DESTINY ASSOCIATES
DESTINY ASSOCIATES
Person First supports start in the way one runs and organizes a company. Although we do have administration, we try to run a more flat organizational structure that allows all voices to be heard and fully supports our DreamLifers. Even though titles are defined by overall responsibility, we consider everybody to be a Destiny Associate. Thus, every person on our team works in the field, including our administrators, to stay connected to your well being and positive life journey.
Our team focuses on your well being, community integration, physical improvements, employment and housing, emergency responsiveness, showing up on time, filling your hours, goal achievement, and your mental health. To that end we have advanced training in customized employment and mental health responsiveness with the Minnesota Crisis Intervention team that supports positive methodologies in crisis management for mental health situations. As we continue to build our team, our pledge is to continue to asses and train for a complete portfolio of supports.
We know who you are. We know your challenges. We know your successes. We know the improvements you desire. We are here to support you on your path to independence, social connection, and self advocacy!
Alissa Nicholson | Destiny Associate | She/Her
Alissa is an empathetic and positive person who values community and understanding. She works as a para-educator at a middle school and has a combined three years of experience doing in-home care and working with adults with multiple disabilities. Alissa is a bibliophile who spends her free time going to restaurants and thrift stores when she doesn’t have her nose buried in a book. She is friendly and open, so you can always look forward to having a good conversation with Alissa!
Almaz Melake | Destiny Associate | She/Her
Almaz has over ten years of experience working in the health and human services field, supporting children, adults, and seniors from a variety of backgrounds. She enjoys building meaningful connections with people, learning about their interests, and discovering the things that bring them joy and purpose. In her free time, Almaz enjoys listening to music, reading, watching movies, spending time outdoors on walks, and meeting friends for coffee. She values kindness, connection, and creating positive experiences for those around her which we are certain you will enoy!
Amanda Creekmur | Program Executive | She/Her
Amanda has been working in the positive supports and IHS field for over a decade having worked in group homes, home and community based services, and in administrative roles as well including Coordinator and Manager. Amanda is well versed in all DHS supports and requirements and has additional training as a part of the Minnesota Crisis Intervention Team. She enjoys helping people achieve their wants and realize their abilities. She has great energy and always looks forward to meeting, connecting, and assisting people each day. Amanda comes to us with a great deal of experience and knowledge in both systems and individualized services. She will make sure you are well guided and have the positive supports you need. She loves animals, coffee, naps, music, and making people smile! Amanda is your go to for everything you need and boy will she be there for you!
Angela Czerlanis | Destiny Associate | She/Her
Angela has an extensive background in home economics, consumer advocacy, and community outreach group education. She is a native Kansan and K-State Wildcat that has called Minnesota home for 20 years. Angela is mom to two young adults and two senior pups. She has an effervescent personality and loves exploring new things. Angela enjoys cooking, crafting, sewing, arts, travel, movies, and especially 80s music. Let’s put on some great tunes while we sing, chat, work, and go on new adventures together. You'll really jam to the car ride karaoke with Angela!
Andrew "Andie" Cecere | Destiny Associate | She/They
Andie is working towards degrees in psychology, sociology and social work looking to improve and understand systems of oppression and marginalized communities. They love to discover and provide resources and community connections for underprivileged groups. Andie is driven and very happy to work in supportin individuals inside and out of their homes. In Andie's spare time they love to garden, cook, and blacksmith. Andie will be a true advocate for you!
Asanti Chinksso | DestinyAssociate | She/Her
Asanti is a college student who’s passionate about helping others and making a positive difference in people’s lives. She loves to listen, support, and be there for others when they need it most. She's pursuing a degree in psychology as she wants to understand how people think and feel in order to heal, grow, and feel more confident. Asanti loves connecting with people and hanging out with family. Her goal is to spread positivity wherever she goes and create a welcoming and caring space. You will surely feel seen and heard with Asanti.
Carl Geyen | Destiny Associate | He/Him
Carl enjoys helping others succeed. He finds fulfillment in teaching and encouraging others. Carl has a passion for planting of any kind as well as working on his home. He's always down to explore new cuisines and connect with people from all walks of life; reflecting upon unique experiences, especially when we all gather together. Carl is looking forward to getting to know you and expand your experiences!
Christian Olson | DreamLifer Services Pilot | He/Him
Christian has been working in various mental health fields since he was 16 years old when he started as a PCA. Christian has risen quickly in our administrative team and is now overseeing our Navigator team. He is super approachable and has additional training in the Minnesota Crisis Intervention team. His favorite part of working in this field is being an advocate for people and helping them live the life they want to live. Christian is an avid Vikings and Timberwolves fan. his favorite activities are camping, attending music festivals, and spending time with his two dogs. Christian can't wait to meet you and your animal companions. You'll have a rollicking good time with Christian!
Cory Flemmons | DreamCareers Navigator | He/Him
Cory is a dedicated professional with 5 years experience in the direct care field. He is ACRE certified in rehabilitation. He has a strong commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families. Cory is leading the effort in our DreamCareers program. As a devoted father and passionate sports enthusiast, Cory understands the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and staying active. He values resilience, empathy, and community. These ideas shape both his personal and professional life. Cory specializes in providing personalized support, advocating for client needs, and fostering positive outcomes. His dedication to making a difference extends beyond his work, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence and kindness in every interaction. You will enjoy Cory's enthusiasm, compassion, and strong sense of purpose supporting your goals!
Grace Greteman | Destiny Associate | She/Her
Grace is a college student working toward becoming an occupational therapist. She finds supporting others to be fulfilling and enriching and is excited to support DreamLifers in meaningful ways. In her free time, Grace enjoys painting, baking, hiking, and photography. Grace is compassionate, fun, and looks forward to meeting you! You'll definitely be in good hands with Grace.
Heather Chouravong | DreamCareers Specialist | She/Her
Heather Chouravong is very conscientious, purposeful, and empathic. She is happy to be a part of such a meaningful organization. Heather has a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Arts, Community Arts, and Psychology, and a Master's Degree in Organizational Management/Human Resources. She has experience in administration, special events, mental health, recruiting, and accounting. Heather is an old soul who loves trivia and pop culture, with an eclectic taste in music. A lifelong learner, Heather spends her free time reading nonfiction, especially books on wellness and the human condition. She is outgoing, genuine, and enjoys engaging in lighthearted conversation and using humor to build deeper connections with others. Heather can't wait to build that connection with you!
Helmut "HP" Peters | Destiny Associate | He/Him
Helmut comes to us with vast experience in the social services support industry. He's worked as a direct support professional, program manager, employment and vocational support professional, and individualized home support staff for the last 17 years. He has also served as designated coordinator. He originally hails from Maryland, but now calls Minnesota home. In his spare time he enjoys movies, music, karaoke, top golf, basketball, soccer, and road trips. You are going to have a lot of fun with HP!
Jacob Sterk | Destiny Associate | He/Him
Jacob has been working in home health for over two years. He is passionate about helping others feel heard and believes open communication is one of the most important parts of providing quality support. Jacob is currently attending Saint John’s University studying Exercise and Health Science with a focus on Physical Therapy. His strengths in leadership and communication help him build strong relationships and encourage others to reach their goals. He is caring, determined, and willing to go the distance for others. Jacob enjoys playing guitar, singing at venues around the Twin Cities, and long-distance running. Jacob will definitely energize your day!
Janette Maendl | DreamLifer Services Navigator | She/Her
Janette brings with her a deep passion for helping others live their best lives and navigate the complexities of the modern world. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Social Justice and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, combining a strong sense of justice with strategic leadership skills. Janette enjoys photography, cooking, exploring and creating art, and constantly seeking opportunities to learn something new, especially those who are passionate about what they are sharing. Her creative spirit and compassionate nature shine through in everything she does. You'll never have a dull moment when Janette is around!
Javada Ringwelski | Destiny Associate| She/Her
Javada is a fine arts student who loves to spread positivity through connection and creativity. When she isn’t studying, she enjoys spending time with others, gaming, reading, traveling, and of course, art. Her goal is to support individuals through kindness, understanding, and positivity; letting you know, you're not alone. Javada will definitely acknowledge and celebrate your presence!
Jill Nolley | Talent Specialist | She/Her
Jill joins our community after an impressive 37-year career in corporate America, where she built extensive expertise in the Human Resources and employment fields. She is deeply passionate about fostering inclusive and positive environments where people feel valued. She truly believes that individuals are the heart of every successful organization. This passion makes her especially excited to support our Dreamlifers in achieving their “Dream Careers.” Outside of work, Jill is dedicated to helping others reach their full potential and brings a consistently positive attitude, even while supporting her mother through the challenges of dementia. She’s excited to bring this same compassion, energy, and positivity to DreamLife Destiny. Whether it's playing cards and board games or investigating your next career move, you will certainly love spending time with Jill!
Joan Decker | Compliance Specialist | She/Her
Joan has over 45 years of providing support in a variety of positions. Her training includes Person Centered Planning and certification through CQL, Council On Quality Leadership, an International accreditation process to support Quality standards for agencies serving individuals in many countries. Through her years, she has been associated with advocacy agencies such as Advocating Change Together (ACT), The Office of Olmstead Implementation, and work with Special Education transition programs with school districts around the Metro Area. In the summer you will Joan digging in her yard and garden. Anytime she can be outside in nature is a good time. Let her know when you want her to come pull weeds for you because you will definitely grow with Joan!
Joy DeVous | DreamLifer Services Navigator | She/Her
Joy is an uplifting individual who started her positive support journey caregiving for her mother who had Alzheimer's. She enjoyed supporting individuals so much that she changed her primary career from the event industry to home and community based support. Joy has advanced in our organization from DSP to Navigator helping to write detailed plans and provide oversight on superior and compassionate services. Joy has been helping individuals make a difference in their lives for almost half a decade. She believes if you want to lift yourself up, you lift up someone else! Joy enjoys cooking, events, reading, and loving on as many animals as possible. You'll definitely get some excitement and new activities with Joy!
Karla Rodriguez | DreamCareers Specialist | She/Her
Karla has a passion for helping others and being a voice for those who may not have their own. She was inspired to do this work by a relative who needed similar assistance. Karla transferred this passion into her career by working as a DSP in group homes for several years before moving into IHS over the last few years. She continues to grow her career doing both IHS and employment supports. When she's not working, she stays busy painting, crocheting, or taking nature walks to find her next inspiration. Karla will definitely help you find your passion!
Miah Reimann | Destiny Associate | She/Her
Miah is a caring support professional, dedicated to assisting individual with daily activities and long-term goals. With a year of experience, she finds joy in making a positive impact on the lives of those she supports. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Psychology at the University of Minnesota, Miah integrates her academic knowledge with practical experience to enhance the well-being of those she supports. Miah has a profound love of animals, having grown up on a hobby farm with goats, chickens, and more. She believes in the importance of art in life, regularly visiting art museums and attending theater shows to enrich her experiences. You'll definitely experience a lot with Miah!
Michela "Micky" Cortolezzis | Destiny Associate | They/Them
Micky has been working in the positive supports and IHS field for over a decade having worked in group homes, home and community based services, nursing homes, and in administrative roles. They bring compassion and expertise to supporting group home communities, balancing their professional commitment with creative passions such as photography, filmmaking, and cooking. In Micky's free time, they love spending time with their fiance, getting active, and going to concerts. Micky will be a creative sidekick on your journey!
Nathan "Nate" Luckow | Scheduling Specialist | He/Him
Nate is a community leader who keeps things running smoothly while ensuring there’s always something fun on the horizon. He holds a bachelor's degree in Digital Communications with an emphasis in audio and video production and does his best to add that fresh, engaging perspective to everything he does. Nate brings scheduling experience, technical skills, events coordination, and a passion for doing good to his work. In his spare time, Nate loves cooking, diving into new live production projects, and playing tabletop games. Nate will definitely help to keep you on track and engaged!
Paul Czerlanis | Destiny Associate | He/Him
Paul has eight years experience in the direct care field and has always enjoyed helping others achieve their goals and dreams. He considers his work in the field as more a vocation than a job. Paul has been involved with the Muscular Dystrophy Association since 2007 as a fundraiser, camp counselor, and cabin lead at their Summer Camp in Maple Lake. Paul has experience in the medical device field and in management for a variety of companies. Paul specializes in getting to know his clients well and providing them with experiences to help them have fun and thrive. Paul enjoys spending time with his family, going to movies, watching sports, experiencing new things, being with people, hiking with his two dogs and travelling to tropical destinations. Let's get going with Paul!
Phillip "Phill" Smoger | IHS Remote + EA Navigator | He/Him
Phill has spent his career in Information Technology which included the design and development of software products for a long term care company focusing on the needs of the client. He is a gifted individual with a caring soul and a drive to find the right answer. Additionally he has training in crisis situations and is part of the Minnesota Crisis Intervention Team. Phill enjoys spending time with his family and friends, staying active with regular workouts, and pursuing his passion for working in the yard. Phill is super excited about the opportunity to be working with you! What fun you will have with Phill!
Russell Peterson | Chief Caring Officer | CEO | Owner | He/Him
Russell spent much of his life as an at home dad raising two strong, talented, and beautiful women. He has a professional degree in Architecture and work towards a Masters. He is an architect and inventor having owned several companies and was the designer for successful facilities such as LifeTime Fitness, IDS/Amex Financial Services, Vision World, the Minneapolis Impound Facility, and the School for the Deaf and Blind. Russ has experience as an affordable housing provider being one of the individuals that started AEON serving on their board and as development director. He has a minor in social psychology and has extensive experience working with specialty populations designing many group homes, and ADA environments. He is ACRE certified in rehabilitation. His early career as an affordable housing developer has given him a unique perspective into the complete world of adaptive housing and individualized population needs. He discovered IHS work after he met his business partner; together they imagined starting a company that reflected on their caring and compassionate values combined with fun and adventure. Russell is focused on social awareness. He is a good listener, problem solver, and motivator. You will hear him say let's just get started with one thing, just one thing. Russell enjoys his perennial gardens, cooking, design, music, art, sports, theater, and fun outings. You will be in good hands with Russ!
Rory Prodoehl | Community Executive | He/Him
Rory joins the DreamTeam with over 30 years of experience at the helm of various teams and organizations, serving in executive and leadership capacities. While the world of social services is a new adventure for Rory, the core of his professional journey has always been about helping people thrive and unlock their inherent strengths. This unwavering commitment to individual potential is what drew Rory to our work. He is passionate about applying his extensive leadership skills to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we support and is eager to collaborate with our dedicated professionals to enhance our programs to build a stronger, more supportive community. Rory enjoys music, gardening, cooking, sports (especially the Wild hockey team), home improvement, theater, special events, and going out with friends. You will be excited about our new adventures with Rory!
Sandra Peterson | Scheduling + Customer Service Specialist | She/Her
Sandra (Sandy) Peterson is passionate about bringing order, clarity, and connection to the teams and individuals she supports with an expertise in scheduling and customer service. She believes that when people’s time and energy are aligned with their greater purpose, they are able to thrive both personally and professionally. Before joining DreamLife Destiny, Sandy built over two decades of experience in healthcare operations specialized in scheduling, clinician support, and operations analysis, developing systems that improved access, reduced stress, and helped people succeed in complex environments. Her gift lies in balancing compassion with structure, transforming challenges into opportunities, and creating space for others to discover clarity in the midst of complexity. At DreamLife Destiny, Sandy is excited to use those gifts to support the organization’s mission of helping people live with vision, purpose, and fulfillment. Your experiences will grow with Sandy!
Steven Kmoch | Financial Specialist | He/Him
Steven joined us after a 35 year career in domestic and international health insurance claim management and systems development. Working across cultural and language differences taught him that establishing open and trusting communications, maintaining a sense of humor and fostering mutual respect are foundational to success. A passion for travel, food and new experiences has led him to every continent except Antarctica. Steven loves theater, movies, reading, yard work, and spending time with family and friends. He volunteers with the Hennepin County Emergency Operations Center and enjoys time at the lake. He will specialize in billing, systems, and group activities along with occasional one on one support. You'll enjoy your time with Steven!
Tyler Segraves | Chief Fun Officer | President | Owner | He/Him
Tyler has been in the social services industry for nearly 15 years. Tyler has a Bachelors degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Social Services. He has held multiple roles and worked for a variety of companies including individual direct care to executive level management roles. The one thing he saw in all those years was a disconnect between management/ownership and the individuals served. His goal was to establish a company where the owners and experience had a direct positive impact working with individuals. Thus he created DreamLife Destiny to help people live their dreams and find their destiny. He is laser focused on the idea of community, self advocacy, and consistent mental health support. Tyler also has advanced training in crisis situations and is part of the Minnesota Crisis Intervention team. He is ACRE certified in rehabilitation. In his spare time, Tyler enjoys gardening, sports, evenings out with friends, and most importantly travel! You are going to have fun with Tyler!
Understanding and appreciating an individuals pronouns is an important component of living today. We appreciate your understanding and we value your patience in trying to address each individual appropriately whether DreamLifer or Associate.