Commemorating Our Managers for Their Leadership
Our managers from the Northwest Group deserve a round of applause.
Please join us in thanking the managers from our Northwest Group, including our Program Director and managers at our Janet Court, Ludden, and Viking homes.
Kim Phillips – Program Director
- Started in 1998
- Previously a Program Manager and Assistant Program Director
- One of our longest-term managers
“I had a wonderful time advocating for all the individuals at the Capitol this year.”
From Vice President of Community Services Alan Berner: “As a part of our recognition this week, we must include Kim Phillips in the list of exceptionally impactful leaders here at Phoenix. As our Program Director she has taken on the opportunity to help raise up and establish a very new leadership team here at Phoenix and we couldn't have anyone better. Kim delivers a master class not only on how to do this work, but exemplifies our core values in everything she does. She is motivated, talented, empathetic and caring in everything she does and her impact is felt throughout Phoenix. Kim thank you for the gift that you are and for sharing all of your years of service here!”
Shawna Zechmeister – Assistant Program Director
- Started in 1995
- Previously a Program Manager at Ludden House
- One of our longest-term managers
“Helping people has always been part of my life growing up. I wanted to be there to see people grow and be something in society. I love my job...as long as they are happy, safe & healthy, I know I’ve done my job. If not, it’s my job to find out why and make it right.
When talking about Diane Joarnt, who lives at Ludden House: “We’ve laughed, we’ve cried together...she’s part of my family. She’s like a sister.”
From Program Director Kim Phillips: “Shawna has a heart of gold always giving people her full attention when they need someone to lean on. Shawna is always thriving towards the Phoenix mission.”
Edwin Fahnbulleh - Janet Court 
- Started in 2023
- Previously a Regional Program Coordinator
"My favorite memory working at Phoenix was Kennedy's birthday at Janet Court. We had fun that day. That was a great day."
From Vice President of Community Services Alan Berner: “Edwin is a very caring, calming presence at Janet Court. He jumps in and lends a hand where needed and has been leading Janet Court for most of the past year. He has really dove into each of the individuals at Janet Court, getting to know what they need and collaborating with the staff to advocate for the supports and changes the individuals who live at Janet Court need. We're so appreciative for Edwin's service and look forward to him continuing to grow in his role at Phoenix.”
Monica Holmquist – Ludden House
- Hired in 2024
- New to Phoenix
“I look forward to continuing getting to know my residents and staff more, and to be the best I can be for the residents and staff.”
From Vice President of Community Services Alan Berner: “She has really jumped in with both feet. As one our newer Program Supervisors joining our Ludden team, Monica has been quick to get engaged with everyone at Ludden and has demonstrated a commitment to learning everything there is to know about her position and the people who live there. She asks great and thoughtful questions and has been an active participant in figuring out the day-to-day challenges that come up. We're very excited for the positive impact Monica is going to have on Ludden House as she gets settled into her position.”
LaToya Blount - Viking House 
- Started in 2023
- Previously a DSP
“My favorite memory from this past year was when we went to the zoo.”
From Vice President of Community Services Alan Berner: “LaToya has been with us at Viking for a little while as an RSP and quickly became a fixture. Her flexibility and dedication to helping ensure the individuals she was supporting stood out right away and she became a natural candidate to become one of our Program Supervisors at Viking. She continues to learn and grow in her role all while giving the program her very best!”
Courvoisier Odell - Viking House
- Started in 2024
- Previously a DSP
“I love coming in and seeing all the smiles on the residents’ faces when I come in and they beg me to cook because they love my cooking. I also love when they have bad days and I can turn their day around. Today, Olivia was having a bad morning, so she wanted me. I sat next to her; she loves to rub and smell my hair.”
From Vice President of Community Services Alan Berner: “Courvoisier was someone we recognized as being a leader the moment she came to Phoenix. She started as a DSP, but didn't stay there long as her leadership skills and interest in having an expanded impact at Viking was obvious from the moment she arrived. She is an exceptionally flexible and committed person and we have been so lucky to add her to our team this spring. We're looking forward to her continued partnership with the entire Viking team as we expand opportunities to get out and have fun at Viking House!”
Lisa Plaster - Float Program Supervisor
- Started in 2020
- Previously a DSP, Program Manager, and Regional Program Coordinator
“The memory I have in the past year is being able to spend Thursday afternoons with Jon going to his church group event. He and I have found out we have more things in common things we both enjoy now to talk about.”
From Program Director Kim Phillips: “Lisa always wants to lend a helping hand, no matter the situation. Lisa is an amazing advocate and always puts the residents’ needs first.”