John Adams is a well-known and successful advocate for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. He utilizes his knowledge of addiction, mental illness, social services, the streets, and poverty to advocate for those displaced by society. John's commitment to his community is unwavering.

Michael has a Master's in Social Work, focusing on policy and administration from the University of Wisconsin. He is an advocate for marginalized people and devoted to elevating their voices to help them be heard.

Ruchita Ervin is the co-founder and CEO of Our Generations Inc. and clinical supervisor at Catalyst for Change. She is currently practicing as a therapist by providing mental health and substance abuse treatment in the Madison, WI area.

Sarah Fink graduated with a Master’s in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago in June of 2021. She is a compassionate and creative individual who is effective and experienced at serving individuals, families, and youth.

Marjorie Lewis is a graduate of DePaul University. She has worked to support homeless individuals with severe mental illness and substance use disorders in Dane County since 2015.

Kimberly holds an associates degree in Business Management. Prior to working as the Human Resources and Finance Officer at Catalyst for Change, Kimberly served as Operations Specialist and then Program Director of The Beacon Day Resource Center.

Shailyn Brooks has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and carries a strong passion for forensic psychology.

Erick Sheftic (he/him) received a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Psychology from The College of Charleston, an MD from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, and completed Psychiatry residency at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics.

Kirstie brings a wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to her role, driven by her personal journey of transformation and commitment to making a positive impact. With a steadfast focus on building meaningful connections and empowering others to realize their potential, Kirstie embodies a deep sense of purpose in her work.

Arret (they/he) is an outreach specialist at Catalyst for Change. Arret worked for CFC as an intern during their undergraduate program at UW Madison and was hired to work full time after achieving their degree in spring of 2024. They have a passion for family outreach, and they firmly believe that all families deserve to have someone in their corner so they can navigate systems and achieve housing.

Drew is an Outreach Worker and CCS Provider for Catalyst for Change. Drew’s goals in life are to help as many people as he can discover themselves while at the same time allowing them to be comfortable with who they are becoming.

Lindsey holds a Bachelor’s of Social Work from Western Kentucky University.  Their academic background, combined with hands-on experience, enables them to approach each situation with empathy, a person-centered approach, and a mindset of ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, and included.

Jeff has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Pennsylvania State University. He previously worked for a non-profit criminal justice organization, assisting the Wisconsin Department of Corrections with community supervision. 

Dan Dreckschmidt has a Master's Degree in Education from UW-LaCrosse and Bachelor's Degrees in Sociology and Education from the UW-Madison. Over the past 27 years, Dan has served the community in several roles, including as a case manager for people with disabilities living in their own homes, a mentor for staff providing in home care, a group home manager providing transitional services for people with mental health and substance use issues, and a high school social studies teacher.

Laney is a Service Facilitator (case manager) and Array Service Provider at Catalyst for Change through the CCS program. Laney worked for CFC as an intern and was hired on after achieving their Bachelor’s of Social Work from UW-Madison.

Peyton Sippy received a master's degree in a rehabilitation psychology in Spring 2025.

Rae Tompson (they/them) is a team member coming in with an interesting background. Rae grew up in Manitowoc Wi before attending UW- Eau Claire to obtain their Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies.

Elizabeth Spake (she/her) graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelors in Social Work. Previously she worked as a financial and social services advocate for adults with intellectual disability.

Stephanie Burnham is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling at the University of Wisconsin–Madison with the goal of becoming a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Olivia has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from UW-Eau Claire.