Meet Our Team | Our Team by PADS Lake County

Allen Swilley

Executive Director

Smiling man in blue jacket in front of brick wall.

Eric Foote

Dir. of Finance & Operations

A woman with red glasses standing in front of a tree.

Claress Pettengill

Director of Development

A man in blue shirt standing next to water.

Nestor Sagun

Director of Programs

A young woman in a blue polo standing in front of a lake.

Karina Galindo

Client Services Manager

Smiling woman with brown hair and glasses in a blue shirt.

Damaris Hill

Operations Manager

A woman in blue jacket standing next to tree.

Charlotte Lawless

Accounting Specialist

Smiling woman with short brown hair in front of brick wall.

Latasha McKelvy

Permanent Supportive Housing, Manager

Xiomara Ruiz

Healthcare Manager

Jennifer Preston

Street Outreach Supervisor

A woman in a purple jacket and scarf standing next to bushes.

Madiha Chaudhry

Client Services Supervisor

A woman wearing a blue shirt standing in front of a tree.

Julie Halpern-Cordell

Grants Manager

A woman in purple shirt standing next to bushes.

Vicky Kulig

PSH Case Manager

Woman in glasses in front of brick wall.

Jill Beller

Intake Case Manager

Smiling woman with long brown hair in front of brick wall.

Katie Hoehne

Development Associate

AriBelle Marban

Prevention & Diversion Case Manager

Smiling person in black shirt, brick background.

Cassie Connet

Community Case Manager

Ruth Pea

Administrative Assistant

Woman in blue shirt, brick wall background.

Isita Patel

Shelter Manager

Smiling person in blue shirt, brick background.

Sharita Swift

Housing Navigator

Dedra Coleman

Permanent Supportive Housing Case Manager

Smiling man with dreadlocks and glasses.

Aaron Jones

Outreach Case Manager

Emmanuel Ramirez

Healthcare Case Manager

Jackie Washington

Shelter Manager

Jon Fretz, SHRM-CP

Human Resources Generalist

Michelle Jones

Behavioral Health Specialist

Ebony Brown

Inreach Case Manager

Chris Chapman

Inreach Case Manager

Executive Director

Allen Swilley

With an extensive background in nonprofit leadership spanning over 15 years, Allen brings a wealth of experience and a passion for effecting positive change within organizations that he has worked with.

Previously with Thrive Chicago, Allen led the Barack Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper Chicago initiative, where he skillfully orchestrated the collaboration of more than 65 organizations to collectively work and create more navigable institutional and community environments for boys and young men of color in Chicago. Embracing the belief that nonprofits exist to serve those most affected by imbalanced systems, Allen has made it his life’s mission to help overhaul these systems and eradicate deeply rooted social problems.

Allen’s dedication to addressing systemic issues is evident in his track record. Prior to his tenure at Thrive Chicago, he worked to rally communities in response to challenges like homelessness, affordable housing, and educational disparities among low-income and non-low-income students.

During his time as the Director of Interim Housing and Outreach at DuPage Pads, Allen played a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions about homelessness. His efforts helped secure $7 million of funding for DuPage County’s largest-ever fixed-site shelter. Additionally, he was instrumental in fostering community support for the creation of 111 units of affordable housing in Rogers Park through the city’s inaugural public-private real estate partnership.

Allen’s commitment to ongoing education to complement his vital work in the community is evident through the degrees he has acquired including an MBA from Roosevelt University, an MSC from Northwestern University, and his current work towards, a doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago.

Dir. of Finance & Operations

Eric Foote

Eric has spent much of his life doing his best to help others. Growing up the older brother of a person with an intellectual disability gave him early inspiration to work in the special education program at his school as well as volunteering at regional Special Olympics events. After college he turned this desire to help into work with nonprofits and eventually government where he switched his focus to grant making for organizations like PADS. Four years of government was enough though, and Eric is glad his next step was to PADS, an organization that provides tremendous benefit to people in need. As Director of Finance and Operations, he strives every day to ensure both the big picture and small details are well managed. When things are at their best the organization works for the people served, the staff providing the service and the community that supports this important organization.

Director of Development

Claress Pettengill

Claress Pettengill serves as PADS’ Director of Development. She works closely with the PADS’ leadership team, staff, and its Board to envision a sustainable future for the organization, seen from a strategic fundraising, communications, planning, and innovation lens. In her role, she leads PADS’ philanthropic efforts by leveraging its current strengths and opportunities to achieve an inclusive and integrated approach to transformative and donor-centered fundraising. Claress brings her collaborative style of leadership, strong commitment to the work for social justice, and her dynamic approach to relationship building in inspiring others to support our critical work with people experiencing homelessness. Claress is a self-proclaimed lifelong learner. One lesson that she adheres to is the belief in the power of creating genuine communities, building authentic relationships, and nurturing meaningful connections towards a better, more responsible, and kinder world!

Director of Programs

Nestor Sagun

Nestor views working for PADS is an opportunity to give back to a community he grew up in. Born and raised in Waukegan, he has seen many changes through the years so to be part of a positive change means so much to him. For over fourteen years, he has committed himself to working with people in social services throughout Lake County. This passion, commitment, and drive is fueled by his peers and co-workers everyday as we all work together to make a difference.

Client Services Manager

Karina Galindo

Karina Galindo is the Program Assistant at the Day Resource Center at PADS. Karina runs reports for different departments at PADS, assists clients with making appointments, checks mail and helps out wherever she can. She was born and raised in Waukegan. Karina attended high school at St. Martin de Porres Highschool in Waukegan where she was in a work study program. Her senior year of high school she interned at PADS and got her first glimpse of what it was like to work at PADS. Seven years later, Karina would work for PADS full time and has enjoyed being able to help the people in her community. In her free time she likes to spend time with her family and puppy Toby.

Operations Manager

Damaris Hill

Damaris provides administrative support to the PADS Lake County team. Damaris has lived in Lake County her whole life and has worked in the nonprofit community since 2019. When Damaris is not lending her support to PADS, she likes to make scrapbooks and other crafts for her family and friends.

Accounting Specialist

Charlotte Lawless

Charlotte serves as the Accounting Specialist for PADS. Having personally experienced a loved one battle mental illness and potential homelessness, she wholeheartedly believes in the PADS mission. In her loved one’s case, homelessness was avoided due to access to family and financial help as well as excellent healthcare. Unfortunately, there are many people that do not have these resources and are fighting this battle alone. Support and understanding is very important when someone is in crisis and Charlotte is grateful to be a part of an organization that has the passion to help.

Permanent Supportive Housing, Manager

Latasha McKelvy

Latasha has been employed with PADs for over 6 years. She began her employment here as a CSA (Client Service Aid), then became the Office Receptionist, and in 2021 she was offered another position where she became the Outreach Engagement Specialist. Today she is now the Outreach Program Supervisor, and she is able to provide a wide range of services to all individuals unsheltered in Lake County. She enjoys working with the people that we service here in Lake County. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her granddaughters.

Healthcare Manager

Xiomara Ruiz

Xiomara is fueled by an unwavering passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Her role at PADS is more than just a job; it’s a platform for her to be a vocal advocate for the most vulnerable in our community. As our Healthcare Coordinator, Xiomara collaborates seamlessly with diverse community partners to streamline access to vital healthcare services, ensuring our clients receive the support they need promptly. Her dedication is particularly evident in her work with clients facing high medical needs within our medical respite program.

Beyond her professional commitments, Xiomara cherishes her free time spent creating lasting memories with her family. A firm believer in the importance of self-care, she is constantly exploring new ways to nurture her well-being. Xiomara’s multifaceted approach to life reflects her commitment to both her community and her personal growth.

Street Outreach Supervisor

Jennifer Preston

Jennifer is currently PADS Lake County Street Outreach Case Manager and holds degrees in Criminal Justice and Human Services from CTU. Passionate about serving those in need, she volunteered for 2 years on the National Crisis line, aiding over 700 callers. Engaging in Outreach work for Lake County Ministries, she collaborates with professionals to address community issues. With years of experience assisting the elderly, she’s excited to make a difference at PADS and remains humble and thankful. Supported by her loving husband Terell and family, she lives by the motto “Never give up.”

Client Services Supervisor

Madiha Chaudhry

Meet Madiha Chaudhry, our dedicated Prevention and Diversion Specialist. Hailing from a small town in Pakistan, Madiha brings a wealth of experience and empathy to her role. With a bachelor’s degree from Pakistan and a background in psychology, she understands the importance of emotional support for individuals experiencing trauma.

For over 14 years, Madiha has been actively involved in volunteering with nonprofit organizations such as Humanity First, Feed My Starving Children, and AMC. Her commitment to making a positive impact on her community shines through in everything she does.

Madiha’s compassionate nature and eagerness to help are the cornerstones of her approach. She recognizes that those who walk through the doors of PADS may be facing challenging circumstances and need more than just shelter they need understanding and a caring hand to guide them. Madiha is here to provide that support, both to her clients and her team.

Grants Manager

Julie Halpern-Cordell

With a background as a school and public librarian, Julie is well-versed in research and public service. She’s also a prolific writer with nine books to her name, spanning various genres. Her passion for serving the community and her commitment to helping others are at the heart of her role as Grants Manager. Julie tirelessly seeks funding opportunities to support PADS in providing vital services to our Lake County neighbors, making a significant impact on our community’s well-being. We are happy to have Julie’s dedication and unique talents on our team!

PSH Case Manager

Vicky Kulig

Vicky is a dedicated Permanent Support Housing Case Manager with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Dubuque and soon to complete her Master’s in Social Work at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Her fervor lies in assisting individuals in finding the support needed to secure a place to call home. She firmly believes in addressing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, understanding that fulfilling basic requirements such as shelter, food, and security opens avenues to address mental and physical health needs.

Outside of work and academia, she embraces an active lifestyle with a penchant for gym workouts and yoga. Exploring the Lake County, Chicago, and Milwaukee areas with her boyfriend, savoring coffee, and indulging in a good read are some of the activities that bring joy to Vicky’s life. She is driven by a passion for making a positive impact on individuals’ lives, fostering a sense of home, and promoting holistic well-being.

Intake Case Manager

Jill Beller

Jill Beller is a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. She also holds an Associate’s degree in Human Resources from Harper College. Jill joined PADS because she felt a calling to help people. Prior to joining PADS, she spent 15 years working at several agencies that provided services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While travelling to Las Vegas, she learned about the large homeless population there, how they have adapted their lives to survive, and was motivated to help those similarly affected closer to home.

Development Associate

Katie Hoehne

Katie Hoehne is a communications specialist with expertise in public relations and program management. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Carroll University and has a strong communications background with both the Chicago Cubs and Amazon. At PADS Lake County, Katie uses multiple channels to share the organization’s mission, vision, and positive impact on the community.

Prevention & Diversion Case Manager

AriBelle Marban

AriBelle received her degree in Sociology- Criminology Track, Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies and has a minor in Spanish. Her previous role as a housing case manager at another non-profit agency along with her passion for empowering and supporting clients has allowed Ms. Marban to provide tailored resources and implement strategies to prevent homelessness for individuals and families facing housing instability. AriBelle strives to make each client feel heard and supported, connecting clients with essential services and resources as they work towards stable housing. In her free time, Ari loves to create art, spend time outside and hang out with her friends and family.

Community Case Manager

Cassie Connet

Cassie is a compassionate Community Case Manager at PADS with a degree in Human Services. With a strong commitment to empowering individuals, Cassie works diligently to assess needs, coordinate care, and connect clients with essential resources. Her expertise in human services allows her to offer personalized support, advocate for vulnerable populations, and foster positive outcomes for individuals and families. Driven by a deep passion for making a difference, Cassie is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and promoting the well-being of the community.

Administrative Assistant

Ruth Pea

Ruth is an administrative assistant at PADS. Her primary role is assisting the finance team. She is so proud to be a part of the PADS family. She wants to emphasize the kindness, dedication and perseverance of the PADS staff.

Ruth is a lifelong Cub fan and loves rooting her team on.

Shelter Manager

Isita Patel

Isita Patel is an accomplished hospitality professional with more than 17 years of experience in sales, business development, and management. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from India and has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional results through strategic planning, client relationship management, and revenue growth.

Throughout her career, Isita has consistently identified new business opportunities, cultivated lasting partnerships, and driven performance in highly competitive markets. Her dedication, adaptability, and customer-focused approach make her a valuable asset to organizations seeking sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Outside of work, Isita enjoys spending quality time with her family and son and finds peace and inspiration through regular visits to the temple.

Housing Navigator

Sharita Swift

Sharita Swift is a dedicated Housing Navigator at PADS Lake County, where she connects individuals and families experiencing homelessness with stable, supportive housing solutions. With a strong background in customer service and a passion for helping others, Sharita brings empathy, resourcefulness, and strategic problem-solving to her work every day.

Permanent Supportive Housing Case Manager

Dedra Coleman

Dedra Coleman is a compassionate and dedicated professional with over 22 years of experience as a Mental Health Technician. Dedra now serves as a Supportive Case Manager, working closely with individuals experiencing homelessness to help them access resources, stabilize their lives, and move toward long-term well-being. Dedra brings deep empathy, resilience, and a commitment to advocacy in every aspect of her work.

Outreach Case Manager

Aaron Jones

AJ comes to PADS with over a decade of combined account management, outside sales and client-focused nonprofit experience. As an Outreach Case Manager at PADS, AJ meets and assists individuals experiencing homelessness wherever they may be sheltering in the community. In his role, AJ collaborates with community members and agencies to address each client’s individual needs.

AJ engages clients, community, friends and family using trauma-informed practices and believes that active listening is a necessary skill that must be honed intentionally. His motto is “nothing beats a failure but, a try” and he believes that helping each other is the best way to help oneself. Working in Outreach blends AJ’s quick rapport-building skills with his passion for empowering others.

Healthcare Case Manager

Emmanuel Ramirez

Emmanuel brings compassion, reliability, and a community-centered approach to his work, striving to ensure no one faces their health challenges alone. In his role, he focuses on providing timely connections to local healthcare partners, ensuring clients receive appropriate medical support, follow-up, and guidance. As a bilingual Spanish speaker, Emmanuel serves as an advocate for individuals and families who may face language barriers, helping them navigate medical systems and access critical resources. His work is driven by a deep passion for serving others, especially those who are often overlooked.

Much of Emmanuel’s experience is rooted in community-based service and his involvement with his local church, where he has spent years supporting individuals in need. This foundation continues to shape his approach to care, advocacy, and meaningful connection.

Shelter Manager

Jackie Washington

As a native of Waukegan, Jackie is deeply committed to the culture, climate, and well-being of the community. With 32 years of experience in public education, she brings a strong foundation in supporting individuals and families. As Shelter Manager, she strives to create a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel supported, respected, and valued.

Jackie works closely with staff and community partners to help clients move toward stability and long-term success. She believes that leading with integrity, transparency, and collaboration creates positive outcomes for both clients and the teams that support them.

Jackie enjoys building meaningful relationships within the community and being part of work that creates lasting, positive change.

Human Resources Generalist

Jon Fretz, SHRM-CP

Jon has over 15 years of experience working in human resources and organizational leadership across non-profit organizations, for profit companies, startups, and larger organizations. In his work, he has focused on supporting staff, improving internal systems, and helping organizations build workplaces where people feel respected and equipped to do meaningful work.

As the Human Resources Generalist at PADS Lake County, Jon works to ensure the organization functions well for the people it serves, the staff providing services, and the community that supports this important work. He approaches Human Resources as a collaborative, practical function, focused on clarity, fairness, and long-term sustainability.

Behavioral Health Specialist

Michelle Jones

Michelle Jones serves as PADS Lake County’s Behavioral Health Specialist. She comes to the role with almost 10 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Her experience includes working in private and public sectors servicing individuals that are experiencing mental health and substance use disorders. She has also worked in previous roles with individuals experiencing homelessness, assisting with making connections to social supportive services and housing and is excited to have the opportunity of working with the homeless community again. Michelle is a Master of Health Science graduate of Governors State University with a focus in Counseling. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and holds a certification as a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

Michelle’s approach to therapy is holistic, which seeks to understand all factors that contribute to an individual’s present state of being. Her goal is to assist individuals with accomplishing identified goals and enhancing their ability to self-regulate emotions. Michelle lives by her own identified philosophy, which is “when we treat one another with kindness and respect as well as with an open mind, our possibilities are endless.”

Inreach Case Manager

Ebony Brown

Ebony is currently pursuing a degree in social work and brings over 15 years of experience working in the social services field with individuals across multiple age groups. Throughout their career, they have supported diverse populations, developing a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, advocacy, and client-centered support. Their work is driven by a deep commitment to dignity, equity, and meeting people where they are as they navigate challenges related to housing instability and other life transitions.

In addition to their professional background, Ebony values creativity and self-expression as important tools for balance and connection. In their free time, they enjoy painting and singing karaoke, activities that allow them to recharge and bring positive energy into both their personal and professional life. They are passionate about continuing their growth in social work and remain dedicated to serving individuals and families with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Inreach Case Manager

Chris Chapman

Chris Chapman is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of providing compassionate, individualized support for adults with disabilities in group home settings. Over the course of her career, she has cultivated extensive experience across a variety of nonprofit organizations, developing a deep understanding of advocacy, care coordination, and the importance of creating supportive environments where individuals feel valued and empowered.

Currently, as an Inreach Case Manager with PADS, Chris works with individuals experiencing homelessness, providing guidance, connecting them with essential resources, and advocating for their dignity and well-being. She is deeply committed to strengthening the community she calls home, driven by a profound desire to empower others, foster resilience, and create meaningful opportunities for people to succeed.