Marguerite Rupnow has been in the human services field and with Oconomowoc Residential Programs since 1987. She was involved in children’s programming for 8 years and over 7 years working with adults who were dually diagnosed. Marguerite assumed the position as Director of Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in 2002.

Marguerite has over 18 years of management experience and has been involved in program, group home, and staff training and development. She is currently certified by the State of Wisconsin to teach the HFS 83 modules.

“After so many years in the field I am always amazed at the capacity of our people to overcome obstacles and demonstrate to me how insignificant my current challenges or obstacles are in comparison.”

Marguerite holds a Bachelor's Degree from Concordia University of Wisconsin. She lives in the area with her husband and 2 sons. She enjoys reading, gardening, camping, and playing with her kids.

Jackie Mallow has worked in a residential setting since 1985. She has worked directly with children and adults who have been dually diagnosed. She has extensive training, experience, and education in the areas of behavior/crisis management, and program/staff development. She has worked exclusively with individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome since 1996, providing educational training, support, guidance and consultation nationwide. Jackie is the Admissions/Consultative Services Director for Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc, and has been on the Board of Directors for PWSA-Wisconsin since 1997, and was newly elected in 2006 to the Board of Directors for PWSA-USA. Since 1997, she has enjoyed sharing her knowledge as a presenter at the National and International level for PWSA (USA)/IPSO, as well as her ability to grow through the experience and knowledge of others she has met over the years.

“I have worked with many children, adults, families, providers, and professionals who have had to meet numerous challenges. None of these compare to the struggles an individual with PWS and those who care for them must face. It may also be said, that I have never seen a group of families, providers, and professionals be more supportive, dedicated and tireless in their efforts to make a difference in the lives of those touched by Prader-Willi Syndrome."

Born and raised in the Oconomowoc area, Jackie enjoys the outdoors, a good book, and her family and friends. Her husband Bruce, children Nick and Samantha are the loves of her life, and her profession is her passion.

Lizabeth Moser~Sadzewicz MSW, APSW, has been with Oconomowoc Residential Programs (ODTC and PWHO) since 1989. She has had the privilege of providing support services to individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome and their families in the positions of Residential Counselor, Senior Counselor, Group Home Manager, and Case Manager/Social Worker. She is currently the Director of Clinical Services at PWHO.

Liz received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1994 She earned her M.S.W. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2002.

In 1996, Lizabeth became certified by the State of Wisconsin to train the HFS 83 modules, which include Needs Assessment & Individual Service Plans; Resident Rights; and Client Group Specific curricula. She has attended and presented at the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA) conferences since 1997. She is a member of both PWSA (WI) and PWSA (USA).

Liz enjoys spending time with her friends and family: daughter, Kara; stepson, Christopher; and husband, Steven.
She looks forward to further exploring writing, photography and drawing/painting.

“My heart was touched 17 years ago, and it has been held captive ever since.”

Susan Morris holds a Bachelor's Degree from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a major in Social Work and a minor in Sociology.  Her internship was three-fold and included: working with the Women’s Center in Waukesha WI at their shelter for battered women, working with the Legal Advocacy Program, and the “Nurture Program” for children birth-to-three. Susan continues to serve at UW-Whitewater as an Advisory Board Member to the Social Work Department. 

Susan has been with ORP since May of 1993, and she began her ORP career at ODTC.  Her first two years at ODTC were spent as a Senior Youth Counselor.  In 1995, she joined the Social Services Department, where she remained until her transfer to PWHO in July of 2006. 

Susan has developed knowledge and specific expertise in the areas of gang issues, Conduct Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, Schizophrenia, Tourette Syndrome, and Oppositional Defiant Disorders.  She has worked with children on many ODTC units and in both the children and adult group home programs.  She helped create a Play Therapy Room, facilitated an ODTC Family Day, and co-facilitated Parent Mornings and an After-School Group/Club.  Susan has run a variety of groups including Peer Mediation, Young Adult Planning, AODA issue groups, Anger Management, and a Multi-cultural Group for Teens in their “Thundering Years”.  She has conducted trainings in Prevention of Abuse and Neglect, Stress Management, Milieu Treatment and the Life Space Interview, Professional Documentation, as well as providing training in behavioral approaches and diagnoses to treatment teams. 

Aspects of the job that are the most rewarding for her include helping the resident to tell their story and build off their strengths and natural resiliency, and helping them “bloom where they are planted.” 

Keeping her busy outside of work is her husband of 12 years and her 10 year old daughter.  When she’s not being a family taxi to tae kwon do training, sports practices, volunteering with the PTO, or landscaping, she will often spend spare time reading or playing her handheld Boggle game.  Favorite books this year:  “Raising Your Spirited Child” and “The Oppositional Defiant Disorder Book”. 

Melanie Ignatowski
Admissions Coordinator

Melanie Ignatowski came to Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in 2002 as a Residential Counselor at Gatehouse.  In 2004, she accepted the position of Assistant Manager for Andrew Home and in 2005 she was promoted to Group Home Manager of Lang Home.  In late 2006, Melanie became the Admissions Coordinator for PWHO.  During her tenure with PWHO, Melanie has taken on many projects above and beyond her job description, including planning company gatherings, coordinating and implementing new motivation programs, and being a Trainer for Oconomowoc Residential Programs.
           
“From day one, I knew that Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc was where I wanted to be.  It is a job that I love and look forward to coming to every day.  Every day is different and exciting.  Helping others has always given me a great sense of fulfillment.  Through the eyes of the residents I have learned a great deal about myself and the simple joys of life.  The residents and staff at PWHO are like a family to me and I am honored to be part of it.”

Melanie attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a focus on Exceptional Education. She loves children and in her spare time enjoys watching movies, taking long drives in the country, traveling, and scrap booking.

“I very much enjoy my daily interactions with my clients as well as their families”.

Mark lives in the area with his wife and daughter. He enjoys riding his mountain bike and watching the St. Louis Rams.

Rose first became aware of Prader-Willi Syndrome while working as a Child Care Technician at ODTC. She was then appointed Program Supervisor, with duties like staff training, activity planning and coordination, and coaching Special Olympics. Her position changed to Social Worker/Group Home Manager for an adult group home for individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome, eventually being named Group Homes Director. In 1992 Rose assumed the duties of Social Worker for the Children's Residential Program, and in 1993 became a Certified Social Worker. In March, 2003, Rose became the Case Manager for three Prader-Willi group homes.

Rose is an accomplished and dedicated professional, but her greatest satisfaction and joy comes from her relationships with the individuals and families she works with.

“One of my greatest passions is in facilitating a positive sense of self in those individuals that I serve”.

Rose makes her home in the Oconomowoc area with her husband and daughter. She values life long learning and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in counseling through the University of Wisconsin.

Kim Tula B.S., has worked in a residential setting since 1990. She initially joined the ODTC team, and worked with adults and children that have been dually diagnosed. Over the years, she has held many positions, including Youth Counselor, Assistant Unit Supervisor, Behavior Specialist, and Clinical Specialist. Over thee past 10 years she has worked with wide variety of client populations and with children with intensive treatment need in a residential setting.
Kim has extensive experience and training in Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders.

She became a member of the PWHO team and is currently the Clinical Coordinator for Gatehouse and Lang Home.

“I love coming to work every day to help improve the lives of each resident, and to watch each one of them grow.”

In her free time, Kim enjoys spending time with husband and daughter, horseback riding, and, gardening.

Douglas Schefft, M.S., L.P.C.
Clinical Coordinator for Margaret Ruth Home

Douglas Schefft, M.S., LP.C., has provided positive behavioral supports to dually diagnosed adults and children since 1989, supporting them to interact more effectively in their environments.  Through focusing on increasing skill development, gearing strategies to increase meaning to their day and assisting them to make safe self-selected choices, he helps empower others to achieve greater control over their lives. 

“I have learned a lot about myself both as a man and a professional by watching those whom I have supported, face head-on their personal challenges.  They are truly people who inspire, living testimonials to the indomitable human spirit.”

Doug achieved the Degree of Master of Science in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1986, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Wisconsin.  Doug proudly joined the PWHO team in December of 2006.  He is an Associate Member of the American Psychological Association and a Full Member of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.  In his free time, Doug enjoys spending time with his wife and three step-children. 

Judy Wolter began working with individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome in 1999. She has extensive experience in both counseling and training. Judy was an AODA counselor for 7 ½ years before coming to PWHO. Judy began her journey with PWHO as an Assistant Group Home Manager at Hanson House. Her advanced skills and abilities led her to the Manager position at Stepping Stone. Judy then became the Coordinator of services at Gatehouse, Stepping Stone and Margaret Ruth. She is now the Coordinator for Andrew Home, Lang Home and Anthony Home.

Judy has been an active facilitator of Special Olympics as well as planning special events for the residents. Judy’s outgoing, caring personality gives support to staff and the individual residents at PWHO.

Judy is originally from the Watertown Wisconsin area. She had the opportunity to achieve her AODA certification in Houston Texas. Judy worked as an AODA counselor and continued her studies for approximately 7 ½ years prior to moving back to the Oconomowoc area. When not at work Judy spends her time enjoying the outdoors, particularly walking, hiking, skiing and bicycle riding.

Judy finds her work with PWHO very rewarding “The interaction I enjoy with our residents is priceless. I have a new understanding and appreciation for the words courage, respect and dignity, just because of our residents.”

Hollie Ballard began her ORP career at Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center (ODTC) in October of 2001 as a Residential Counselor.  She was quickly able to put her past management experiences to work when she became a Group Home Manager of one of the ODTC Adult Group Homes.  Hollie joined the PWHO team in August of 2003 as the Group Home Manager of Margaret Ruth. Recently, she was promoted to a position as a Group Homes Coordinator with PWHO, and she continues her management responsibilities at Margaret Ruth.

Hollie’s entire career has centered on working with children and young adults with developmental disabilities, and children and young adults who are disadvantaged.  Hollie brings a passion to her job and truly believes “we do make a difference.”   Her passion comes primarily from her experiences growing up with a younger brother who is physically and developmentally disabled. 

Hollie was born and raised in Michigan with one sister and two brothers.  Hollie was recently married and enjoys spending time with her husband and her two beautiful nieces.  She also enjoys reading, watching movies, and is a big fan of college basketball.

Marta Muller, M.D. initially worked as a consulting treating psychiatrist with the dually diagnosed population of children at ODTC. That was almost 30 years ago. She provided psychiatric assessment and psychotropic medication treatment along with other supportive activities associated with training and overall supervision of psychological and psychiatric services.  Later, as Director of Social Systems, she became more involved with the functions of all Divisions within the Oconomowoc Residential Programs' family of Companies. As a result, she came to know more intimately the team that has guided the development of PWHO to its present quality status of competence. She is now a full time member of that team.

Dr. Muller has worked with children with PWS throughout her career with ODTC, and continued to work with these individuals as PWHO evolved and grew to become its own independent Division.

Over time, Dr. Muller became increasingly more interested in searching the “person behind the mask,” first among the cognitively challenged children of ODTC, and especially among children and adults with Tourette Syndrome, which is a specialty of hers. More recently, this interest has included the people living at PWHO.  Her other passion has been to attempt to assist their families with the traumatizing, "choking chains" of these chronic disorders.

Dr. Muller’s education started with learning how to survive during her family’s flight to freedom from war in Poland.  Such involuntary travels took a detour of 6 years of primary schooling in Brazil, and finally brought her to the U.S., where eventually she received a B.A. degree in Zoology at Barnard College of Columbia University. Dr. Muller received her medical education at Marquette University School of Medicine.  Her residency in Child and Adult Psychiatry was complemented with extensive training in Neuro-linguistic-programming (NLP), Ericksonian hypnosis, and Metaphor Therapy, which she offers for professional sports and arts performance enhancement in her private practice.  She applies this to her hobby of mime, and will jump at any invitation to perform at a party or gathering!  However, most of all, she wishes “to express her joy, and enthusiasm, and a sense of honor and privilege” to now be a full time member of an incredibly enlightened and visionary team that wants to lighten the burden of the courageous people with Prader-Willi Syndrome and their devoted families.  

Rena Mills, R.N.,B.C. has been working for Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center (ODTC) – sister company to PWHO - since February of 1989, and has been an R.N. since 1983. Since 1991, Rena has also held an A.N.C.C. Psychiatric/Mental Health Certification. She became a full time member of the PWHO team, and brought her considerable skills to that team, in March of 2006.

Rena has worked as an RN on a Neuro-Rehab unit, as a Charge Nurse working with people with eating disorders, and as the Nurse Manager of a women’s chemical dependency treatment facility. Since coming to ODTC, Rena has worked with developmentally disabled and emotionally disturbed children, as well as providing medical on-call services for PWHO. Rena has found her greatest professional satisfaction working with ODTC and PWHO residents.

“Getting to know the residents, seeing their progress, caring for their medical needs, and working with their families, has been very rewarding to me personally”.

Rena is married, with two grown children.

Nancy was born and raised in southern Indiana and moved to Wisconsin in 1998 with her husband and children.

Nancy has a special needs adult child, so she has 20 years experience caring for individuals with disabilities.  Nancy brings a nurturing passion to her job and feels she understands the parents and the residents, because of her personal journey with her child.

“I see the residents at Anthony Home as a big part of my life.  It is such a joy to see them develop new skills and achieve their goals.”

Nancy began working with PWHO in May 2004 as a residential counselor.  She was promoted to management in 2006 as the group home manager at Anthony Home, and transferred to Andrew home in December of 2007.

Amy joined the Andrew Home team in 2003.  She studied Sociology, Psychology and English at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside in Kenosha for several years and later continued her education at Waukesha County Technical College in the Human Services field. 

Currently, Amy is the Assistant Manger at Andrew Home.  She enjoys working with each resident and appreciates the ongoing learning process and challenges that occur daily.

Amy lives in Watertown with her husband, Tim, and awesome black lab Andy.  They love spending time outdoors walking, fishing and camping whenever possible. 

Chuck has been with Oconomowoc Residential Programs (Both ODTC and PWHO) since 1993. He began his career as a youth counselor and has held a number of different positions throughout the years including Group Home Manager of Galley House and Cheryl Home and Group home Coordinator for ODTC. Chuck became the Group Home Manger of Anthony Home in December of 2007. Over the years, Chuck has played an integral part in staff training and development and has assisted with the implementation of numerous group home policies and procedures.  Chuck has been supporting individuals diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome for over 14 years and is eager to not only learn more, but to also have the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with others.

“I have worked in this field for a long time. Seeing the positive changes in the people we support and helping them overcome challenges is a great reward. I know that I am truly fortunate to work with such amazing and inspiring people.”

In his spare time Chuck enjoys biking, skiing, traveling and good coffee.

Laura Baumann.
Assistant Manager for Anthony Home

Laura joined the PWHO team in November 2006 as a Residential Counselor at Stepping Stone. She then accepted the position as the Anthony Home Assistant Manager in August of 2007.

“The residents keep me on my toes every day. They teach me more than I could ever teach them. Watching them achieve their goals, no matter how big or small is one of the most rewarding parts of my day.”

Laura attended college at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and graduated with a Degree in Sociology with a Social Work emphasis and a Psychology Minor. She completed her internship at the Family Crisis Center in Stevens Point where she learned invaluable lessons that help every day here at PWHO.

In her spare time Laura enjoys reading, being outdoors and watching movies.

Jack Worden was born In the Finger Lakes area in Upstate New York. Jack served our country well, spending four years the United States Navy. He worked another four years as a firefighter in Glenview Illinois. In the mid-70’s he decided he wanted to work in the Human Services field and was hired by the State of Illinois to operate a group home for adults with disabilities.

Jack moved to Wisconsin in the late 80’s and began working at Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center. In 1993, he began working as a Behavior Specialist and has seen many changes in the company over the years. Jack is currently managing a 16 bed CBRF for Prader Willi Homes of Oconomowoc (PWHO).

“I enjoy the challenges and being able to see the difference we as a treatment team are making in the lives of our residents.”

Jack has 4 wonderful children and a wife who also works for PWHO as a Social Worker. He enjoys selling and buying antiques and searching rummages for that hidden treasure you may have seen and "trashed." He also enjoys riding his bike and diving.

Sarah Bresenhan worked for Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc for three years as a Residential Counselor and in October of 2005 became an Assistant Manager at Gatehouse. In addition to doing direct care she enjoys spending her time coaching Special Olympics bowling. Sarah received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Carroll College in December of 2004.

Sarah finds working with our residents and PWHO a continuous learning experience.

“Working directly with our residents, I learn something new every day, whether it’s about the residents, myself or life in general. The experiences I have had with PWHO have been priceless.”

When not at work, Sarah enjoys spending time with her godson and family. She also enjoys traveling, being outdoors and drawing.

Mike Jansen first started working with people with developmental disabilities back in 1996.  He volunteered and coached several sports for St. Colletta’s of Jefferson for about 3 years with his brother-in-law, who worked there at the time.  He got to travel all over the state and had a wonderful time with the athletes.  His experience and his joy of coaching led him to work there.  He worked at St. Colletta’s for two years as a Direct Care Staff Member and then became a House Manager.  His newly chosen career path then led him to come to PWHO. 

Mike has been at Gatehouse since 2002 as a Residential Counselor and is now an Assistant Manager. 

“I’ve gotten to know a lot of wonderful residents and staff that have come and gone.  I take a lot of joy coming in to work, knowing that I get to spend time and teach these residents everyday values.” 

Mike also works as an EMT for the Menomonee Falls Fire Department.  In the summer he enjoys traveling to different countries with his wife. During the winter, he enjoys exercising daily and playing hockey.   

Angie Lazu has been a member of the Hanson House team off and on since 1995 and became the Manager in August of 1997. She has worked with individuals with disabilities since 1991, starting out as a Child Care Technician working with the children at Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center.

“I enjoy spending time with all the Hanson House residents and going on Saturday community outings with them. I also love being a part of the treatment team and seeing the progress they have made in their lives.”

Angie lives in Oconomowoc with her husband and 1 year old daughter, whom she spends and enjoys all of her free time with.

Kelly Byrne came to Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in 2002, and began working as a Residential Counselor.  In 2005, she enthusiastically accepted the Assistant Manager position at Hanson House.  Kelly’s commitment to improving the quality of life for the people who live with us at PWHO is unquestionable and her dedication and leadership skills are commendable.

“I enjoy building relationships with the residents and offering our support to their families. It’s remarkably inspiring to know that we touch the lives of those we care for and that, even if it is only a small amount, have provided some peace of mind for the residents and their loved ones.  I truly love my job and the individuals who reside here.”

Kelly is an outdoors girl and enjoys hiking, biking, and camping.  She loves spending time with her family and friends and is an avid Packer Fan.  “Go Pack Go!”

Jamie Milaeger came to Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in February of 2006 as a Residential Counselor.  Jamie’s past experiences working with children and young adults with Autism, as well as children and young adults with terminal illnesses, has heightened her sensitivity to those with special needs.  Her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others is apparent in her daily activities.

In November of 2006, Jamie accepted the position of Group Home Manger at Lang home, where she continues to offer her skills, knowledge, and genuine compassion not only to the people she serves, but to the staff she supervises.

“Working with the residents has afforded me the opportunity to grow as a professional and as a person; an education that continues to pleasantly surprise me.”

Jamie has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.  In her free time, Jamie enjoys both water and snow skiing, playing football, and spending time with family.

Danielle came to Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in June of 2006, as a Residential Counselor.  In December of 2006, she enthusiastically accepted the position of Assistant Manager for Lang Home.  She is a dedicated individual who loves being able to help people and has a delightful ability to put a smile on someone’s face.
 
“I love spending time with the residents. They teach me something new every day. My experiences with PWHO so far have been very exiting and rewarding. I look forward to new experiences and challenges that I will face in the future.”

Danielle graduated from St. Norbert College with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology with an emphasis on Human Services. She grew up in Hawaii and moved to Wisconsin in 1998   She loves the sunny weather and enjoys being at the beach with her friends and family.

Martha began her employment with PWHO as a Residential Counselor at Margaret Ruth group home in August of 2003.  In July of 2005, she took on the responsibility of Assistant Manager at Margaret Ruth, and was promoted to Group Home Manager in June of 2006.

Martha graduated from the University of Whitewater in May of 2003 with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Spanish.  Martha’s degree serves her well in problem solving with each of the residents at Margaret Ruth. She is a valuable asset in helping to figure out the best treatment for each of the residents and their individual needs.  She enjoys joking with them and getting to know each of them on a personal level. 

“I love seeing our residents grow and gain the independence they strive for.” 

Martha and her younger sister grew up in Waukesha, Wisconsin.  Martha recently married in August of 2006 and has a son and a newborn baby girl.  Any extra time she may have, you may catch her reading or playing volleyball.

Shawn Bresnehan was born and raised in the Oconomowoc area.  Shortly after graduating from Oconomowoc High School in 2003, he began working as a Residential Counselor at Margaret Ruth home.  In May 2006, Shawn was promoted to Assistant Manager.  In addition to being Assistant Manager, Shawn is very active in coaching many of PWHO’s Special Olympic teams.

“I enjoy spending time with all the Margaret Ruth residents and all the residents from all of the PWHO Homes. I really enjoy coaching and going to all the Special Olympics tournaments with the residents.”

Shawn is very “laid back” and brings a “calmness” to Margaret Ruth.  He enjoys interacting and joking with the residents and loves to hear the laughter and see the smiles on their faces as they go about their day. 

Shawn grew up here in Oconomowoc and played football for the local high school.  He now spends his time chasing his almost 2 year old son.  On Saturday’s in the fall you can catch Shawn cheering for his Ohio State Buckeyes as well as spending the weekend watching NASCAR. 

Marsha Fox began working with adults with developmental disabilities in 2003 in La Crosse while attending college at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.  Marsha earned her degree in Psychology and went on to graduate school in St. Cloud, MN to obtain her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis. 

While Marsha lived in St. Cloud she worked at a group home with 4 adult women with varying developmental disabilities. Deciding to move back to Milwaukee to live with her sister (and her rabbit, Daisy), she worked as a third shift Counselor at a group home, until she was hired to become a Line Therapist for the Wisconsin Early Autism Project.  Marsha remembers fondly a 6-year old boy, who had touched her life deeply.  Marsha also worked as a Teacher’s Aide at St. Coletta’s Day School of Milwaukee.  Then she heard about Prader-Willi Syndrome, and changed career paths to come to PWHO. 

“I applied and immediately loved the Company, everyone working for it, and those who reside here.  While at times the work may be stressful, I greatly enjoy the challenge and I love knowing that I am helping make a difference, even in the smallest of ways at times, in a person’s life.”

Rose Martinez began as a Residential Counselor at Stepping Stone in 2003.  In July of 2006, she accepted the Assistant Manager position.  Rose is currently working on her degree in Social Services and finds her studies to be very helpful in her current position. 

At Stepping Stone, Rose enjoys teaching the girls coping skills to help them deal with any difficult situations they may encounter.  During her 3 years at Stepping Stone, she has “seen these ladies grow tremendously and it has been a very rewarding experience to be a part of their growth.” 

When Rose has free time, she enjoys spending it with her family.  She has 3 nephews that she loves to spend time with, as their “inquisitive minds” always puts a smile on her face.    

Angela Gall
Group Home Manager for Doherty Home

Angela came to PWHO in September of 2006, and in August of 2007 became the Group Home Manager.  Angela is a hard working, dedicated individual who enjoys helping others.

“I find that each day is a new experience, with immense rewards.  The great thing about PWHO is that everyone works collaboratively to make a difference in the lives of others.  ”

Angela graduated from the University of Wisconsin Green Bay with a Bachelor of Social Work and a minor in Human Development. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her nephew, hanging out with friends, and being outdoors.

Jennifer Beil
Assistant Group Home Manager for Doherty Home

Jennifer came to Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in May of 2007. In September, Jennifer eagerly accepted the assistant manager position striving to incorporate her military background into the new leadership role. Jennifer is a recent graduate of UW-Madison where she majored in Social Welfare and completed the certificate program in Women’s Studies. 

“I am a problem-solver.  Working at Doherty has presented me with a multitude of opportunities to use my creativity to help the residents live the most stress free life we can offer them.  The experience of helping people set, manage, and achieve major goals is one I can not imagine enjoying as much anywhere else.”

Jennifer grew up on a small farm in Northern Wisconsin. She served in the Air National Guard as a Public Health Medic and in her spare time enjoys outdoor activities, sports, maintaining her large fish tanks and collecting novels. 

Linda Wiggins has been working with people who have been diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome since 1989.  Linda enjoys the hands on experience of working with the residents and helping to make a difference in their lives.  Back in 1995 she assisted in the development of the first house motivational systems that are still being utilized in the therapeutic treatment programs in all of the Prader-Willi homes.

"There is no other job that would be as fulfilling for me.  Over the years I've seen the many changes of the residents we provide services for, nothing can compare to this feeling of accomplishment and success."

Currently Linda is part of the PWHO Admissions Team as Project Manager, and utilizes her years of experience and knowledge to assist with coordinating a successful transition for the individuals coming to us for placement, and for their families.  She also assists with numerous “behind the scenes” projects and tasks, which are critical to enabling activities and systems to run effectively.

Jayne Gierach, A.D.
Executive Administrative Assistant

Jayne Gierach began her career with Prader-Willi Homes of Oconomowoc in 1999 as a Residential Counselor at Hanson House.  Jayne’s past management experience and dedication to Prader-Willi Syndrome led to her quickly being promoted to the Assistant Manger of Anthony Home, and then to Group Home Manager of Anthony Home.

Jane then became the Manager of the newly opened Andrew Home, and was a major and integral part of making the new home, and transitions of people into the new home, successful.  In October of 2006, Jayne accepted the position of Executive Administrative Assistant.   She is excited to use her experience to work “behind the scenes” assisting the people who support the individuals who live in the group homes at PWHO.  Jayne’s dedication to making a difference and providing quality in the lives of those we care for is inspiring.  Her exuberance, enthusiasm and cheerful personality are motivating to others. 

“It is incredibly rewarding to work for a company whose mission is “to provide each individual with the opportunity to explore their highest potential of independence within a safe, supportive and comfortable environment.” Prader-Willi Syndrome is a challenging disorder.  Providing services to meet the specific individual’s needs takes hard work, dedication, and continued support.  The PWHO treatment team, which includes the staff at PWHO, the individual, and the individual’s family, together do an amazing job to provide a life they never believed they could have.  The success is remarkable and I am proud to work for a company that truly provides “Homes with a Heart.””

Jayne has a husband and two beautiful children.  She has an Associate’s Degree in Supervisory Management.  She enjoys spending time with her family, listening to music, camping, biking, and snow skiing.