 Hey,
I’m Cheryl and I’m sure you’ve seen me wandering
about. Actually, I’ve probably been wandering around here
since before you were even born. I started here doing clerical
and youth work, then just youth work, then clerical and youth
work and now mostly just clerical. I think I’ve been here
so long because it’s such a great place. I’ve learned
so much about making and maintaining good relationships and seeing
the positive effect people can have on each other. We’re
all very lucky to have this place. Previously, I worked in Residential
Treatment with kids and did a couple years of teaching elementary
education. Now my greatest and most enjoyable time is spent with
my two girls, Hayley and Hannah. They bring more smiles to my
face than I ever thought I could have!
My name is Kimmie Pasquesi and I work at both The Firehouse, and at the Senior Center. I have a BA from Columbia College in Sign Language Interpreting, and a teaching certification from National-Louis University in secondary education. I love working at both places, and getting involved with the kids and the seniors! I also coach figure skating at Centennial Ice Rink and have been there for the past 10 years. When I am not working, I love spending time with my friends, family, and fiancé Jonathan. I fell so lucky to be involved with such great programs, in a great community!
My name is Jess Gerber. I have worked on and off at The Firehouse since the spring of 2004. I am currently living in Lincoln Park while attending DePaul University. After I graduate, I hope to pursue a degree in social work. My family still lives in Highland Park and my sisters both attend Highland Park High School. I thoroughly enjoy the time that I spend here and can't wait to get to know each and everyone of you!
My name is Jenna Schwalbach, and I am a youth worker at The Firehouse. I have a BA from Alverno College in Psychology. Currently, I am working on my MA in Forensic Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. In the past I have volunteered at Junior Achievement teaching supplemental lesson plans at an elementary school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I really enjoy working with kids to help them apply what they learn in school to their everyday life. When not working or in school, you can usually find me distance running.
My name is Nate Harkness. I began working at The Firehouse in the fall of 2008. I am pursuing my master's degree in Intercultural Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinty School. I have a beautiful wife and daughter. I have traveled through South America, Europe, Kenya, and Pakistan and enjoy learning about languages and cultures. I play several instruments and write music. I also enjoy outdoor activities, especially hiking, camping, and canoeing. I especially love working with kids of all ages and EXTRA especially love all of the kids here at The Firehouse.
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My
name is Charlotte Landsman, and I am the Manager of Youth & Senior
Services. I'm responsible for the budget, hiring of staff,
program policies, and the operation of all of the programs offered
at the Firehouse. I have been working here since 1981, starting
in a part-time position and then a full-time as a Program Supervisor.
After I went back to school and got my Master's Degree
in Counseling, I was promoted to the position I am in now. One
reason you may not see me as much as the other staff is that
I spend half of my time at the Senior Center. I feel very fortunate
to have this job and could not imagine working anywhere else!
I have two grown children who used to come to the Firehouse when
they were younger. Feel free to talk to me anytime if you have
suggestions about our programs. I value your opinions and want
to make the Firehouse a great place for you.
My
name is Don Miner and I have been a Program Supervisor at the
Firehouse since 1995. I have been working with children and families
since 1984. I think the Firehouse is a great place, not just
because of the cool building and games, but also because of the
incredibly cool kids who come through our doors. I love playing
games that don't require electric power. (That is because
when I was a kid, my classmate Thomas Edison had yet to start
his career as an inventor.) When I am not at the Firehouse, I
am spending time with my family and friends, riding my bike,
reading, and staying up late at night writing bad jokes.
My
name is Jeff Hunter, and you probably don’t know me because
I am here early in the morning taking care of the Firehouse.
I used to come here when I was a kid a long, long time ago, in
the early days of the Firehouse. When I am not at the Firehouse,
I am working on antique custom cars or watching the Bears, Rush,
or Cubs.