsibilities include the leadership and direction of team employees, and all aspects of consumer, employee, and non-residential program management. Mary began her career with Lori Knapp Companies in May of 2004 as the assistant liaison supervisor, moving up to the Director of Operations position shortly after. Mary has 8 years of previous office and business experience. She has a BS Degree in Elementary Education from Stevens Point WI, where she previously taught in the Stevens Point and Northwood (Minong) School districts. Since she and her family moved to Ashland in 1989, she has been involved in the Parks Board for the city of Ashland, RIF program in the Middle School and Chequamegon Theater (stage crew). She and her family enjoy the leisure and recreational opportunities in Ashland.

Jeanette Pope is the Office Support Manager Assistant for the Lori Knapp, Incorporated office in Ashland. Her job responsibilities include maintaining and updating employee records, coordinating trainings, and providing fill-in PC services. Jeanette has worked in the health care field for 15 years.

Traci Cloud is the Office Support Manager for the Lori Knapp, Incorporated office in Ashland, Wisconsin. Traci’s job duties include processing Employee timesheets, tracking consumer/employee mileage/hours, creating monthly reports, as well as other office related duties. Traci has a Micro-computer office assistant certificate from WITC-Ashland, an Associated of Arts Degree from Lake Superior College and is currently working towards her B.A.S in Psychology from UMD.

Jeanne Jordie serves as the Director of Operations for Crawford County. Her responsibilities include the leadership and direction of team employees, and all aspects of consumer, employee, and residential program management. She began her career with LKI in 2006 as Assistant Director of Operations. She comes to LKI with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Organizational Leadership as well as twenty years experience in the Pharmaceutical area of the health care business. This has enabled her to use her leadership strengths as she manages these residential programs. She is responsible for directing team employees, as well as management of all aspects of consumers and employee programs. Jeanne is also passionate about her support for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life and loves living in the Prairie du Chien area.

Beth Adrian Peters is a Residential Coordinator Specialist with the Lori Knapp Companies. She earned an Associates of Arts and Science degree from UW Center – Richland and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education from UW Madison. By the summer of 1994, she was ready to leave the chaos of the big city and come back home. Over the years, she has held many positions at the Lori Knapp Companies, allowing her to enhance the lives of many people with different abilities.

Connie Schissel is the Office Support Manager for the Lori Knapp Crawford team. She has an Account Clerk degree from Southwest Technical College in Fennimore, WI. Working as the head Customer Service Manager at Wal-mart for 10 years helped her to realize that being involved with people with disabilities was an important role in her life. Currently her ongoing duties center on organization, being able to multi-task, and handle complex situations. Connie has been at Lori Knapp Companies since 1996 and continues to enjoy her work.

Joan Gochenaur is a Residential Coordinator Specialist for Lori Knapp Crawford. In addition to supervising three group homes, Joan manages the checkbooks and bills for homes and consumers. She has worked for the Lori Knapp Companies for over 30 years; the majority of her time is spent providing direct care.

“I still keep in touch by doing a lot of appointments and visiting in the homes.”

Sandy Farnsworth started with the Lori Knapp Companies in January, 1995 as a Certified Nursing Assistant in many different positions. Currently she is a Residential Coordinator Specialist for five Crawford residences. Sandy is also involved with scheduling tasks, as a member of the Fill-In team, on the Food Program team, the Recreation team, as a member of the Community Support Program and helps out with the emergency cellular phone.

Mary Maine serves as the Director of Operations for Fond du Lac County. Her responsibilities include the leadership and direction of team employees, and all aspects of consumer, employee, and residential program management. Mary joined Lori Knapp Companies in 2001, coordinating the opening of eight, 4-bed Adult Family Homes in the Fond du Lac area. Mary has over 16 years of experience in the health care and human services field, including C.N.A duties in a skilled nursing facility, along with the management of a 20 bed CBRF. She is actively involved with quality assurance activities corporate wide. Her formal education includes Nursing Assistant training, Comprehensive Approaches to Challenging behaviors, Affirmative Action Training, Human Resources, Life Enrichment Programming, Sales and Marketing, Healthcare planning, medication management, and Financial Management for Community Based Residential Care Facilities.

Deb Steinmetz is the Residential Coordinator Specialist for Lori Knapp Companies in Fond du Lac. She started out as a Residential Coordinator in the Whippoorwill Adult Family Home. She is support for staff and consumers, does monthly quality assurance, supply program, attends staffings, assists in the houses, oversees the schedules and many other jobs. She has been doing Health Care since 1968. She enjoys and is proud of her accomplishments and continues to accept any challenge she may come up against.

Joanne McDermott is an Office Support Manager at the Fond du Lac Office. Joanne has a background including factory, truck driver, fork lift operator, grocery store checker and head checker. She has a degree as an Accounting Assistant from Moraine Park Technical College. She loves her job. She enjoys interaction with various groups of people and duties that are never the same every day.

Mary Jo Abler is an Office Support Manager at the Fond du Lac Office. I have had many work experiences throughout my years to included office support, customer service, Medical Transport work, factory and sales positions, and working as a CNA in a nursing home. I received an Associate Degree in Supervisory Management from Moraine Park Technical College in Fond du Lac. I have a daughter, son-in-law, and grand daughter. I also have a son and future daughter-in-law. We spend our summers at our cottage in north east Fond du Lac County. I have been a Lion for 15 years, currently with the New Holstein Lions Club, serving as a Director and Public Relations Chairperson. I also serve as the District Public Relations Chairperson and District Contributing News Editor for District 27-B1 for our State newspaper. I enjoy working for Lori Knapp, Inc. The work is interesting, the Consumers are great to work with, and the co-workers are a great group of caring people!

Linda Seidel serves as the Director of Operations for La Crosse County. Her responsibilities include the leadership and direction of team employees, and all aspects of consumer, employee and property management. Linda joined the team in May of 2008, after 25 years of working within the “non-profit” sector; responding to the social and economic needs of women, children, youth and families living within the Greater La Crosse community. Linda Seidel has expertise in program planning and development, fund development, grant writing and leadership training. Linda graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor’s degree in Education/Recreation, June 1982.

Danyelle Knudson is the Residential Coordinator for the 5th Avenue Children’s Home in La Crosse. Danyelle started as a Direct Care worker for Lori Knapp Inc. in 1999 in Richland Center, WI. In 2000 Danyelle began working in the La Crosse programs and when our first Children’s Home opened in 2004, Danyelle was onboard working for our mission. Danyelle is a Certified Nursing Assistant and uses her vast experiences to help train staff as well as Residential Coordinators and assisting in the programs wherever her knowledge can be utilized. Danyelle’s resounding dedication to the programs and consumers is an asset to all who work with her.

Darcie Bradley serves as the Director of Operations for Richland County. Her responsibilities include the leadership and direction of team employees, and all aspects of consumer, employee, and property management. She has worked for Lori Knapp Richland since August of 1998, with responsibilities as Employment Service Representative, Community Living Assistant, Team Leader, and Operations Manager. Her previous management experiences include owning and operating a day care, and managing a small convenience store. She attended the University of Wisconsin Richland, and focused her studies on management and business related classes.

Jane Jelinek recently joined Lori Knapp Companies as the Office Support Manager/Fiscal Agent Coordinator for Richland County. She processes all new hire and ongoing paperwork for the Richland office, as well as the paperwork and payroll processes for the Fiscal Agent program. Jane has 25 years of experience in the clerical, financial, and administrative fields, and an extensive background in the human services area.

Chasity Walsh is the Team Leader for the Lori Knapp Richland office. She supervises the Supportive Home, and Residential Programs and co- supervises the Community Living Assistant Program. She is responsible for staff schedules, the Day Service program and coordinating the on call schedule. She started as a Team Leader Assistant in 2004 and became a Team Leader in September of 2005. She has been a direct care worker for the past 11 years and comes with great knowledge and experience.