Jordan Martell
I started Out of the Wilderness in 2020 as a result of what I would consider in the moment as “a chance conversation” with one of my wife’s chiropractic patients. She told me I needed to consider becoming a provider and how in need of healthy people who can show support and care of others our surrounding communities are. I didn’t sleep for a couple nights thereafter. I thought I was climbing the corporate ladder, but God was definitely working on me in this. OotW officially launched the week COVID shut down the world, but if anything it positioned us to truly be that light in a dark place for those we serve.
I love this team of people. They are of the highest quality, not just in skillset but in character and heart, to live out what God has called us to.
Current Capacity: 0
Carter Lee
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Siren, WI
Service Provider Guru & QA Team Lead
Carter Lee received a bachelor’s degree in finance from Rasmussen College in 2018. He was employed by Wells Fargo for three years, and has construction and as a courier. Carter’s professional interests focus on positively impacting lives and helping others achieve their goals. Carter grew up in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, and now lives in Siren with his wife, and baby girl. He enjoys spending time with extended family, playing hockey, drumming, and weight lifting.
Watching people and families benefit and grow, over time, from his help, is one of his favorite parts of the relationships he’s making. Carter enjoys helping people in any way they may need and he will do his best to help anyone that he is able to. He is open to new challenges with a positive attitude and eager to become a positive influence in as many lives as possible.
Available Capacity: 0
Michelle Ritzinger
Bachelors, Parent Peer Support Specialist
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Menomonie, WI
I grew up in Chippewa Falls and currently live outside of Menomonie with my boyfriend Allan and puppy Brynlee. My 3 adult children, who are thriving and living out their dreams are all within close proximity and are a very big part of my life. I have lived in Wisconsin all of my life with the exception of 3 years in Rapid City, SD, and love the outdoors. On my off time you’ll find me hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking and just being in nature and appreciating all that God has given us. My faith is very important to me and I enjoy weekly bible study and supporting youth on Wednesday night at the youth group at my church.I have recently begun a graduate program for Marriage and Family Therapy through UW Superior and am eager to use my new education to further help others.
Throughout my life I have worked through my own anxiety and other struggles. I supported my 3 stepdaughters and their father who all struggled with mental health disorders. I have also survived an abusive relationship and now have the ability to supports others in this area as well. With the life experience and training I have completed, I was drawn to the opportunity to work with Out of the Wilderness and continue my journey in a life guided by God and helping others.
Over the last 5 years I have worked the CCS and CLTS programs providing skill development, psychoeducation, and parenting support. As a Certified Parent Peer Specialist, I truly enjoy supporting parents who are struggling and in need of someone to be there to walk alongside them through the difficult days or parenting. I have worked with all ages of children a d not only with parents, but with grandparents as well.
Available Capacity: 6
Kristin Nelson
Para
ISDE, Wellness, service arrays
St. Croix Falls, WI
Hi, I’m Kristin Nelson, wife of 19 years to my high school sweetheart and mom to two active children. Born and raised in Somerset, Wi. I’ve always had a passion forcaring for others, especially in times of need, and helping individuals embrace positive change when life calls for it. In my 20s and early 30s, I served as a volunteer EMT and fire fighter, but at age 36, my own journey of transformation began. By focusing on nutrition, I gained a deeper understanding of health boundaries, emotional wellness, and the power of a supportive environment in personal growth. This transformation not only impacted my own life but also enhanced the well-being of my family.
For the past three years, I’ve worked as a Habit Health Coach specializing in nutrition, guiding others to experience freedom in their mind, body, and soul. I’m also in my second season as a lead teacher for our local school’s wrap-around program, working with PreK children. I love walking alongside people of all ages, helping them build structure, self-worth, confidence, and trust. Being active, always learning, and growing through new adventures are central to my journey. I find joy in meaningful conversations, whether it’s walking and talking, sipping coffee, playing a good old game of Battleship, basketball, coloring, or by simply being intentional about time with clients.I believe in the power of 1-on-1 time to celebrate milestones and help you grow into who you’re called to be, whether as a child or an adult, in your community or home life.
Available Capacity: 3
Don Smith
Para
ISDE, Wellness service arrays
Hudson, WI
Hello, my name is Don. I grew up in Virginia with my 3 sisters and 11 nieces and nephews. My background is in Customer Service and Community Relations. I spent 8 years representing my local Credit Union at networking events, school functions, and civic organizations. It was here that I discovered my passion for leadership, public speaking and personal finance. I spend a lot of time volunteering at church. Over the last 10 years, I have had the privilege to mentor many young people through our Children and Youth Ministries. It still amazes me how meaningful a simple game of basketball or a small word of encouragement can be! I love anything sports, reading, and collecting coffee mugs. Steven Covey says, “Seek to understand, then be understood.” I believe this matters and I seek to live that out at all times when working with others.
I grew up in a lovely but complicated family. Mom and Dad divorced when we were young, but I had the pleasure of growing up with two amazing dads! I’ve witnessed loved ones make some tough life decisions resulting in even tougher situations. Our family experienced what has become too common today: teen pregnancies, drug abuse, emotional instability, homelessness, poverty, and sickness. When I was growing up, I could only see the pain and struggle compared to everyone else’s family. Now, with some years and perspective, I have learned how to celebrate the oddities. Life has a lot of good to enjoy despite the pain and confusion. The Lord really can make a way where there seems to be no way!
Available Capacity: 0
Joe Sir
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
New Richmond, WI
Hello, my name is Joe Sir. I have been working with youth and families for over 25 years. Including working with at risk kids and their parents. I was involved with developing mentorship programs and providing resources for kids and their families with serious needs. We also developed relationships with counseling services for families in need of long term counseling needs. I have also been
involved with addiction programs and working at recovery homes and jails.
Music has been a big part of my life and I started in a band with my brothers at
the age of 14. Music is a great way to connect with people and breakthrough to
common interests. My goal is to find common ground in whatever area I can and build the consumer’s trust and communicate
that they are loved and they have value. I believe my main responsibility on earth is to help people experience the kind of genuine relationships where they know they are truly cared for, important, and deeply loved so that they might experience a personal an d loving God. My heart is to help people feel accepted and heard no matter where they come from or what they have done, to help
them grow and move in the direction o f healing and peace so that they can lead a meaningful life and experience joy through recovery and healing.
Available Capacity: 2
Staci Thommes
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Reeve, WI
My name is Staci and I live in rural Wisconsin with my husband of over 30 years. We have two adult children and a son-in-law. I’ve lived a life of helping others, both professionally and through volunteer activities. As a professional, I spent over 20 years as a dental hygienist and college educator, then became a credentialed pastor, and years later, added holistic health coach to my qualifications. In my volunteer roles, I was very involved in short-term missions traveling internationally for a number of years with a heart for helping where I could with those sometimes unable to help themselves. I then transitioned to more local efforts, spending time in prisons as a listening ear and working to guide incarcerated youth and women to a different life when they
were released and free.I have had my own struggles with different kinds of
freedom, specifically freedom from past emotional trauma, physical ailments, and a parent’s alcoholism and mental health disorders. Breaking the chains each of those burdens had on me, along with my educational/professional development and life experiences, has prepared me to assist others searching for a new path and freedom from whatever is holding them back. I enjoy coming alongside individuals, hearing their story, establishing relationships, and supporting them in their journey, whether it be through direct help in creating new habits or anecdotally through my past experiences.
Available Capacity: 0
Amber Hedin
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Amery, WI
My name is Amber Hedin. I am a paraprofessional with Out of the Wilderness. I have specialized training from the Oklahoma DHS from my time working with at-risk youth; mostly in the area of trauma and cultural diversity. I also used to work with mental health and substance abuse recovery participants in a program called Bridge to Life at the Oklahoma homeless shelter. I supervised their culinary training, team building and time management skills. Additionally, I was able to not only do some motivational speaking for the group but got to build close relationships with some recovery participants, which have maintained an uplifting and encouraging influence for decades.
Having had a childhood in a single parent household who suffered through emotional and physical abuse, as well as an absent parent, I understand the mental health struggles of overcoming trauma. I spent many years in counseling, using psychotherapy techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and a spiritual-led approach.
Available Capacity: 0
Ed Chew
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Reeve, WI
Hello, my name is Ed Chew and I grew up I n rural Indiana. I have worked as a Peace Corps volunteer, a carpenter, a horse shoer, a snow-maker, an electric guitar effects builder, and high school math teacher. I love to play music and am involved with all aspects of the music program at my church. What I have learned through being trained and training others for these roles is that all of us, no matter who we are or how old we are, need help. I have also seen that growth and learning are possible for anyone who has decided that they want to grow and learn and willing to put in the effort.
Trying to play sports as a young person, I realized that I had to practice a lot more than other kids in order to gain the same skill level. As an adult, I realize the parallel in all areas of life, I have seen how challenges like mental illness, addiction, childhood abuses, and the unexpected death of young friends has affected me and my family members and I have watched people move through them. Helping people work through their own challenges toward their goals is what l aspire to do.
Available Capacity: 0
Abbie Johnson
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Spooner, WI
Hello, my name is Abbie Johnson and I am from the Spooner area where I live with my husband and 4 kids. My life experiences are absolutely what drew me to this position. My work history includes being a paraprofessional at the high school, middle school, and elementary levels. I have run a daycare, and taught Sunday school. My personal experiences are just as varied. I grew up in an extremely loving home but also dealt with divorce, mental health, and extreme addiction issues within my family and friends. My path to where I am now has been long but the experience and outlook I have gained I wouldn’t trade for anything.
The plethora of experiences in my life has brought me to the simple realization that everyone needs help sometimes. Whether it be family, friends, or complete strangers, everyone deserves the chance to get on the right path and I truly enjoy doing whatever I can to assist people in that.
Available Capacity: 0
Leilani Christopherson
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Amery, WI
I live in Amery, WI with my husband and two teenagers. I am an entrepreneur, teacher, and youth director in my church. I have been a homeschool teacher for six years and also teach adult online bible studies. I am excited to partner with individuals to help identify life’s obstacles, working together towards growth. I promote authenticity, freeing people to speak their minds and be themselves. I love helping people reach their potential and embrace their unique talents and abilities. I enjoy listening, and understanding each person’s story, and where they come from. This allows me to provide support and address specific needs, developing strategies to work toward solutions to help individuals fulfill their purpose in life.
I grew up in a very religious home without much love, experiencing abandonment and rejection from a young age. These experiences and so many others have given me an understanding of the difficulties of childhood trauma and abuse. I spent many years in counseling and my faith strengthened me to come out of severe depression as an adolescent. One thing I believe whole-heartedly is that no matter what obstacles we’ve experienced, we can grow. I am passionate about supporting individuals in their journey towards using the obstacles in their lives to become strong and find joy and peace.
Current Capacity: 3
Ryan Esparza
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Osceola, WI
Hi, I’m Ryan, I’m a CCS Provider, owner and beekeeper of Apple Grove Apiary, father, husband, brother, and Christ believer. I’m also a veteran who spent ten years in the United States Air Force from 2006-2016 as an aerospace maintenance crew chief on C-17 cargo planes. I enjoy being outside even if it means walking through my yard and watching nature around me. With that I like working with my hands, building beekeeping equipment, taking things apart with my son, and woodworking.
My passion for joining Out of the Wilderness is to provide a veterans mindset to other veterans in need, I know first hand the difficulty talking to someone about military hardships when the other person hasn’t spent time in the military. With that said my highest mission is to listen, empower, and show that they are not alone.
Available Capacity: 2
Ean McClelland
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
New Richmond, WI
I live in New Richmond, WI with my wife and daughter. I am a former meth addict and have been clean since 12/6/2012. The Lord completely changed my life and since I have been clean I have been doing my part to see others seek out and walk the path of recovery. Along with being a pastor I am also the Director of Recovery at our church in Minneapolis.
I believe I am will be an asset to the CCS program because of my lived experience and passion to come alongside others who are struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. I also have experience working with youth and creating camps for kids with special needs. For the past 5 years I have also regularly worked with people who struggle with different mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, OCD, and bi-polar disorder. As a result of these experiences I have many successful experiences working and volunteering at faith based treatment centers and helping people of all ages move forward with their lives from past traumas and addictions to recovery and freedom.
Available Capacity: 2
Doug Schubert
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Hudson, WI
I retired from Securian Financial after holding many leadership roles during those years, most of them involving managing people and teams in pursuit of building better products and services for Securian’s retirement clients. Professional skills of note included problem solving, leading and coaching project teams and establishing relationships with business partners. I enjoy hunting, fishing, sporting events, woodworking and socializing with friends and family. Also a very active volunteer in the Hudson community: President of the Rotary Club, Food Bank volunteer and mentor for Big Brothers/ Big Sisters in addition to Out of the Wilderness.
I lost my father to cancer in 1993 and quickly realized how much a male role model had meant to me and how much he still needed one as an adult. I have been a role model to my son and his group of friends and seek out opportunities to spend time with older men I consider mentors. I believe deeply in giving back and serving others and consider it an honor and privilege to spend time with individuals who need help and would benefit from spending time with somebody who sees them as worthy and valuable in spite of their afflictions.
Available Capacity: 2
Steve Grimm
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Hinkley, MN
My name is Steve Grimm and I am a retired physician education, health education, and driver’s education teacher. I taught for 34 years in the Hinckley-Finlayson School District in Hinckley, MN. I also coached a variety of sports during those years, including junior high football, track, boys and girls basketball, and most recently, was the head boys and girls golf coach. I enjoy working with youth of all ages and abilities. I received my masters in education degree from the University of Minnesota, with a concentration in adapted physical education, which enabled me to teach kids with mental and physical disorders.
I love the outdoors and look forward to every season which brings new adventures and experiences. I love hunting and hiking in the fall, as well as watching football games.
In the winter, I love to cross country ski, snow shoe, and occasionally ice fish, if they are biting. In the spring and summer months I love to play golf, pickle ball, and on the lake fishing.
I love to stay active with my wife, who thankfully likes the same activities that I do. I also have two children, who are both married, and two grandsons. I’m looking forward to this new chapter in retirement and being a positive influence to those who may need some extra encouragement.
Available Capacity: 1
Jennifer Reed
Bachelors
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Osceola, WI
Hello, my name is Jen Reed. I grew up in Polk County and currently live in Dresser, WI. As a Social Worker for over 25 years in my community, I have seen how mental health, addiction, trauma, financial barriers can affect every facet of one’s life.
My purpose is to help others see their worth and believe in it. I believe that everyone has goodness inside of them and it is a matter of letting the light shine greater than the things that hold you back. Growing up in Polk County, I thought working hard, never letting anyone get too close and putting on a smile was the definition of tough. I was divorced over a decade ago and have had to learn many new skills. I learned to be vulnerable, talk about my feelings and ask for help. Now that is tough! I give myself grace and have learned the act of self-forgiveness. My list of coping skills is long and ever changing
Available Capacity: 3
Stephanie Steffen
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Osceola, WI
I join Out of the Wilderness with a holistic perspective and background in Occupational Therapy. I help individuals across the lifespan who are experiencing physical and cognitive changes, illnesses or various abilities; providing support through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. I help in adapting the environment (school, home, occupational setting) to increase independence, promote health, and prevent further injury/decline. Healthy lifestyles and diet is a passion of mine and helping those who need diet changes, special diet/meal planning support, and cooking skills. I also serve those who want spiritual support or mentoring, helping to bring purpose and direction in one’s journey.
I love being in nature and enjoy kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, fishing, boating, camping, biking, and anything outdoors. You can learn a lot about yourself and others in the quiet of nature, it is a space you can revive yourself and I enjoy sharing the beauty of nature with others. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, hiking, cooking, reading, finding unique coffee shops, gardening and spending time with my family and friends.
Available Capacity: 0
Mark Smith
Para
ISDE, Wellness, Psycho-ed service arrays
Mora, MN
I am a former physical education teacher in the Forest Lake public school system. My philosophy is to teach students lifelong enjoyment through activity and the health and wellness components will follow. My family and I enjoy many outdoor activities. We paddle lakes and rivers in canoes or kayaks and nearly every year spend some time in the BWCA fishing. I grew up loving bicycles and now love to ride mountain bikes on single track trails and road bikes on weekend adventures. Our two adult children ( boy and girl ) also enjoy an active healthy lifestyle.
I feel that my experience teaching and working with individuals who have experienced physical, mental, and emotional issues can offer support and assist clients to achieve more positive and independent functioning.
Available Capacity: 0
Chad Kudlo
Para
ISDE service array
Osceola, WI
I was born in Lorain, Ohio and had a very unique childhood. My parents were divorced when I was two, my mom moved away from the area and I was left to live with my dad until I was about nine years old. As a child we moved around quite a bit in the surrounding towns of Lorain. During that time I saw a lot of drug and alcohol use and domestic abuse within the household. My father passed away from a drug overdose at the young age of 35. My dad’s brother and wife took me into their home around the age of nine. They were a huge help in directing me onto the right path.
I have a passion to see people succeed. I really enjoy getting to know others and being there for them. I love coming alongside people and seeing them overcome their situations and achieve success! It is great to see the way CCS works with the consumer, allowing them to write this new chapter in their lives. We are there to help them stay on track and provide guidance during this time in their lives. That gives me the goosebumps! I look forward to the opportunity of working with you and your consumers!
Available Capacity: 2
Mike Deems
Business Operations Manager
I am a man of God, a husband, a father of four kids between 12 and 18 years, an avid outdoorsman and woodworker, and a student of life. Four years ago, I retired from the US Army following a 26-year, venerated career of service to my country in both peacetime and war. Following my retirement, my family and I relocated to western Wisconsin where I initially became a CCS/CPS service provider. I took that experience and began directing business operations for Out of The Wilderness- which I have been doing for almost two years. I am very active in leading young men and women (including my own children) in my church’s highschool youth group, I serve on the board of directors as an advisory board member for a homeschool cooperative, and a sitting member for a Christian missions group in Mexico for whom I lead a team to Mexico each year in support of that mission. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from North Georgia College, a Masters Degree in Project Management from St. Mary’s University, a degree from the Army’s Command and General Staff College, and myriad certificates and certifications from the Department of Defense and its entities. I enjoy complex problem solving, organizational structuring, and process improvement… as well as reading historical fiction, learning new things, and bringing my life’s experiences, education, and gifts to bear in anything that I do.