Empower· Heal· Connect Anu Staff Members

Dr. Mechele Shipman

Chief Executive Officer (she/her/hers)

• Email Address: mshipman@anufs.org

Mechele Shipman, EdD, LCSW, is the Chief Executive Officer at Anu Family Services, Inc. and has been an Anu employee since 2006. Mechele is an author, international speaker, and consultant in the child welfare field.

Mechele has a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Mechele has a Master’s Degree in Science and Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Living from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Mechele completed the Permanency and Adoption Competency Certificate (PACC) at the University of Minnesota Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare.

Mechele began her child welfare career in 1992 and has spent her career advocating for children and families. Mechele has clinical experience doing in-home family therapy, as well as individual and group counseling with adolescents.

Mechele has over 20 years of experience in academia and is a Long Term Lecturer for the University of Wisconsin- Madison School of Social Work Graduate Program and the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Mechele has taught graduate and undergraduate level courses in social work supervision, child development, individual and family counseling, cultural diversity, work, and family issues, and child and adolescent counseling. Mechele served on the University of Wisconsin-Stout Human Development and Family Studies Advisory Committee for over 15 years. 

Mechele is the author/co-author of several articles in national publications and co-authored the Permanency Guidebook: A guide to changes in child welfare. Mechele has also written articles related to permanence-driven supervision and public speaking. Mechele currently serves on the national Foster Family-based Treatment Association’s (FFTA) Board of Directors. Mechele was awarded the Outstanding Faculty Award by the Multicultural Student Services Organization at UW-Stout. 

Mechele has presented nationally and has provided training and consultation for agencies in the areas of strength-based supervision practices. Mechele provides training and consultation in Leadership Fortitude, Ethics and Boundaries in the Helping Profession, Self-Care and Work-Life Harmony, Courageous Leadership, Organizational Change, and many other topics.

Lindsey Engel

Office Administrator - Eau Claire
(she/her/hers)

Lindsey Engel has a BA in Journalism and a minor in Spanish from UW-Eau Claire. She also has a certification in graphic design from Ashworth College. She joined Anu Family Services as an Office Administrator in August 2021. 

Outside of work, she usually spends her time with her husband and pets (one very energetic red heeler and three cats) or doing something nerdy. She loves reading, drawing, video games, and weekly Dungeons & Dragons sessions.

Tina Feigal

Director of Family Engagement

Tina Feigal M.S., Ed. is a former school psychologist, mother of three wonderful sons, and grandmother of three spunky kids. Tina’s passion is bringing peace to homes and schools, by helping adults to heal challenging child behavior with the specific, highly effective Present Moment Parenting and Teaching. Since 2000, she has operated the Center for the Challenging Child, now a branch of Anu Family Services. As a coach and trainer for professionals interested in coaching, Tina supports adults in applying the techniques in her book, “Present Moment Parenting: The Guide to a Peaceful Life with Your Intense Child.” Tina certifies coaches as part of her vision that every adult who wants a parent coach can pick up the phone and find one! She also serves as a mentor to Anu’s coaching team. Tina has been featured as the Minneapolis Star Tribune and KARE 11 TV Extra’s “Supernanny.” Learn more about parent coaching and coach training at www.parentingmojo.com.

Heidi Mayer

Chief Operating Officer

Heidi Mayer MSW, LCSW, has over 20 years of experience working in the child welfare system. Heidi joined the agency in 1997; since that time, she has carried various job responsibilities including; permanence specialist, family connections specialist, and southern regional director. Heidi has her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Bachelor’s of Social Work degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Prior to joining Anu Family Services, Heidi worked in adult corrections for male offenders and a residential treatment program for adolescents.

Hilary McElroy

Director of Community Programs

Hilary McElroy, MS, LPC, has been working with children and families in Wisconsin since 2000.  Hilary joined Anu Family Services in 2013 as a Treatment Foster Care Permanence Specialist, and she also spent 2 years working in the Intensive Permanence Services program.  In 2015, she became the Director of the Parent Coaching program.  Hilary has her Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and she currently resides in Madison, WI. 

Dave Newman

Director of Outreach and Recruitment

Dave Newman, has been working with children and families since 1982. Dave worked with children in group homes, residential treatment centers, and in treatment foster care. In August 2010, Dave joined Anu Family Services as the Northern Regional Director. The Northern Region Serves a large portion of the state, employing 3 Permanence Specialists, and approximately 35 treatment foster families.

Kristine Reddy

Chief Financial Officer

Kristine Reddy, CPA, MBA, joined Anu Family Services in 2018. She has over 25 years of experience working in positions within accounting, non-profit and governmental industries. Prior to joining Anu, Kristine worked in non-profit outsourcing at Clifton Larson Allen. She has worked at USDA Rural Development as a field representative. Kristine also worked in public accounting, working at Olsen Thielen & Co., Ltd and was self-employed.

Kristine has taught financial accounting and auditing at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management and Metropolitan State University. She has her MBA from Metropolitan State University and a BA in accounting from Gustavus Adolphus College.

Jenny Plitzner

Program Manager for Community Based Flexible Support Program & Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Jenny Plitzner, MS, LPC, CSW, has a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling from Winona State University and Certified Social Work from Upper Iowa University. She joined the agency in 2017. Jenny is available to provide Parent Coaching and Flexible Support services in Burnett, Chippewa, Pierce, Polk and Taylor Counties.

Jenny has experience as a county foster parent and feels called to give back and support others. Her favorite thing about her job is providing hope, building connections, and assisting others with their healing.

Outside of work, Jenny enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her family.

Emily Jo Sutherland

Community Flexible Support Specialist and Parent/Youth Coach (she/her/hers)

Emily Jo Sutherland, BS, has a bachelor’s degree in School and Community Health Education from Winona State University. She joined the agency in 2020. Emily is available to provide Flexible Support Services and Parent/Youth Coaching services in Burnett, Buffalo, Chippewa, Pepin, Washburn, and Taylor Counties.
Emily has a love of wellness and a desire to help others reach their wellness potentials in all aspects of health—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and in their relationships. Her favorite thing about her job is getting to know a variety of people and building relationships with them while helping them build skills to better their lives.
Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with her family (4 kids that are very active in sports). She plays volleyball on a team with her husband, working and volunteering at her church, playing games, and make healthy meals at home!

Amanda Brenden

ITS Resiliency Specialist (she/her/hers)

Amanda Brenden, MSW, joined Anu Family Services in 2021.  She earned her Associate Degree in Childhood Education from Chippewa Valley Technical College, Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, and her Master of Social Work from University of Wisconsin – Madison.  Amanda is available to provide Intensive Permanence/Trauma Services in the following counties: Buffalo, Barron, Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Rusk, St. Croix, Taylor, and Washburn.

Personal experience and a calling to support others led Amanda to community services. As a student teacher for Head Start, she saw an opportunity to advocate and improve lives as a social worker instead of a teacher. This led to a change in her academic and professional career path. During the last ten years, Amanda has had the opportunity to advocate for kids, adults, and groups in many ways. Amanda says, “I am all about celebrating small successes or steps in the right direction.  It is my belief that we are all here to serve others and walk together towards healing. Advocating for others is an honor and responsibility I hold very dearly.” Amanda treasures her time spent with people on their journey towards healing, and she truly enjoys spending time and creating connections with the people she works with. “I love that this work is consumer-led, and I am able to meet people where they are physically and emotionally. It is a privilege to be invited into someone’s life and join them on their path toward healing.”

Outside of her work at Anu, Amanda loves spending time with her family, enjoying the outdoors, playing games, or watching TV. Her happy place is anywhere near the water. Amanda also enjoys listening to music, hiking, and learning.

Lexi Bryant

ITS Resiliency Specialist (she/her/hers)

Lexi Bryant, M.S., joined Anu Family Services in 2021. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Vocational Rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin – Stout and her Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. Lexi provides Intensive Permanence/Trauma Services in the following counties: Buffalo, Barron, Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Rusk, St. Croix, and Washburn.

Lexi's educational background and previous work experiences are what led her to the helping profession. She started my professional career working as a youth mentor and providing supervised visitations for families. Lexi immediately gained a passion for helping individuals and wanted to further her career. Lexi shared, "What drew me to Anu was the agency's wide array of family-centered services." When asked what she likes best about her position, Lexi shared that she enjoys all the different people she gets to work with. Working with people who are different from you gives a unique opportunity to learn and grow, and Lexi is constantly learning something new each day. Lexi stated, "Creating a meaningful connection with someone gives me a sense of purpose, and that is why I love what I do!"

"When I am not working, I like to spend time with my two English Bulldogs, Kirby and Floyd. My fiancé and I love doing projects around our home, too!" They have become quite the fixer-uppers since buying their first home. Lexi further enjoys spending time with friends and family doing things such as shopping, taking walks, cooking, and spending time outdoors.

Katie Johnson

ITS Program Manager (she/her/hers)

Katie Johnson, MSW, LCSW, joined Anu Family Services in April 2022 as the ITS Program Manager. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from UW Oshkosh and a Master’s degree in Social Work from UW Madison.

When asked what led her to this field, she said, “When I was in college the first time, like many young people, I didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I was on my third different major.  A friend of mine suggested I take a course called ‘Domestic Violence’, and that was it for me.  I found out what major included this class, and that was it for me.  The fourth major was the right one!” Her favorite thing about her job is making things happen so that people can do and feel better. 

When not working, she enjoys walking, reading, and gardening. 

Andrew Larson

ITS Resiliency Specialist (he/him/his)

Andrew Larson, BS, has been an Anu employee since 2018. He has his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. He is currently attending Lakeland University, working toward a Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. Andrew is available to provide Flexible Support services in Barron, Chippewa, Dunn, Pierce, St. Croix, and Taylor Counties.

When Andrew was in high school, he discovered a desire to help others. He has been working with adults his entire career but has recently rekindled his passion for working with children and families. His favorite thing about the Flexible Support Program is community engagement and helping others build their skills.

When Andrew is not working, he loves to be outdoors, especially in the summer!

Erika Williams

ITS Resiliency Specialist (she/her/hers)

Erika Williams, MSW, joined the Intensive Permeance/Trauma team in 2021. She received her Master of Social Work degree from George Williams College of Aurora University in Williams Bay, WI. Erika provides Intensive Permanence/Trauma Services in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties.

Erika knew she was meant to work with children at a young age, as she helped her younger brother navigate Autism Spectrum Disorder. This led her to pursue a higher education in Social Work with a focus on youth populations. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree, she began her professional career by teaching local youth in an after-school program with Girls Inc. While obtaining her master’s degree, Erika took on roles as an intervention specialist and a youth residential stabilization worker. These enriching experiences have led Erika to Anu, where she is excited to invest in healing work with youth. “Every child deserves to understand and heal from their past and emotions. My favorite part of this position is that as I work with each child, we both grow by learning, healing, and enlightening one another. There is always something to learn from each youth, as they discover and empower themselves. I’m honored to make connections with each youth and grow with them!”

When Erika is not working, she is investing her time in her loved ones and passions. Erika enjoys spending time with her friends and family, adventuring to new places, playing video games, attending concerts, and more. Some of her hobbies include bullet journaling, hammocking, playing with her dogs, discovering new music, swimming, and dancing around.

Luke Andermann

Parent Coach (he/him/his)

Luke Andermann started with Anu Family Services as a Parent Coach in October 2021. He has an M.S. in Education and works out of the Madison region. 

When asked what led him to this field, he said, "I have worked with youth and families for many years in many situations, and I have come to realize how important it is to help parents be the best they can to give their children the opportunities they deserve."

When he is not at work he enjoys reading, biking, skiing, building things, and spending time with his family.

Wendy Buettner

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Wendy Buettner, MSE, has been an Anu employee since 2016. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and a Master’s Degree in Reading, both from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Wendy is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Jefferson, Milwaukee, and Waukesha Counties.

Before her job at Anu, Wendy worked as a teacher for 20+ years. “I knew that I still wanted to work with families and help children, but in a different capacity. I knew that parenting could be both rewarding and challenging, and I wanted to give families support to deal with challenging situations, mental health issues, and trauma.”

“I love a lot of things about my job, but probably the best thing is when a parent tells you a story that shows that they are getting the outcome they want by building a connection with their child, by truly seeing and hearing them.”

Outside of work, Wendy likes to go hiking, biking, reading, writing, and getting together with family and friends.

Jill Davis

Certified Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Jill Davis, B.S, has been an Anu employee since 2021.  She has a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.  Jill provides Parent Coaching services in Burnett, Barron, Chippewa, Polk, Washburn, and surrounding counties. 

Jill has had a successful history of working within the education field.  She states, “I was an early childhood educator in the public schools for over 20 years. I was looking for a career change that would allow me to use my understanding of child development to make a positive impact on the lives of children and their families.” 

Jill’s favorite things about working in this field is, “I’m new to the parent coaching field so I am not sure what will be the best part of my job, but I know helping families build healthy relationships will be part of it.” 

When Jill is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, which includes a preschool age grandson.  She also likes to work on home improvement projects such as painting as decorating. 

Rosa Feliciano

Parent Coach (Bilingual) (she/her/hers)

Started with Anu Family Services: 2015

Rosa Feliciano started as a Treatment Foster Care Parent over ten years ago. She joined the Anu team as a Parent Coach in 2015. Rosa is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Milwaukee County.

Rosa feels everyone deserves a second chance and should be shown compassion. She most enjoys working directly with people and being able to help them find solutions and give them hope.

Outside of her work as a parent coach and a foster parent, she enjoys gardening, spending time with her children and grandchildren, quiet times, and cooking.

Ellie Flowers

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Ellie Flowers, M.Ed., has her Bachelor’s Degree from Daemen College in Amherst, New York, in Early Childhood/Special Education. She then went on to receive her Master’s Degree from Buffalo State College in Early Childhood/Special Education. She joined the agency in 2019. Ellie is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Columbia, Dane, Dodge, and Sauk Counties.

Ellie was led to this field by working with children who had experienced trauma and became aware of the lack of support and education available for parents who want to help their children. She wanted to share the training she had received in child development and trauma-informed care in order to help families to have compassion and understanding for one another so that they can build upon their relationships.

The thing Ellie likes the best about her job as a Parent Coach at Anu is the experience of being a part of another person’s journey as they restore hope in themselves and their children.

When Ellie is not working, she likes to study, practice, and teach yoga. She enjoys restful time meditating, journaling, cooking, and reading. In active time, she likes running, climbing, dancing, and hiking. Ellie feels most at peace when she is in the mountains.

Kenya Gaines-Brown

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Kenya Gaines-Brown joined Anu Family Services as a Parent Coach in January 2022 working out of the Milwaukee region. She has a BA from Marquette University. 

When asked what led her to the field she says, “I have always worked as a family and child advocate in my community, and I have been looking to focus more on parents and guardians.” The thing she likes best about her job is being able to remind parents, guardians, and primary caregivers of children that they already possess the knowledge they need to help foster a safe and loving environment for their children.

When not at work, she loves gift making, painting, yoga, eating, going to concerts, and watching documentaries.

Kathy Heim

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Kathy Heim, BS, MEPD, joined Anu Family Services in 2018.  She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and Master of Education in Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls.  Kathy is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Barron, Burnett, Chippewa, Dunn, Pierce, Polk, Rusk, St. Croix, and Washburn Counties.

Kathy is from a big family and has always enjoyed children. “After retiring from the education field, I wanted to continue helping children and families. I heard about the Parent Coaching program while on spring break vacation, and I applied at Anu when a position opened. I love the flexibility, positivity, and there is never a dull moment in this work.”

When Kathy is not working, she enjoys time with her family, traveling, golfing, boating, walking, and socializing over lunch.  

Kaylen Kammers

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Kaylen Kammers, BS, started with Anu Family Services in October 2022 working out of the Chippewa Falls/Eau Claire area. The first degree she received was an Associates in Early Childhood Education from Chippewa Valley Technical College. She then went on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from University of Wisconsin Stout. 

When asked what led her to this field, she said, "I have always found myself gravitating toward working with families and children. My past experiences of working in childcare lead me to wanting to help families outside of the daycare and obtaining more knowledge on how I could do that." The thing she likes best about her job is experiencing first-hand the development of the foundation of a strong relationship between members of the family that resemble connection and safety.

Fun fact: she has been a dedicated vegetarian for 13 years!  

Cheryl (Shari) Larson

Community Programs Supervisor/Trainer (she/her/hers)

Shari Larson, MS, Ed, LPC, has been an Anu employee since 2015. She attended the University of Wisconsin – Stout; and she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development/Family Science and Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling with Certification in both Educational Counseling and Professional Counseling. Shari is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, and St. Croix Counties.

Before becoming a Parent Coach at Anu, Shari worked in the public-school system as a School Counselor for over 20 years. At Anu, she loves working on teams to support and guide children and families toward positive, loving relationships that strengthen their resilience and hope for a better future. Shari is passionate about children experiencing a safe, happy, and healthy life. She believes, “Families are essential!”

Outside of work, Shari likes to be with her family and friends. She enjoys traveling, boating, reading a good book, playing cards/games, bike rides, watching most sports, and going on nature walks.

Andrea Lemke-Rochon

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Andrea joined Anu Family Services as a Parent Coach in 2022, working out of Calumet County. Andrea became a social worker to help children become happy, healthy and well-adjusted adults. Andrea has worked in child welfare supporting children and families for 30 years. She understands that the most effective way to help children is to help and support the adults who care for them. Often, traumatic experiences within a family, even generations back, can lead to an array of challenges for parents and children. Andrea believes that healing from trauma is possible, and that parents and caregivers are the best people to lead this healing effort. She knows, that as people heal emotionally, behaviors improve. Proven parenting strategies that focus on building a deep and trusting connection with children promotes emotional healing, a sense of well-being and behavioral improvement.

When asked what she likes best about her job, she said, "As a social worker, I have seen many parents benefit from Anu Parent Coaching. I am excited to join the parent coaching team and to share with parents what I’ve learned through my many years as a social work professional and as a mom. I look forward to helping parents and caregivers learn practices that will have a positive impact on their children. Most of all, I enjoy developing positive, trusting relationships with people. I love encouraging people to nurture their own well-being and in-turn they nurture the well-being of those they love. The ripple effect of this is so lovely."

In her spare time she loves spending quality time with her family and friends. She enjoys being in nature, especially kayaking, skiing, hiking, camping, and walking her dogs. She also enjoys reading, music, meditation, and good food. 

Sandra Litchfield

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Sandra Litchfield, BS, MS, joined Anu Family Services in 2018. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point and a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling (K-12 School Counseling) from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. Sandra is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Manitowoc and Outagamie Counties.

Sandra worked as a school counselor for 13 years before coming to Anu. “My years as a school counselor helped me develop a true understanding of the importance of empowering parents by creating connected and healing relationships with their children. Becoming a Parent Coach aligned perfectly with allowing me to help parents heal their families.”

“I love watching the result-based approach of Present Moment Parenting change lives and families.”

When Sandra isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her partner and four daughters, ages 12-22. They enjoy outdoor activities: gardening, landscaping, walking/playing with the dogs, sledding, hiking, and visiting state parks.

Nicole McCallips

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Nicole Krakowiak, MS, has been an Anu employee since 2021.  She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health from Northern Illinois University and Master’s Degree in Human Services from The University of Illinois – Springfield.  Nicole provides Parent Coaching in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. 

For years Nicole struggled to narrow down a career field that she was passionate about: public health, teaching, child development, counseling, therapy, social work. But her favorite element of these different paths all had one commonality: working with families to promote positive behavior in children at the most important and impactful source…the parents! Every family is unique, which is why the individualized approach of parent coaching is so essential.  Nicole’s favorite part of working at Anu is the support and encouragement from the agency to always learn, grow, and acquire new skills. She is honored by the opportunity to be a part of a family’s journey as parents become empowered by present moment parenting and heal their relationships with their children and themselves. 

When she is not parent coaching, Nicole enjoys biking, vintage shopping, crafting, playing board games with friends and family, and exploring the beautiful city of Milwaukee.

Marilyn B. Shafonda-Gauger

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Marilyn Safonda-Gauger, BA Ed, has a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota. She joined the agency in 2017. Marilyn is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, and St. Croix Counties.

“My life passion for education and working with children and parents led me to Anu to work as a Parent Coach. Believing that all learning first takes place in the home inspired me to embrace the opportunity to serve as a parent coach offering guidance, support, and hope to families that are struggling.”

“My top ‘strength’ is empathy. I like being able to use my gifts to help others. It is very rewarding to see how you can make a difference in the life of another individual by simply ‘showing up’ and offering validation and connection to someone who had never experienced that before. It is also rewarding to see the parent-child relationship blossom when needs are identified, and challenges are overcome.”

When Marilyn isn’t working, she loves being in nature, traveling, reading, and spending quality time with her family, which includes five grandchildren.

Brittany S. Stumph

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Brittany Stumph, BS, has been an Anu employee since 2018. She majored in Elementary Education and minored in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin – Superior. Brittany is available to provide Parent Coaching services for All One Employee Assistance Program, as well as Barron, Burnett, Chippewa, Pierce, Polk, and Washburn Counties. Prior to coming to Anu to work as a Parent Coach, Brittany worked as an educator in the school system. When asked what led her to Anu, she says, “While working in the schools, I found absolute joy working with families to help support their child’s academic needs. Through positive communication and collaboration with parents, I was helping parents to strengthen their relationship with their child. Learning about the Parent Coaching program during my maternity leave sparked my interest in becoming a Parent Coach. I have always had a passion for helping others. As a Parent Coach, I am able to put my Education background and my passion for helping families together.”

Brittany’s favorite part of her job is watching the positive progressions from the beginning of Parent Coaching to the family’s graduation from working with a Parent Coach. She enjoys seeing a parent/guardian start to build their confidence in putting the skills and strategies they learned in Parent Coaching to use and watching the deep and meaningful relationships between parent and child blossom. She believes this is a special thing to be a part of and makes her work at Anu rewarding.

When Brittany is not at work, her favorite thing to do is spend quality time with her two little boys and husband being outdoors. She loves camping, cookouts, campfires, and walks. When she gets a moment to herself, she likes to paint and draw.

Jennifer Troia

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Jennifer Troia, B.A., CSW, has been an Anu employee since 2021.  She has a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology from Cardinal Stritch University.  Jennifer provides Parent Coaching to clients in Milwaukee County.

Jennifer  worked as a social worker in the health care field for over 10 years and loved connecting with patients through difficult times. She also enjoyed coordinating community services to support them in their recoveries post hospitalization. This position allowed her to help for a small snapshot of time but it did not allow her to support them for the longer haul. Jennifer has always wanted to work with families in some capacity. Parenting can be challenging, and everyone deserves support.  Helping parents build stronger relationships with their children through present moment parenting is priceless! Jennifer is excited to work as a Parent Coach because the “innovative methodology provided by Anu incorporates multiple proven strategies that are both rewarding and impactful.” 

When Jennifer is not working, she enjoys spending time with her beautiful blended family, camping, traveling, and gardening.

Skylar Turek

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Skylar Turek, CSW, has a Bachelor of Social Work from The College of Saint Scholastica. She began working for Anu in 2021 and works out of the Northwestern Wisconsin area.

As a survivor of childhood trauma, Skylar has a keen awareness of the importance of strengthening family connections and ensuring every child has at least one caring adult with whom they feel safe. Her desire is to see all parents equipped and empowered to provide the best possible care for their children. She has witnessed the negative effects of children changing placements because a caregiver is unsure how to navigate their child’s pain-based behaviors. Skylar believes parent coaching can make all the difference in achieving safety, permanency, and wellbeing for children. She wants to help families gain the knowledge and confidence to support their children through the most difficult times so they can fully embrace the joys of parenthood.

Skylar’s favorite part of working at Anu is the culture! Anu’s staff are highly educated, trauma-conscious, and strengths-based. And everyone is so encouraging and uplifting! Additionally, Anu provides a flexible schedule to allow for an excellent work-life balance.

When Skylar is not working, she loves spending time with her husband and baby boy (born July 2020). They enjoy hiking, biking, and traveling together. She also likes trail running and has a goal of running an ultra-marathon one day!

Jenny Wagner

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Jenny Wagner, MS, comes to Anu with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and a Master’s Degree from Capella University. She has a Paralegal degree from Madison College, served on the Governor’s Council on Domestic Abuse, and has a strong background working with LGBTQ families. Jenny recently completed a 40 hour course on interpersonal neurobiology (IPNB) led by Dr. Dan Siegel and is a certified grief support specialist. She joined Anu Family Services in 2020. Jenny is available to provide Parent Coaching and Individualized Trauma Services in Columbia, Dane, Dodge, and Sauk Counties.

Jenny’s experience as an adoption social worker, classroom teacher, and victim advocate brought her to Anu. She says Parent Coaching gives her the opportunity to understand how strong parent/child relationships support children through all aspects of their lives. She believes family relationships are paramount and is honored to help parents and guardians strengthen their bond with their children. “Everyone’s parenting style is unique – it’s always an adventure helping parents find what works best for themselves and their children,” Jenny says.

When Jenny isn’t working, she likes to go biking and camping with her family and take trips to her family cabin in the Northwoods. Jenny is creative, and she enjoys painting, drawing, sewing, making jewelry, calligraphy, cooking, and reading anything and everything. She also confessed to watching too much “bad TV.”

Wendy Weinfurter

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Wendy Weinfurter, MAC, joined Anu in October 2022. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point and a master’s degree in counseling from Lakeland University. Wendy provides Parent Coaching to families in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Dodge Counties.

Before becoming a Parent Coach with Anu, Wendy was a School Counselor working with children in elementary and middle school. “I loved working with my students and loved watching them grow and learn and change throughout the years. But I was ready for a new adventure.” Being a Parent Coach allows her to continue to work with families to help them reach their goals.

In her free time, Wendy enjoys reading a good book, going for walks, taking classes at the gym, trivia and game nights, traveling to warmer destinations, or just hanging out with family and friends.

Julie Wilmot

Parent Coach (she/her/hers)

Julie is available to provide Parent Coaching services in Dane, Dodge, Columbia, and Sauk Counties.

Joslyn Armagost

Treatment Foster Care Permanence Specialist (she/her/hers)

Joslyn Armagost, CSW, has been an Anu employee since 2019. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin – Superior. Joslyn works in the Northern Region of Wisconsin.

Joslyn has a passion for wanting to work with children and families who have experienced trauma. She loves working with Anu families knowing each day will be different, and there is no expectation of how her day will “look.” She enjoys the personal interaction with the vast array of people she meets in her work.

When Joslyn is not working, she loves to hang out with friends and family and just really enjoys being around people.

Becky Germain

Director of Treatment Foster Care (she/her/hers)

Becky Germain, MSW, APSW, has been an Anu employee since 2006. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Becky works in the Northern Region of Wisconsin.

Becky has always had a desire to work with children and help them to be their best. She enjoys seeing the progress each child makes, as well as spending time with each family and learning from them.

When Becky isn’t working, she likes to spend time with her children, reading, and fishing.

Autumn Hall

Treatment Foster Care Permanence Specialist

Autumn Hall joined Anu Family Services in 2022 as a Treatment Foster Care Permanence Specialist. Autumn has her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and she currently resides in Eleva, WI.

Outside of work, she usually spends her time with her two children swimming, playing at the park, or going camping. She loves playing board games (specifically Catan), sitting around the campfire, and using her crockpot.

Denise Hoffman

Office Administrator Southern Region Treatment Foster Care (she/her/hers)

Denise joined Anu Family Services in 2000.  She has a passion for wanting to be a good support person for staff and foster families, and she loves being able to help wherever she is needed.

Denise appreciates the agencies view of taking care of its employees so they can take care of their people.   She likes the relationships with her co-workers and helping them meet their objectives.  She is so proud of Anu’s foster families as they provide stability and consistency for foster youth in their homes.

When Denise is not busy at work, she loves spending time with her family and pets, working out, and her new passion of kayaking.   

Rachel Klumb

Treatment Foster Care Permanence Specialist (she/her/hers)

Rachel Klumb, BSW, CSW, has been an Anu employee since 2018. She comes to Anu with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Rachel works in the Southern Region of Wisconsin.

Rachel was led to the field of social work by her passion for every child to experience unconditional love and security. She loves working closely with all her Anu families and learning from one another along the way. “I love watching the children flourish and grow.”

When not working, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family. “My spouse and I frequently travel with our son and love to hike and explore new places.”

Mike Norby

Office Administrator Northern Region Treatment Foster Care (he/him/his)

Mike Norby joined the Anu Family Services team as an Office Administrator for Treatment Foster Care in February 2022. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from Rasmussen University in Healthcare Management and aspirations to eventually obtain his Master’s Degree in Business Administration. 

When asked what led him to the field, he said, "I have had a desire to help others for as far back as I can remember. Having worked in the Human Services field for the last 10 years, primarily with adults with disabilities, I have found that helping others has been the most rewarding job there is." His favorite part about the job is knowing that we are making a difference in others’ lives.

When not at work, he is very passionate about giving back to the community. Currently, he is a board member for a local non-profit as well as the Chairperson for the fair committee in his hometown. When he has down time he enjoys spending time with his dog, Zeus, as well as traveling, playing video games and spending time with my extended family and friends.