Hover over or click a photo to read bio and contact information.
Amy Blair
Director of Stakeholder Engagement
Email Amy
I have worked in human services for 10+ years as both a direct service provider and a county planner and am passionate about simplifying systems with innovative ideas and strong community partnerships. When I am not working alongside my Hearth Connection teammates and our partners, I enjoy exploring different types of music and spending time with family.
Tasha Clark
Program Policy Manager
Email Tasha
I believe that homelessness is a solvable problem, and we need to move beyond the mindset of charity towards social justice. The solution cannot be found with a siloed approach; it requires social innovation that is more inclusive of those with lived experience and working in direct support service roles. I strive to be part of a system that works for all people, and I view compliance work as an important tool in advancing equitable policies and standards. My hobbies include kayaking in the backwaters and exploring neighborhoods for architectural gems (my favorite being Tudor Revival Homes).
Laura R. Craig (she/her)
Director of Project Development
Email Laura
I have worked in human service organizations focused on supportive services in homelessness and housing for over 20 years. When not working, I enjoy gardening, live music, and spending time with family and friends.
Kristine Davis (she/her)
Deputy Executive Director
Email Kristine
My career in social work started 30 years ago and has included street outreach, case management, program administration and public policy. In my free time, you’ll hopefully find me on a trail in the woods or on the water.
Sofia-Bella Vitale-Gill (she/her)
Community Organizer
Email Sofia
I have worked in supportive housing for 7+ years as both a provider of support services and as a developer of supportive housing for homeless individuals. When I am not working, I enjoy knitting, traveling, and watch the Great British Bake Off.
Eric Hands (he/him)
Director of Software Development
Email Eric
I have worked as a software developer and consultant for over 25 years with experience in government, non-profit, and Fortune 500 organizations. I have been the lead developer of Co-Pilot since its inception in 2003. Outside of work, I am a devoted father who enjoys all manner of arts and crafts including martial arts, cooking, gardening, and woodworking.
Julie Jones
Operations Manager
Email Julie
I hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration and have over 20 years of hands-on experience. My role at Hearth Connection has evolved over the years from Office Manager to Human Resources Manager. When I’m not working, you can find me knitting, reading, or enjoying time with my grandkids.
Louisa Montague (she/her)
Learning & Development Manager
Email Louisa
I worked in human services for 15+ years in direct service provision and program management before moving to a learning and development role. My role allows me to leverage my experience as a provider while centering my commitment to equity and my love for lifelong learning. When I am not at work, you’ll find me exploring local parks with my family or curled up with a good book.
Tavia Osgood
Program Operations Generalist
Email Tavia
With over 10 years of experience in the administrative field, I am a natural collaborator and problem solver. My role is to assure the behind the scenes work of the organization is accomplished and promote successful onboarding for new staff. During my leisure time, you may find me enjoying the outdoors, spending time with my family, or cooking.
Winda Roets
Director of Finance
Email Winda
I am honored to put my accounting and finance background to use in serving Hearth Connection and its mission. Giving back to our community is a big part of me, and I dedicate some of my spare time to the Dragonfly Project as a member of their board.
Briana Rutscher
Program Operations Coordinator
Email Briana
I have worked in the human services field for 7+ years. I am passionate about helping others. When I’m not working, you can find me spending time with my husband and two children or watching volleyball.
Marcus Schmit (he/him)
Executive Director
Email Marcus
Shaped by 15+ years in public service and nonprofit advocacy, I know building authentic relationships is essential for success and no challenge is insurmountable when all those who are impacted by decisions are at the table. When I’m not focused on supporting my colleagues or advancing Hearth Connection’s mission, you can find me enjoying a local playground or coffee shop with my young kids.
Jua Simpson (he/him)
Accountant
Email Jua
I have a degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance and a minor in investing/finance from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. I have been working as an accounting professional since 2021, and I am excited to continue my professional development at Hearth Connection. When I am not moving numbers around, you can find me cooking new recipes, gaming or keeping up with sports!
Milika Warfield
Data Quality Specialist
Email Milika
I bring two decades of service in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors to my role at Hearth Connection. When I’m not working, you can find me spending time with my family, researching information, or sitting in a meditative state of Zen.