Keshia Adams
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 362
Work Email: keshia@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Indiana University with a Master's in Public Affairs and will be completing my second Master's in Liberal Studies in the summer of 2012. I chose Dunebrook and I am more thankful that Dunebrook chose me because I really do believe that parents must make a child know that he or she is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn't been, and until the end of the world there will not be another child like him or her.
Emily Barnes
Healthy Families Resource Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 351
Work Email: emily@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Indiana University South Bend in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. I started my journey with Dunebrook in 2008 and have loved every moment here. I have three beautiful children who inspire me everyday.
Jae Byrd
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 352
Work Email: jae@dunebrook.org
I graduated in 2009 from Indiana University Northwest with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. I believe every child deserves to be healthy and happy. Here at Dunebrook, my passion to work with families and belief of ensuring the safety of children have met. My favorite quote comes from Henry Ford, "Whether you think you can or you can't, you're right."
Kelsi Camplan
Community Partners Family Support Worker
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 334
Work Email: kelsi@dunebrook.org
I completed my undergraduate degree at Purdue University North Central in Liberal Studies, and now I am pursuing a Master's of Education in Mental Health Counseling at Purdue University Calumet. In my spare time, I love reading, scrapbooking, and spending time with my friends and family! My favorite quote comes from my favorite movie, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off": 'Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.'
Kim Davis
Community Partners Family Support Worker
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 365
Work Email: kimdavis@dunebrook.org
My educational history is a B.A. in Behavioral Science with an emphasis in Social Work. I've chosen to work at Dunebrook because I believe in the importance of families. The programs here at Dunebrook are designed to strengthen and enrich each family we work with, I love being a part of this process! I have raised 3 children and consider them my best life experience.
Katie Deardorff
Healthy Families Family Resource Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 331
Work Email: katie@dunebrook.org
I chose to work at Dunebrook because of the awesome programs they provide to our community and the chance to reach out to people. The people that I work with make it that much better!
Diana Dibkey
Executive Director
Work 7451 West Johnson Road Michigan City, IN 46360 United States
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007
Work Email: diana@dunebrook.org
My association with Dunebrook began over twenty years ago when it was merely a dream. The dream was that agencies involved in child abuse investigations would work together to protect children and that services would be created to help parents and prevent child abuse and neglect. I believe passionately in the dream.
Ellen Dwyer
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 338
Work Email: ellen@dunebrook.org
My career spans 3 decades, home visiting with the elderly was my first job, Director of a telephone reassurance program, associate director of a large social service agency, and executive director of a community action agency, all in Kentucky. I moved back to Michigan City in 2006 to marry my 8th grade friend. Since I was changing everything in my life, I decided I would like to work with children and am happy to be at Dunebrook.
Julie Fowler
Community Partners Family Support Worker
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 329
Work Email: julie@dunebrook.org
I have worked at Dunebrook since December 1996. I began here as a home visitor with Healthy Families, moved on to serving teen moms in the Even Start program and eventually served all families in Healthy Families. I have facilitated Nurturing Parenting classes and am currently a home visitor with Community Partners. I attend Purdue University North Central and am working towards a degree in Social Work. I believe the work we do with families is important.
"We must remember that one determined person can make a significant difference, and that a small group of determined people can change the course of history." - Sonia Johnson
Gabrielle Ginther
Healthy Families Coordinator
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 354
Work Email: gabrielle@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Purdue University in 2007 with a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science. I was first introduced to Dunebrook during my last semester and was given the opportunity to complete my internship here. I was then a home visitor for the Healthy Families program for two and a half years. I have been in my current role as Home Visitation Supervisor for a year and a half. I love being part of this agency and feel very blessed to have a career I love, while supporting the vision of every child safe, healthy, and happy.
Julie Harvey
Nurturing Families Program Manager
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 306
Work Email: julie.harvey@dunebrook.org
I grew up in Valparaiso and that is where my husband, Tim, and I choose to raise our two sons Zac and Ben. I graduated from Indiana State University and pursued a life long dream career with the Indiana State Police. I felt that I really needed to be working with children so I made a career change and became an Indiana state investigator with child protective services for over 10 years.  I was blessed by being hired by Dunebrook as their Nurturing Families Program Manager and I am so very excited about their new program and I hope to be working for Dunebrook for a very long time.
Pamela Henderson
Development Director
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 326
Work Email: pam@dunebrook.org
My career was spent as a Vice President and Trust Officer for a large bank in another community. I enjoyed guiding clients in meeting their charitable goals, and working with charitable organizations in helping them to build capacity; however, I really missed not working in my hometown community, where my family lives, works and attends school. I love being part of an organization that strives to make life a little happier and safer in our corner of the world for children and families; and, in my role, I aspire to encourage others to join me in sharing that same passion.
Pam Higley
Human Resources/Receptionist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 363
Work Email: higley@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Science in Management. I started working in Human Resources right after high school and have been hooked ever since. The moment I walked into Dunebrook for my interview I knew I wanted to work here. The programs and staff here at Dunebrook are great.
Gail Johnson
Public Advocacy & Education Director, Parents as Teachers Indiana State Leader
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 309
Work Email: gail@dunebrook.org
I have worked at Dunebrook since the Fall of 2004 and appreciate every day as a new opportunity to advocate for children, support PAT programs across the state and work alongside the finest group of women I have ever had the honor to know.
Cristina Jones
Parents as Teachers Parent Educator
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 314
Work Email: cristina@dunebrook.org
I am originally from Brazil. I have a teaching degree in elementary education and I also study classical music, specifically the piano. I enjoy working with people, and I like to teach and help them learn. I speak 3 different languages, Portuguese, English, and Spanish. What I enjoy most about my position here is that I discover day by day that I can connect with the families I serve because of our similarities.
Amanda Kessinger
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 357
Work Email: amanda@dunebrook.org
I completed my undergraduate degree from Indiana University Northwest and am pursuing a master's degree in Criminology in the fall. I chose a career with Dunebrook because I enjoy working with the community.
Sonja Lancioni
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 355
Work Email: sonja@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington with a BS degree in Human Resource Management and a special studies Minor in the Spanish Language with a semester studies program in Spain. My experience has been in HR recruiting and employee programs as well as teaching preschool and elementary age children, 3 years of which was spent in the La Porte Community School Corporation. I have been married for 22 years and have 2 wonderful daughters. I am glad to be able to serve the Spanish and English speaking families at Dunebrook now for 5 years. The quote by Ghandi, "Be the change you hope to see in the world" is what I try to live by and see this change through the family outreach provided by Dunebrook's programs.
Rita Layton
Administrative Assistant
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 335
Work Email: rita@dunebrook.org
Dunebrook has held a very special place in my heart ever since moving to LaPorte County. The services provided to families are so beneficial to our community in so many ways. I am fortunate to be associated with Dunebrook.
Brandi Lewis
Home Visitation Program Director
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 315
Work Email: Brandi@dunebrook.org
Graduating from Purdue University with a Bachelor's degree in Communication, I am passionate about helping to build a positive team that provides the highest quality of service in ensuring that EVERY child is Safe, Healthy, and Happy! Having been with Dunebrook for nearly 10 years, I feel honored to be connected to an agency that does so much to strengthen our community.
Michelle Maroney
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 360
Work Email: michelle@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Indiana University with an Applied Health Science degree, majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. I completed minors in Sociology and Human Sexuality, and served as a Sexual Health Educator throughout my final year at IU. After completing an internship in Community Health Education I knew I wanted to continue to work in prevention, but I missed the family centered work I had done throughout my degree program. In the meantime I got licensed to sell insurance until I found the perfect fit; Dunebrook. I relocated to Northwest Indiana in the Fall of 2011 and am happy to call this agency, home.
Angie Marsh
Child Advocacy Center Director
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 316
Work Email: marsh@dunebrook.org
Angie graduated from Purdue University in 1996 with an Aviation Technology degree. She went to work in Safety and Security at United Airlines after graduation. In 1999 Angie stayed home for 3 years to start her family and in 2002 worked as a preschool teacher until 2006 when she came to work for Dunebrook. Angie began as a home visitor for Healthy Families, then moved to Healthy Families Supervisor, A Short Term Home Visitation Program Manager and is currently the Child Advocacy Center Coordinator and Forensic Interviewer.
Patricia Martin
Social Media and Marketing Coordinator/Americorps Representative
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 327
Work Email: patty@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelors of Arts in Behavioral Sciences, with a concentration in Psychology. I'm planning on going back to school to get a second degree in Computer Science and Graphic Design. I have immensely enjoyed my time here at Dunebrook, and have enjoyed learning all about their programs and the good they do for the community.
Gilda Mary
Home Visitation Supervisor
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 340
Work Email: gilda@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Behavioral Sciences. I have always had a desire to advocate for children. My position at Dunebrook as a Home Visitation Supervisor & back up Forensic Interviewer has helped me support that dream.
Beni Miller
Community Partners Family Support Worker- Porter County
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 304
Work Email: beni@dunebrook.org
"Let's put our minds together to see what kind of life we can make for our children." - Sitting Bull
Tia Miller
Community Partners Program Director
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 308
Work Email: tia@dunebrook.org
My passion is working with prevention services and supporting the needs of families and children. Dunebrook encompasses the values of every child: safe, healthy and happy, that truly speaks the words of my passion. Every family and child needs to see how important they are and we are there to support families. I'm truly blessed to be working in this field and love every day of my job.
Becky Minich
Nurturing Parenting Coordinator
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 333
Work Email: becky@dunebrook.org
The programs at Dunebrook help to educate parents to be the best parents they can be and offer support to each individual. Nelson Mandella said it best; "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world."
Janice Moelker
Healthy Families Supervisor
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 356
Work Email: janice@dunebrook.org
When I was a child, if you asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer would have been, "A Mommy." I fulfilled that dream by becoming the mother of 3 sons and now continue as a Family Support Specialist to help other Mom's be the best that they can be.
Elise Nothstine
Community Partners Family Support Worker
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 344
Work Email: elise@dunebrook.org
I received a Liberal Arts degree in 2007 from Florida Gulf Coast University. I have worked at Dunebrook since September 2008 as a Family Support Worker in the Community Partners program. I have had the opportunity to serve families in LaPorte County by helping to build their support system, connecting them to available resources and encouraging healthy family relationships.
Jennifer Olson
Community Partners Program Supervisor
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 341
Work Email: olson@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Purdue University Calumet with degrees in Sociology and Human Development: Child and Family Services. I started at Dunebrook as an intern; I was hired as a temporary, part-time home visitor for Community Partners and then was promoted to my current position. I am the coordinator for PSUPP and First Candle as well as the Supervisor for Community Partners.
My favorite quote is: All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me. - Walt Disney
Melissa Pawelko
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 310
Work Email: melissa@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Purdue University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science. I began working for Dunebrook in October 2010 for the Healthy Families program. I am currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University. I enjoy working for Dunebrook to support the mission of every child safe, healthy, and happy!
Jenny Pelc
Community Partners Family Support Worker
Work Email: jenny@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Purdue University in 2011 with a BS in Youth, Adult and Family Studies with minors in Psychology and Sociology. I began working at Dunebrook a few months later. I am so glad I am working here because I love the friendly and inviting atmosphere and I am glad that I am working for a company that can help so many people.
Ronisha Pratt
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 347
Work Email: ronisha@dunebrook.org
I have a Bachelor's Degree with over 7 years of experience working with small children and adolescents. My favorite color is purple and I enjoy the performing arts.
Kim Rager
Community Partners Resource Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 345
Work Email: kim@dunebrook.org
I started out as an intern in 2008...and haven't been able to leave since! With a Bachelor's Degree in Social Services from Purdue North Central, Dunebrook fit everything I was looking for in a career. With a busy life including a husband and son, I couldn't imagine a better place to work!
Lena Ritchie
Administrative Services Manager
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007
Work Email: lena@dunebrook.org
The reason I have chosen Dunebrook: A hundred years from now...it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove...but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.
Lisa Sharp
Community Partners Team Leader
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 361
Work Email: lisa@dunebrook.org
"Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression." - Dr. Haim Ginott, Child Psychologist
Tobi Small
QA Director and Network Manager
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 324
Work Email: tobi@dunebrook.org
I knew through my college years I wanted to work with families. When I found Dunebrook, it was as if a career was made especially for me. I take our vision to heart; Every Child, safe, healthy, happy.
Jennifer Solner
Healthy Families Family Resource Specialist
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 330
Work Email: solner@dunebrook.org
I have been with Dunebrook for three years, and have enjoyed how my role here has changed. I went from part-time reception to full time Volunteer Coordinator/Reception and Body Safety presenter. Body Safety is my favorite part of my job, because I get out in the community and meet with children and parents to promote child abuse prevention. At home I enjoy spending time with my husband of 21 years, and my two children. My hobbies include reading, cheering for the Chicago Bears during football season, and cooking.
Esther Stiles
Family Advocate
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 323
Work Email: esther@dunebrook.org
Esther is a native of LaPorte- graduating from LaPorte High School in 1990. Esther has her Master's Degree in Counseling/Psychology and has a history of working with children and families impacted by violence and abuse since 1996.
Megan Swartz
Receptionist
Work Email: megan@dunebrook.org
I graduated from Bethel College with a degree in History. I enjoy reading and singing and I love maps.
Arielle Torres
Healthy Families Supervisor
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 350
Work Email: arielle@dunebrook.org
I began working for Dunebrook in February of 2010. I graduated from Purdue in 2009 with a Bachelors degree and I am currently pursuing a Masters Degree in School Counseling. I enjoy doing Zumba, shopping, and reading in my spare time. I will be getting married in October 2011 to my best friend... Look out for the name change!
"Let the world change you and you can change the world" -Che Guevara
Chris Whorwell
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: (219) 874-0007 ext. 339
Work Email: chris@dunebrook.org
I have been employed at Dunebrook for 9 1/2 years. I enjoy working with the families and their babies. I am a graduate of Purdue North Central. Two young men, Luke and Stephen, call me Mom. I love to garden and watch things grow. My favorites are Hostas and Perrenials and I also adore African Violets.
Stacey Wolan
Healthy Families Family Support Specialist
Work Phone: 219-874-0007 ext. 342
Work Email: stacey@dunebrook.org
In 2009 I graduated from Purdue University with my BA in Psychology and a minor in Marketing. Currently I am now pursuing a Masters in Mental Health Counseling again at Purdue University. I've always loved the field of psychology and have been fascinated by the human mind since my first psych class in high school. I chose to work at Dunebrook because I felt that I could finally put my education and knowledge to good use by helping others learn how to help themselves.
