Network Professionals
Welcome to our Professional Resources page! While Google offers a ton of information, it can often feel overwhelming, especially when seeking services such as Estate Planning Attorneys, Financial Planners, Realtors, Mortgage Advisors, Contractors, and other business professionals crucial for making important life decisions.
In our experience, we often found ourselves relying on referrals from casual conversations when discussing the challenges we faced. Due to time constraints, we didn’t always have the opportunity to thoroughly vet or interview multiple professionals, leading us to make decisions reactively rather than proactively.
Our goal is to alleviate the stress and uncertainty associated with finding reliable professionals by personally vetting a selection of business experts. We aim to provide you with options and peace of mind knowing that these professionals have been carefully chosen based on criteria such as experience, compassion, patience, and expertise in working with families with dependents who have disabilities. *The professionals listed on the MCC website have no legal or other obligation to MCC and visa versa. They are provided as a courtesy by MCC and only a recommendation to anyone who visits our website.
If you’ve had a positive experience with a professional in any of these fields, we encourage you to reach out to us. By sharing your recommendations, you’ll help us expand our portfolio and better serve our community. Together, let’s build a network of trusted professionals dedicated to assisting families like yours.
Beyond Nonprofit and Professional Resources, Wisconsin provides various services for individuals with disabilities. Our objective is to streamline access to these additional resources for families by consolidating them in one place. If you are aware of other service opportunities, please inform us, and if we deem them beneficial, we will gladly include them on our website.
Attorneys
Dera Johnsen-Tracy
(Estate Planning Attorney – Madison)
Horn & Johnsen SC in Madison, Wisconsin.
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Julie Short
(Estate Planning Attorney – Madison)
Julie A. Short assists families to plan and care for each other.
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She began her 30-year plus estate planning, elder law, and special needs career working alongside her father in Fort Atkinson. Julie’s career then led her to non-profit advocacy and services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. She was the Legal Director for the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups and the Director of the Aging and Disability legal Services with Easter Seals before returning to a private practice.
Julie prides herself in working with individuals and families no matter what challenges they face. She brings compassion and caring to every plan in addition to her expertise. She sees planning as a holistic process and her clients are supported as much and as long as they need.
Julie is well networked within the special needs and elder law community and honored to be involved with Morgan’s Caring Connection. Her goal is to find creative, client-centered solutions for effective planning, and when applicable, problem solving. If you need a zealous advocate, she is there for you. If she can’t assist you, she will do all she can to find someone who can, as throughout her career she has established many positive relationships with professional colleagues, who like her, aim for excellent client service and results.
Julie currently serves on an Advisory /Committee for Wispact Inc., a Pooled and Community Special Needs Trust. She is the treasurer of the Dane County Pro Bono Trust fund, and she is a volunteer Mediator with the Dane County Bar Association Case Mediation Program. In addition to the Wisconsin State Bar Association and Dane County Bar Association, Julie is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (including the State Chapter), and the Madison Estate Counsel.
Julie resides in Fitchburg with her partner, Jeffrey Gaie. Together they are blessed with four daughters, Jeffrey’s two teen daughters and Julie’s two young adult daughters who keep them busy and grateful for the blessings of family.
Kristi Lemanski
(Estate Planning Attorney – Mt. Horeb/Spring Green)
Kristi is an attorney at Wilkinson Law Group, LLC, and is based out of the firm’s Mt. Horeb office.
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Geoff Lorenz
(Estate Planning Attorney – Lodi)
Geoff has been a private practice attorney for 10 years, proudly serving the same community that he grew up in.
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Nicole Swails
(Estate Planning Attorney – Madison)
Nicole is an estate planning attorney with Wayne Law S.C. in Madison, Wisconsin, where she helps individuals and families craft estate plans as unique as their lives and loved ones.
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With a warm, down-to-earth approach, Nicole makes what can feel like an overwhelming process simple, personal, and empowering.
Before joining Wayne Law, she founded and ran her own estate planning firm, where she was known for guiding clients with empathy, clarity, and a deep respect for the stories behind every plan.
Nicole is honored to be part of Morgan’s Caring Connection, a mission that holds deep personal meaning and reflects her own commitment to helping families feel cared for, even in life’s most challenging moments.
When she’s not working with clients, Nicole enjoys reading a good book, kayaking on the lakes in Minocqua, and relaxing with her husband, dog, and three cats.
Sumeeta Krishnaney
(Estate Planning Attorney – Milwaukee/Madison)
Sumeeta Krishnaney is a member of the Trusts and Estates Section.
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Peter Craft
(Guardianship Attorney – Appleton)
Peter has experience representing individuals under guardianship as their attorney as well as their Guardian ad Litem.
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In his role as Guardian ad Litem, Peter advocates for the best interests of the individual before the court.
Peter began his career as a criminal defense attorney where he spent thousands of hours in court arguing on behalf of his clients. Applying this experience to Guardianship cases allows Peter to have a comprehensive understanding of the differing perspectives present in all Guardianship cases along with his experience arguing before a Judge and Jury.
Peter was born and raised in Seymour, Wisconsin. Peter received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay where he studied History. He then received his Juris Doctorate degree from Marquette University in 2008. Peter now resides in the Fox Valley with his wife Kari and their two children.
Abigail Plankey
(Estate Planning Attorney – Appleton)
Attorney Abigail J. Plankey is an associate at Hooper Law Office, LLC. Abigail attended St. Norbert College (SNC) for undergrad and Marquette University Law School (MULS) for law school.
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She was in the first class to graduate SNC’s 3+3 law program with MULS. Abigail is from the Fox Valley and has now returned to serve her community through education and comprehensive planning.
Abigail focuses on Estate Planning, Long-Term Care Planning, and has a focus on Special Needs Planning. She is a member of WealthCounsel, ElderCounsel, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), WINAELA (Wisconsin Chapter), the Wisconsin Council of Estate Planning Attorneys, and the Elder Law and Special Needs Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin.
Outside of the office, Abigail enjoys gardening, reading, going up north, and spending time with her husband, Jacob, and their son, Theodore.
Anna Loess
(Elder Law, Family Law, Contested Guardianship Attorney – Madison)
Anna is a partner with DeWitt LLP and is based out of DeWitt’s Madison office.
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She focuses her practice in the areas of guardianships/elder law litigation matters, probate and trust administration and litigation matters, and family law matters. She brings twenty-five years of experience to her cases and is licensed in Wisconsin and Illinois. She guides families through the guardianship and protective placement process, both in contested and in uncontested matters. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two teenagers, and two questionably behaved dogs, as well as delving into Madison’s rich local music scene.
Cassin Wolfe
(Financial Advisor – Madison)
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Stephanie Forrester
(Financial Advisor – Madison)
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She provides comprehensive wealth management services to her clients including guidance on financial planning, budgeting, retirement, and how to navigate unforeseen life transitions. She specializes in helping families and individuals with disabilities and special needs and enjoys taking complex situations and breaking them down into solvable problems for her clients. Previously, she worked as an Associate Advisor at Wipfli Financial Advisors, where she assisted in the servicing of high net worth individuals and families.
In addition to her work in the industry, Stephanie is very active in her community, previously serving as a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor. Originally from Caledonia, MN, Stephanie now resides in Madison, WI and enjoys camping, reading, and spending time with friends and family in her spare time.
“Growing up in a large family, I understood at an early age the value of saving and budgeting. Life can be unpredictable, and helping people through times of great turmoil and change and empowering them with information and guidance is why I do what I do.”
Ryan McGuire
(Financial Advisor – Madison)
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As a big brother to a wonderful young lady with special needs, Ryan is inspired to help individuals live their most independent and best lives. Ryan advises families like his own across the United States on most areas related to financial and resource planning. Ryan was appointed in 2024 by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers to the Board for Persons with Developmental Disabilities and the College Savings Plan Board for the state. Ryan previously spent six years as a volunteer board member for Wispact. Outside of work, Ryan serves as a wrestling referee and enjoys performing music. Ryan resides in the Madison area with his wife and two daughters.
Andrew Charles
(Financial Advisor – Madison)
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Beyond numbers and charts, I enjoy creating art, fishing for muskie, biking, rollerblading, and an array of other outdoor activities. I hope to learn your wants, needs, desires – as well as your interests & hobbies – to help ensure your family is secure, with a gameplan to navigate any situation.
Melisssa Burback
(Wealth Management Advisor – Waukesha)
Missy was raised in Muskego, and went to college in Louisiana, and returned home to be close to her family and later marry her high school sweetie, Jared.
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They have 2 beautiful daughters Mikayla 16 and Avry 10.
Missy has been a financial advisor for over 20 years with Northwestern Mutual. Missy has been a special needs mom for 16 years. Her angel Mikayla has brought the most amazing new opportunities into her life including the passion and opportunity to serve families like hers through a practice with a niche focus on special needs financial planning. Missy works with families like hers in over 30 states and trains other financial advisors around the country on how to plan for the unique needs of a lifelong dependent. Throughout her entire career impacting families and delivering a holistic financial plan is what it has been all about.
Missy sits on the Board of Best Buddies, and the Parent advisory board for the Muskego School district additionally she serves as the DFEL for the school district. Missy is very active volunteer and fundraiser at Children’s Wisconsin, she has developed a neurosciences fund at Children’s hospital that is funded annual with a golf outing she hosts, holds an annual holiday toy drive, and is an active therapy dog team visiting family’s inpatient. Making an impact in the community, her practice, and her family is the driving motivator every day for Missy.
Jara Rios-Rodriguez
(Tax Services/Financial Advisor – Madison)
Jara Rios Rodriguez, PhD is a native Spanish speaker, certified grief counselor, and ordained chaplain who brings heart and strategy to everything she does.
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Carrie Waters-Schmidt
(Financial Advisor – Madison)
Carrie Waters Schmidt and her team at Equanimity Wealth Planning and Investing have been working with Special Needs families,
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Sometimes our day-to-day lives can require all our energy, making it hard to see past the everyday tasks and look to the future. But, it doesn’t have to be this way.
Carrie has been the board President of YogAutismTM, Inc, a non-profit that focuses on working with autistic individuals to down regulate their nervous system, since 2018, is familiar with the state’s CLTS and IRIS systems, is knowledgeable in the various Social Security benefits, and has presented on the 529ABLE plan at various different conferences. She works comprehensively with clients by looking at the broad picture that includes evaluating taxes now and in the future, employer benefits, insurances, investments, and current estate plans. Their approach to planning will help you and your family:
- Determine the available amount for your Special Needs heir should you pass away
- Ensure enough assets are available for their care and longevity while making sure you will be adequately provided for
- Simulate the future impact of taxation on saved assets based on how an asset is owned, how it’s invested, and how it’s saved
- Balance state and federal aid eligibility with earned income and saved assets
- Simulate the flow of assets at your death and determining if changes need to be made to your estate plan
Visit their website at www.EquanimityWealth.com for free financial resources or to book an appointment.
Jared Nelson
(Insurance/Financial/Estate Planning Solutions – Mt. Horeb, Spring Green & Baraboo)
Jared Nelson has 28 years of experience in the financial services and insurance industry.
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He provides life insurance, financial, and estate planning solutions, along with home, auto, business, and farm insurance for individuals and businesses. Jared is a six-time qualifying member of the Million Dollar Round Table, including one Court of the Table qualification and is consistently recognized by Rural Mutual Insurance as a Top Performer in Wisconsin in both financial services and property casualty insurance sales. Raised on a dairy farm in Jackson County, Wisconsin, Jared developed a strong appreciation for agriculture and rural communities at an early age. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Jared is deeply committed to serving his community as a volunteer firefighter and ambulance driver with the Mt. Horeb Fire Department. He lives in Mt. Horeb with his wife and their three daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
Carrie Davies
(Medicare/Medicaid/SSI/SDI – Cottage Grove)
Carrie is a licensed health and life insurance agent and Co-Owner of Prairie Grove Insurance in Cottage Grove, WI.
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She has over a decade of experience helping people understand Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefits. At Prairie Grove Insurance, Carrie and her team take an educational approach, walking clients through their options so they can make the decision that’s truly best for them.
She knows that insurance and government programs can feel overwhelming, especially for those trying to sort through Medicare rules, Medicaid eligibility, or the differences between SSI and SSDI. Carrie’s passion is breaking things down in a way that’s clear, simple, and practical, so no one feels lost in the process.
Carrie lives in Cottage Grove with her husband, their two sons and the family dog. When she’s not meeting with clients, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and staying active in her community.
Jason Stendalen, CIC
(Property & Casualty and Life Insurance Independent Broker – Madison)
Jason has been in the insurance industry since 2004.
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Having worked in various industries before finding a passion helping others in the insurance industry…he brings a unique perspective to helping his clients understand risk. He obtained his Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation in 2015 and takes an education-based approach to helping his clients. Jason feels that many people look at insurance as a commodity- looking for the best price while sacrificing important coverage. He approaches things in a consultative manner making sure to discover the important and pertinent coverage before working with various providers to find the most competitive pricing. He really listens, getting to know and understand the challenges and issues his clients face. He does most of his business by referral and looks to be a partner/advisor to his many clients. Jason works closely with national REIA (Real Estate Investors Association) and travels statewide helping to insure them and their properties. Jason attended DeVry University for a degree in Electronics, has lived in Chicago, New York, and many locations around the Midwest. He lives in Verona with his wife Abby and daughter Delaney. Jason and his wife own five businesses between he two of them.
Dan Piazza
(Property & Casualty and Life Insurance American Family – Madison)
Dan brings more than 30 years of insurance and business ownership experience
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to his work as an American Family Insurance Agent. He holds degrees in Risk Management and Finance from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Dan’s agency is built on honesty, integrity, and a commitment to always act in the best interests of clients. Life insurance is a central focus of his practice, and Dan and his team are passionate about helping protect families. They have earned American Family Life Insurance Company (AFLIC) honor status for 15 consecutive years.
Employing a consultative sales approach, Dan and his team assemble customized life insurance plans tailored to each client’s unique needs—including families with special needs. Their goal is to provide guidance and support so every family can feel confident about their future.
A lifelong resident of the Madison area, Dan enjoys spending time outdoors with his family and cheering on local sports teams. He is also active in several community organizations, including the Home Buyers Round Table of Dane County and the Knights of Columbus.
Katie Myers
(Insurance: Property & Life – Janesville)
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We help our customers with home, auto, business, life and disability insurance as well as financial planning services. Personally, I spent 7 years prior to my insurance career working with adults and children of differing abilities in group homes, foster care and school settings. I have a deep understanding of the challenges this community faces with a passion to help. I believe every person should be empowered to make all decisions they are capable of making. My team and I would love to partner with you to make sure your family is fully protected.
Heather Holy
(Advance Funeral Planning Consultant and Aftercare Specialist – Madison)
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After high school, she moved to the Lake Wisconsin area and now resides in Poynette with her son Jackson, a freshman in Lodi. Summers are spent enjoying life by the lake, while in the winter, Heather prefers to travel to warmer destinations.
Ten years ago, Heather was drawn to the funeral service industry when an opportunity presented itself, inspired by the profound impact her family’s funeral director in Mt. Horeb had on her during a difficult time. This experience sparked a desire to learn more and help others during similarly challenging moments.
Erin Johansen
(Daily Money Manager)
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I often works with seniors, but clients can also include people with disabilities, busy professionals and high net-worth individuals – essentially, anyone who no longer wants to handle their day-to-day household financial tasks alone. Erin is a member of the American Association of Daily Money Managers.
I have decades of business experience, including in the insurance and real estate industries, as well as expertise in communications, public relations and journalism. I’m determined, curious, and a strong communicator, all qualities that serve my clients. In my role as a Daily Money Manager, I often works as part of a client’s professional care team and with family members. While paying bills and helping with daily finances, I watch for and can investigate charges that appear fraudulent or inaccurate. I’m patient and empathetic and brings a warm sense of humor to her work. Daily financial tasks can quickly become overwhelming, and I want to help ease that stress for my clients.
In my free time, I like to read, travel, see live music and am part of the volunteer team that puts on the annual Sugar Maple Music Festival in Madison.
Justina Peters
(Relationship Banker)
With over 13 years of experience, I am a Relationship Banker at Old National Bank specializing in lending and personalized financial solutions.
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As a trusted banker, I focus on building long-term client relationships and helping individuals and their families achieve their financial goals through knowledgeable, reliable service.
Ashley Malinowski
(Realtor)
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I am a firm believer in the ‘golden rule’ of treating others the way I would want to be treated. No matter the circumstances you may be facing that have brought you here, I look forward to creating a customized game plan to achieve the goals you have in mind and getting your questions answered based on experience, facts, and local market data. (Restaino)
Ali Kane
(Realtor)
I’m Ali Kane—known as AliKane in both personal and professional circles—and I’ve been a Realtor with Stark Company Realtors since 2012.
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I began my real estate career after graduating from UW-Madison with a degree in Entomology from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, working alongside my mother, JoAnn, to help individuals and families find their dream homes across South Central Wisconsin.
I live on the East side of Madison with my husband and our two dogs. Outside of real estate, I’ve been passionate about ultimate frisbee since 2007 and proudly serve as the Official Realtor for the Madison Radicals. For over 12 years, I’ve also been actively involved with Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, advocating for affordable housing and building stronger communities.
Every day, whether I’m guiding clients, supporting community initiatives, or enjoying a frisbee game, I’m driven by purpose and the commitment to make a positive impact.
Lee Kampa
(Mortgage Advisor)
True North Team powered by Nations Lending.
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Kayla Goebel
(Mortgage Advisor)
With a strong background in rural lending and a passion for helping people reach their goals, I work alongside clients to find personalized financial solutions that fit both their short and long term goals.
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I am a Mortgage Advisor with Compeer Financial who specializes in rural homes, land purchases, construction and unique property lending. I enjoy building lasting relationships with clients, real estate professional and community partners. Whether it’s purchasing a first home, refinancing or seeking specific financial needs, my goal is to provide clarity, support and flexibility every step of the way. I am also involved with the Realtors Association of Southcentral Wisconsin, serve as EMS captain for my local EMS/Fire non-profit organization, and serve on variety of local community organizations.
Outside of work I am an EMS volunteer and enjoy spending time in the outdoors with my family in Southwest Wisconsin. Having grown up, living and working in the same community, I deeply believe in the importance of giving back and staying actively involved.
Rob Miller
(Mortgage Advisor)
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in life, and Rob and his team are dedicated to making it as smooth and enjoyable as possible from start to finish.
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With over 20 years of experience as a Branch Manager and Senior Loan Officer at ProVisor, Inc., Rob has been helping clients navigate the mortgage process with ease. Based in South Central Wisconsin, Rob works with clients across the Midwest and several other states, focusing on making the loan process simple, understandable, and as stress-free as possible.
Education is a big part of Rob’s approach. He believes that when buyers are well-informed, they feel more confident and prepared. Rob takes the time to walk through each step, ensuring his clients understand their options and feel comfortable throughout the process. He’s all about clear communication and treating each situation individually. Since everything is handled locally in Wisconsin, decisions are made quickly, and closings happen on time.
Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in life, and Rob and his team are here to make sure it goes smoothly, from start to finish.
Becky Blair
(Residential & Commercial Construction)
CLTS Provider
As VP of Westring Construction in Madison, WI, I bring 20 years of experience in the construction industry, with a focus on residential remodeling and historical restoration.
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Kyle Davies
(Handyman Services)
CLTS Provider
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As the General Manger of one of Madison’s longest standing remodeling companies, W.E. Davies & Sons Remodeling, Kyle and his brother Tyler also oversee their handyman divison. W.E. Davies & Sons Handyman Services, offers help and assistance to those in need of smaller repairs and fixes. Whether it be cleaning your gutters out before winter, unveiling patio furniture in the spring/summer months, or installing grab bars and handrails for safety, they truly want to help homeowners stay in their home hassle free.
Wynn Davies
(Residential Remodeling)
CLTS Provider
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His mission is not only to transform homes, but also to educate the public on how to hire contractors wisely. With 48 years of experience under our belt, our mission at W. E. Davies & Sons Remodeling is to deliver a top-notch remodeling experience while ensuring transparency, quality, and client satisfaction every step of the way.
As a member of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) for over 30 years, past president of our local chapter, and chairperson of the ethics committee, we are committed to educating the public and firmly believe that an informed client is the cornerstone of a successful project.
When I’m not immersed in the world of remodeling, you’ll often find me embracing my passion for triathlons. As an avid triathlete, I thrive on pushing my limits, both physically and mentally, and relish the exhilarating rush of crossing the finish line. The discipline, resilience, and focus cultivated through triathlon training translate seamlessly into my approach to work, driving me to continually strive for excellence.
Stephen Lange
(Residential Painter)
Founded in 2020, Lange’s is a family-owned company led by brothers Bernie and Stephen, who grew up on the west side of Madison.
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Their shared upbringing and strong ties to the community have shaped the company’s values and mission.
Experience “The Lange’s Way.” At Lange’s Painting, our mission is to simplify the lives of our clients by delivering superior quality painting services that combine performance with value. We strive to establish lasting relationships with our customers by exceeding their expectations and gaining their trust through exceptional communication and ethical standards. We are dedicated to offering meticulous attention to detail and quality control, ensuring that we enhance the look and feel of every project Lange’s Painting completes.
We are a full service painting contractor. Our list of services include: Painting, staining, trim painting, brick painting, patio sealing, clear coating, garage epoxy, drywall repair, wallpaper removal & installation, cabinet refinishing, and linear footage coatings in our prefinishing shop.
When we are not painting you can find us: Spending time with our family, friends and the golf course.
Christine Savides
(Advocacy & Respite)
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Brandon Tracy
(Martial Arts & Advocacy)
Our Mission: Superhero Martial Arts promotes Self-Empowerment & Life Skills for individuals with special needs through an adaptive martial arts program.
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Our students range in age from 4 to adults. We enjoy working with various ability levels. Many of our students benefit from training in an adaptive martial arts program. Instructors build and modify each student’s curriculum to accommodate student and parent goals. We can accommodate the special needs of any student.
Equability
(Adaptive Clothing)
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Ariel Schneider
(Austism Therapy)
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Sam Garlock
(Autism Therapy)
Samantha Garlock is a co-founder of FamilyPath Autism Services, a leading organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and their families.
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With over 25 years of dedicated experience in the autism field, Sam has become a trusted expert and advocate for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
With an undergraduate degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Sam has spent over 25 years working in various roles within the autism field. Her extensive experience includes positions such as behavior technician, Senior Therapist/Program Manager, and Intake Director where she exercised her skills in managing therapy teams, collaborating effectively with external agencies and advocating for the needs of those on the spectrum.
Sam has been driven by a passion to create a company that not only excels in its work but also prioritizes the well-being and satisfaction of its employees.
Pam Beron
(Certified Disability Life Quality Coach)
Pam is the founder of Highest Potential Pathways, an avid reader, enjoys the outdoors, and puts a whole lot of creamer into her morning coffee. She’s the lone female in the house with a husband, two little boys, and their dog, Ranger.
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Carrie Weihert
(Personal In-Home Care)
Carrie Weihert, RN, is the Director of Nursing at Smart Choice Personal Care Inc. and a board member of the Wisconsin Personal Services Association (WPSA).
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With over a decade of experience managing personal care services across 12 counties in southeastern and central Wisconsin, Carrie is dedicated to advocating for patients and collaborating with state and county programs to deliver safe, effective care at home. She specializes in assessment, staff training, and case management for individuals of all ages with complex needs. Carrie is passionate about building relationships that strengthen personal care services and enhance the quality of life for those she serves.
Elizabeth Brockman
(Board Certified Behavior Analyst)
Elizabeth Brockman is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and the founder of Brighter Behaviors,
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a virtual parent training and support company dedicated to empowering families of children with autism and developmental needs across Wisconsin. With a strong clinical foundation and a passion for caregiver education and collaboration, Elizabeth brings a decade of experience in applied behavior analysis (ABA), early intervention, and family-centered care.
Elizabeth holds a Master of Science degree in Psychology specializing in behavior and has worked in a variety of roles supporting neurodiverse individuals in homes, schools, centers and community settings. Through Brighter Behaviors, she offers accessible, individualized parent coaching sessions, educational resources, and behavior support rooted in evidence-based practices.
Her professional focus includes:
- Virtual ABA-based parent coaching
- Toilet training and daily living skill development
- Challenging behavior prevention and intervention
- Enhancing communication (vocal, AAC, sign)
- Navigating autism diagnoses and ABA waitlists
- Supporting families during service transitions
- Creating behavior strategies tailored to the unique needs of each child and family
Whether she’s guiding parents through new behavior strategies or helping caregivers build confidence in their roles, Elizabeth is driven by the belief that every family deserves tools, understanding, and support tailored just for them.
Julia Hanlon
(VP Senior Personal Trust Officer)
Julia Hanlon is the supervisor of the Trust Unit (Trustee & Estate Administration | Lake Ridge Bank| Lake Ridge Bank) of Lake Ridge Bank’s Wealth Management Department.
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In her role as Vice President Senior Personal Trust Officer, she oversees a group of qualified and dedicated trust officers who serve in a variety of fiduciary roles, including trustee of special needs trusts. Before joining Lake Ridge Bank in 2023, Julia practiced as an estate planning attorney for several years and learned firsthand the importance of drafting a solid estate plan for all families, and particularly for families who required planning for a special needs dependent(s). Now, Julia has the opportunity to oversee a team that ensures that those plans and wishes are carried out. She knows that all clients have different financial, personal, and familial backgrounds, goals, and concerns and deserve to be treated as such. Julia is passionate about her own family (she is happily married with one son, three cats, and one dog) and treats her clients with the same dedication and attention.
Angela Laufenberg
(Non-profit Mental Health Clinic | Madison)
Angela Laufenberg is the Executive Director of the Samaritan Counseling Center of Southern Wisconsin, a state-certified nonprofit mental health clinic serving clients across 21 counties.
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Samaritan provides compassionate, inclusive counseling for ages 10 and up with services that address a wide range of mental health needs. In her role, Angela oversees daily operations, staff development, marketing, insurance billing, and strategic growth, with a strong focus on accessibility and holistic care.
Outside of work, Angela is the proud mom of a spirited daughter and a rescue husky who both keep her plenty busy. She enjoys painting, music, and spending time with her husband and family. In her “free” time, she also runs three small businesses, including creating handmade earrings, which she sells at Samaritan and donates a portion of the proceeds back to support its mission.
Lauren Hatchett
(Speech-Language Pathologist | Janesville)
Lauren Hatchett is a seasoned medical speech-language pathologist with over 15 years of clinical expertise. She is co-owner and partner of Marigold Speech & Co.,
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where she provides comprehensive speech, language, and swallowing services for individuals of all ages.
Lauren is a certified endoscopist specializing in Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) and offers outpatient swallow studies to improve access to advanced diagnostics. Her expertise spans the continuum of care, including acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, home health, skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation, and long-term care/memory care. She also brings specialized training in pediatric dysphagia, complementing her passion for early intervention, language development, Autism spectrum disorders, and childhood apraxia of speech.
Dedicated to mentoring, Lauren supports graduate students and clinical fellows in building confidence, competence, and a strong foundation in evidence-based practice. She is actively developing AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) educational materials, bridging research with practical tools for clinicians, patients, and families.
At the core of her work is a driving belief: everyone has the right to a voice and access to communication. Her mission is to elevate patient care, empower clinicians, and expand access to high-quality speech-language pathology services through innovation, mentorship, and community-focused practice.
Sherry Etes
(Photographer | Madison)
Based in Madison, WI, Sherry Etes is a boutique photographer specializing in portrait and commercial imagery that reflects authenticity, connection, and purpose.
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Her passion for photography reignited during the pandemic, when long walks with her camera inspired a renewed appreciation for the beauty in everyday life.
Sherry is honored to volunteer with Morgan’s Caring Connection, using her photography to help share the organization’s mission of supporting families with special needs through her work documenting events and fundraisers. She aims to capture the spirit of community and compassion that defines Morgan’s Caring Connection.
Outside of photography, Sherry enjoys traveling, live music, antiquing, and spending time with her family—including her husband, children, grandchildren, and their beloved pets.














































