Network Professionals
Welcome to our Professional Resources page! While Google offers a ton of information, it can often feel overwhelming, especially when seeking services such as Estate Planning Attorneys, Financial Planners, Realtors, Mortgage Advisors, Contractors, and other business professionals crucial for making important life decisions.
In our experience, we often found ourselves relying on referrals from casual conversations when discussing the challenges we faced. Due to time constraints, we didn’t always have the opportunity to thoroughly vet or interview multiple professionals, leading us to make decisions reactively rather than proactively.
Our goal is to alleviate the stress and uncertainty associated with finding reliable professionals by personally vetting a selection of business experts. We aim to provide you with options and peace of mind knowing that these professionals have been carefully chosen based on criteria such as experience, compassion, patience, and expertise in working with families with dependents who have disabilities. *The professionals listed on the MCC website have no legal or other obligation to MCC and visa versa. They are provided as a courtesy by MCC and only a recommendation to anyone who visits our website.
If you’ve had a positive experience with a professional in any of these fields, we encourage you to reach out to us. By sharing your recommendations, you’ll help us expand our portfolio and better serve our community. Together, let’s build a network of trusted professionals dedicated to assisting families like yours.
Beyond Nonprofit and Professional Resources, Wisconsin provides various services for individuals with disabilities. Our objective is to streamline access to these additional resources for families by consolidating them in one place. If you are aware of other service opportunities, please inform us, and if we deem them beneficial, we will gladly include them on our website.
Attorneys
Liam Gilhooly
(Estate Planning Attorney)
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Alongside planning for life’s inevitabilities – death and taxes, I’m on a mission to make a real difference in the lives of families, especially those with children who have disabilities.
When I’m not busy crafting legal strategies at W.R. Stewart & Associates, you’ll likely find me at the ballpark, cheering on the Brewers or the White Sox, or cruising through the streets on my rollerblades, soaking in the beauty of Madison. I’m also a passionate cyclist, exploring the city’s bike paths whenever the weather permits.
Beyond that, I’m honored to play a role in making a positive impact in our community by serving on the board of directors for Morgan’s Caring Connection because it’s a cause close to my heart.
So whether you’re in need of estate planning assistance or simply want to chat about the latest baseball game, I’m here to help. Let’s navigate the legal landscape together while enjoying life’s simple pleasures along the way.
Dera Johnsen-Tracy
(Estate Planning Attorney)
Horn & Johnsen SC in Madison, Wisconsin.
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Jake Joling
(Estate Planning Attorney)
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Outside of the office, Jake enjoys playing a round of golf, getting outdoors, and enjoying live music!
Anna Loess
(Elder Law, Family Law, Contested Guardianship Attorney)
Anna is a partner with DeWitt LLP and is based out of DeWitt’s Madison office.
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She focuses her practice in the areas of guardianships/elder law litigation matters, probate and trust administration and litigation matters, and family law matters. She brings twenty-five years of experience to her cases and is licensed in Wisconsin and Illinois. She guides families through the guardianship and protective placement process, both in contested and in uncontested matters. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two teenagers, and two questionably behaved dogs, as well as delving into Madison’s rich local music scene.
Coming Soon!
(Estate Planning Attorney)
Coming Soon!
(Estate Planning Attorney)
Casey Collins
(Financial Advisor)
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Casey very much learned the challenges these families and students faced and developed great empathy for these circumstances. Casey has also been involved with the Arc of Dane County as a volunteer in the past. More recently, Casey has focused his volunteer efforts on endeavors that he finds more personally rewarding, and this organization fits that paradigm.
Professionally, Casey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ & independent financial advisor with LPL Financial. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Finance, Investments, and Banking from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business with distinction.
Over the years, he’s been an active member of his community with Hoofer Sailing Club, Lyme Disease Association, Membership Chair for Rotary After Hours of Madison, and a panelist for the Wisconsin Technology Council Governor’s Business Plan contest.
Casey enjoys sailing, windsurfing, hiking, fishing and hunting. When not working, Casey plays guitar and bass in several musical endeavors. He currently resides in downtown Madison.
Stephanie Forrester
(Financial Advisor)
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She provides comprehensive wealth management services to her clients including guidance on financial planning, budgeting, retirement, and how to navigate unforeseen life transitions. She specializes in helping families and individuals with disabilities and special needs and enjoys taking complex situations and breaking them down into solvable problems for her clients. Previously, she worked as an Associate Advisor at Wipfli Financial Advisors, where she assisted in the servicing of high net worth individuals and families.
In addition to her work in the industry, Stephanie is very active in her community, previously serving as a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor. Originally from Caledonia, MN, Stephanie now resides in Madison, WI and enjoys camping, reading, and spending time with friends and family in her spare time.
“Growing up in a large family, I understood at an early age the value of saving and budgeting. Life can be unpredictable, and helping people through times of great turmoil and change and empowering them with information and guidance is why I do what I do.”
Bret Sullivan
(Financial Advisor)
Bret is the owner of Bret Sullivan Agency- COUNTRY Financial and has more than a decade of experience in the insurance and financial services industry.
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I have a passion for working with special needs families, as I have seen firsthand how proper planning and protection can positively benefit their situation. I take an individualized approach and know that there is no one size fits all solution, and pride myself on open and clear communication. Whether it is life insurance, home and auto insurance, or financial planning services, I am here to enrich the communities that I serve”
While not in the office Bret enjoys hiking, spending time with his two dogs Leo and Jack Jack, and Wisconsin sports.
Cassin Wolfe
(Financial Advisor)
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Carrie Waters-Schmidt
(Financial Advisor)
Equanimity Wealth Planning and Investing have been working with Special Needs families,
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Sometimes our day-to-day lives can require all our energy, making it hard to see past the everyday tasks and look to the future. But, it doesn’t have to be this way.
Carrie has been the board President of YogAutismTM, Inc, a non-profit that focuses on working with autistic individuals to down regulate their nervous system, since 2018, is familiar with the state’s CLTS and IRIS systems, is knowledgeable in the various Social Security benefits, and has presented on the 529ABLE plan at various different conferences. She works comprehensively with clients by looking at the broad picture that includes evaluating taxes now and in the future, employer benefits, insurances, investments, and current estate plans. Their approach to planning will help you and your family:
- Determine the available amount for your Special Needs heir should you pass away
- Ensure enough assets are available for their care and longevity while making sure you will be adequately provided for
- Simulate the future impact of taxation on saved assets based on how an asset is owned, how it’s invested, and how it’s saved
- Balance state and federal aid eligibility with earned income and saved assets
- Simulate the flow of assets at your death and determining if changes need to be made to your estate plan
Visit their website at www.EquanimityWealth.com for free financial resources or to book an appointment.
Ryan McGuire
(Financial Advisor)
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As a big brother to a wonderful young lady with special needs, Ryan is inspired to help individuals live their most independent and best lives. Ryan advises families like his own across the United States on most areas related to financial and resource planning. Ryan was appointed in 2024 by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers to the Board for Persons with Developmental Disabilities and the College Savings Plan Board for the state. Ryan previously spent six years as a volunteer board member for Wispact. Outside of work, Ryan serves as a wrestling referee and enjoys performing music. Ryan resides in the Madison area with his wife and two daughters.
Andrew Charles
(Financial Advisor)
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Beyond numbers and charts, I enjoy creating art, fishing for muskie, biking, rollerblading, and an array of other outdoor activities. I hope to learn your wants, needs, desires – as well as your interests & hobbies – to help ensure your family is secure, with a gameplan to navigate any situation.
Katie Myers
(Insurance – Property & Life)
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We help our customers with home, auto, business, life and disability insurance as well as financial planning services. Personally, I spent 7 years prior to my insurance career working with adults and children of differing abilities in group homes, foster care and school settings. I have a deep understanding of the challenges this community faces with a passion to help. I believe every person should be empowered to make all decisions they are capable of making. My team and I would love to partner with you to make sure your family is fully protected.
Mark Disrud
(Group & Individual Insurance & Benefits Independent Broker)
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In addition to my business clientele, I also dedicate my services to personal clients, offering Life Insurance and Disability Insurance planning tailored to meet their unique needs. My long-standing collaboration with Highland Capital Brokerage in Brookfield, WI, has enabled me to ensure that my clients receive the best possible life and disability policies, taking into account their individual medical underwriting circumstances.
On a personal note, I am a proud parent of twin boys, Billy and Brian. Billy resides in Madison, while Brian, who has Autism and is Developmentally Disabled, actively engages with MTILP, Inc., where he benefits from the support of a job coach. My deep involvement with MTILP, Inc. spans 20 years, during which I have served as a Board Member. This role has provided me with invaluable insights into the daily challenges faced by families with special needs dependents, fueling my commitment to making a positive impact both professionally and personally.
My professional journey is driven by a passion for helping others, whether through my insurance brokerage services or my advocacy for special needs families. As a dedicated community member and industry professional, I strive to bring peace of mind and security to the lives of those I serve.
Barbara Schlaefer
Employee Benefits Advisor I Health Rosetta Certified Advisor
The above philosophy is the foundation
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Throughout Barbara’s career, she has challenged the status-quo and strives to embrace new solutions to make employer’s lives easier. She doesn’t consider herself a typical benefits advisor and will look outside her bubble to bring fresh solutions.
When Barbara is not at work, she enjoys the outdoor life and can plan a challenging hike for you on woodland or rocky trails or meet you at the river’s edge with her kayak.
Cindy Kiley-Craig
(Medicare/Medicaid/SSI/SSDI/Life Insurance)
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She specializes in Medicare and health insurance for folks under 65.
Cindy goes the extra mile to help people understand their benefits. For Social Security beneficiaries, what’s the difference between SSI and SSDI? How do you qualify for Medicaid? What financial assistance do you qualify for? How does SeniorCare work?
Tracey Halsted
(Medicaid/Medicare/SSI/SSDI)
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On the personal side of life, I live in Beaver Dam with my husband Tim and Goldendoodle, JJ Jones. I have two children and three stepchildren who live in Wisconsin, Chicago, Denver, and Phoenix. I I enjoy attending fitness classes at the YMCA, playing tennis and spending time at my second home in Magnolia, Texas when my schedule permits.
Heather Holy
(Advance Funeral Planning Consultant and Aftercare Specialist)
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After high school, she moved to the Lake Wisconsin area and now resides in Poynette with her son Jackson, a freshman in Lodi. Summers are spent enjoying life by the lake, while in the winter, Heather prefers to travel to warmer destinations.
Ten years ago, Heather was drawn to the funeral service industry when an opportunity presented itself, inspired by the profound impact her family’s funeral director in Mt. Horeb had on her during a difficult time. This experience sparked a desire to learn more and help others during similarly challenging moments.
Sara Strassman
(Consumer Banking)
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When I’m not helping people achieve their financial goals, you can find me watching hockey, playing any of the Legend of Zelda video games, or putting together Lego sets to add to my extensive collection.
If you’re looking for someone to help craft a financial plan or want to just simplify your finances, I am here to help. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you may have, and I would be more than pleased to help in any way that I can.
Rebecca Unverzagt
Banking Center Manager
Rebecca Unverzagt (she/her) is a disabled Banking Center Manager for Old National Bank, where she serves as the Market Co-Lead for the Wisconsin chapter of the Abilities First Impact Network.
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She is also a student pursuing a degree in organizational leadership and education with a focus on inclusivity in learning and business. Rebecca is passionate about educating others on the power and benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace, as well as acceptance of all disabilities, both visible and invisible. In her free time, Rebecca enjoys gaming with her partner, watching sports (most of all hockey), attending live concerts, and spoiling her pets.
Erin Johansen
Daily Money Manager
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I often works with seniors, but clients can also include people with disabilities, busy professionals and high net-worth individuals – essentially, anyone who no longer wants to handle their day-to-day household financial tasks alone. Erin is a member of the American Association of Daily Money Managers.
I have decades of business experience, including in the insurance and real estate industries, as well as expertise in communications, public relations and journalism. I’m determined, curious, and a strong communicator, all qualities that serve my clients. In my role as a Daily Money Manager, I often works as part of a client’s professional care team and with family members. While paying bills and helping with daily finances, I watch for and can investigate charges that appear fraudulent or inaccurate. I’m patient and empathetic and brings a warm sense of humor to her work. Daily financial tasks can quickly become overwhelming, and I want to help ease that stress for my clients.
In my free time, I like to read, travel, see live music and am part of the volunteer team that puts on the annual Sugar Maple Music Festival in Madison.
Ali Kane
(Realtor)
I’m Ali Kane—known as AliKane in both personal and professional circles—and I’ve been a Realtor with Stark Company Realtors since 2012.
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I began my real estate career after graduating from UW-Madison with a degree in Entomology from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, working alongside my mother, JoAnn, to help individuals and families find their dream homes across South Central Wisconsin.
I live on the East side of Madison with my husband and our two dogs. Outside of real estate, I’ve been passionate about ultimate frisbee since 2007 and proudly serve as the Official Realtor for the Madison Radicals. For over 12 years, I’ve also been actively involved with Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, advocating for affordable housing and building stronger communities.
Every day, whether I’m guiding clients, supporting community initiatives, or enjoying a frisbee game, I’m driven by purpose and the commitment to make a positive impact.
Ashley Malinowski
(Realtor)
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I am a firm believer in the ‘golden rule’ of treating others the way I would want to be treated. No matter the circumstances you may be facing that have brought you here, I look forward to creating a customized game plan to achieve the goals you have in mind and getting your questions answered based on experience, facts, and local market data. (Restaino)
Cheri Hjerstedt
(Realtor)
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Buying or selling a home is like fitting all the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle together in just the right way within a specific timeframe. This can be challenging, but when one of the puzzle pieces is accommodating special needs–it can seem daunting. Growing up with a brother with special needs, I was acutely aware of the challenges our family faced. My mission became clear: to enhance his life and support others like us.
Following our mother’s passing, my brother came to live with my family, reinforcing my dedication to easing the home search process for clients facing similar challenges. I approach real estate with a compassionate, hands-on approach, understanding that a house is more than mere bricks and mortar—it’s a home where families thrive. Together, we’ll navigate the journey to homeownership, weather the inevitable bumps along the way, and find THE home for your unique family!
As a Realtor®, I advocate for accessibility, awareness, and understanding. I’ve earned At Home with Diversity and Pricing Strategy Advisor certifications equipping me to better serve clients’ needs. I’ve chaired the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for RASCW and actively contribute to the Home Buyer’s Round Table Education Committee, supporting first-time homebuyers and those with exceptional needs.
Prior to real estate, I spent 30 years teaching Spanish and English at the middle and high school levels. My diverse background includes roles as a Bilingual Police Clerk, Spanish Translator, Migrant ESL Educator, stay-at-home Grammy, and assistant manager of an outdoor movie theater. These experiences have shaped me into the compassionate professional I am today.
My life’s journey has prepared me to assist families with “special” housing needs, and I’m eager to earn your trust as we embark on this important chapter together!
Lee Kampa
(Mortgage Advisor)
True North Team powered by Nations Lending.
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Laura Stanfield
(Mortgage Advisor)
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Specialties: 1st time homebuyer, WHEDA, Veteran, USDA, FHA, Jumbo, Physician and Construction programs. We have something for everyone! I am very involved in the local Community through the Realtor’s Association of Southcentral Wisconsin, Home Buyer’s Round Table, Wisconsin Women Entrepreneurs, Lions and other local, community, housing and business focused organizations.
For more information about Wintrust Mortage visit us here.
Rob Miller
(Mortgage Advisor)
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in life, and Rob and his team are dedicated to making it as smooth and enjoyable as possible from start to finish.
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With over 20 years of experience as a Branch Manager and Senior Loan Officer at ProVisor, Inc., Rob has been helping clients navigate the mortgage process with ease. Based in South Central Wisconsin, Rob works with clients across the Midwest and several other states, focusing on making the loan process simple, understandable, and as stress-free as possible.
Education is a big part of Rob’s approach. He believes that when buyers are well-informed, they feel more confident and prepared. Rob takes the time to walk through each step, ensuring his clients understand their options and feel comfortable throughout the process. He’s all about clear communication and treating each situation individually. Since everything is handled locally in Wisconsin, decisions are made quickly, and closings happen on time.
Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in life, and Rob and his team are here to make sure it goes smoothly, from start to finish.
Christina Nahale
(Residential Cleaning & Organizing)
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My passion for helping people extends beyond surface-level cleanliness; it’s about creating a space where families can thrive. Through meticulous attention to detail and a genuine desire to make a difference, I forge deep connections with my clients, often seeing them as an extension of my own family.
In every home I enter, I see an opportunity to improve lives, whether it’s through a sparkling clean kitchen or a listening ear. My commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to service ensure that each client receives not just a cleaning, but an experience that enriches their lives in ways both big and small.
Kyle Davies
(Handyman Services)
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As the General Manger of one of Madison’s longest standing remodeling companies, W.E. Davies & Sons Remodeling, Kyle and his brother Tyler also oversee their handyman divison. W.E. Davies & Sons Handyman Services, offers help and assistance to those in need of smaller repairs and fixes. Whether it be cleaning your gutters out before winter, unveiling patio furniture in the spring/summer months, or installing grab bars and handrails for safety, they truly want to help homeowners stay in their home hassle free.
Wynn Davies
(Residential Remodeling)
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His mission is not only to transform homes, but also to educate the public on how to hire contractors wisely. With 48 years of experience under our belt, our mission at W. E. Davies & Sons Remodeling is to deliver a top-notch remodeling experience while ensuring transparency, quality, and client satisfaction every step of the way.
As a member of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) for over 30 years, past president of our local chapter, and chairperson of the ethics committee, we are committed to educating the public and firmly believe that an informed client is the cornerstone of a successful project.
When I’m not immersed in the world of remodeling, you’ll often find me embracing my passion for triathlons. As an avid triathlete, I thrive on pushing my limits, both physically and mentally, and relish the exhilarating rush of crossing the finish line. The discipline, resilience, and focus cultivated through triathlon training translate seamlessly into my approach to work, driving me to continually strive for excellence.
Nate Auping
(Electrician)
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Stephen Lange
(Residential Painter)
Founded in 2020, Lange’s is a family-owned company led by brothers Bernie and Stephen, who grew up on the west side of Madison.
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Their shared upbringing and strong ties to the community have shaped the company’s values and mission.
Experience “The Lange’s Way.” At Lange’s Painting, our mission is to simplify the lives of our clients by delivering superior quality painting services that combine performance with value. We strive to establish lasting relationships with our customers by exceeding their expectations and gaining their trust through exceptional communication and ethical standards. We are dedicated to offering meticulous attention to detail and quality control, ensuring that we enhance the look and feel of every project Lange’s Painting completes.
We are a full service painting contractor. Our list of services include: Painting, staining, trim painting, brick painting, patio sealing, clear coating, garage epoxy, drywall repair, wallpaper removal & installation, cabinet refinishing, and linear footage coatings in our prefinishing shop.
When we are not painting you can find us: Spending time with our family, friends and the golf course.
Paul Grant
(Residential House Cleaning)
Paul Grant is the dedicated President and owner of The Maids in Wisconsin, a professional cleaning service with offices in both Milwaukee and Madison.
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For almost 20 years, Paul has been passionate about helping families reclaim their time and focus on what matters most—each other. His team specializes in providing thorough and reliable cleaning solutions that create healthier, happier living spaces and ease the daily burdens of maintaining a home.
Paul’s Wisconsin roots run deep. A graduate of UW-Madison with a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, he also earned an Executive MBA from UW-Milwaukee. Before focusing full-time on growing The Maids franchise businesses, Paul spent 30 years in the telecommunications industry. Since retiring, he has channeled his energy into building a business that treats customers like family, ensuring every home they serve is left spotless and welcoming.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys the outdoors with his loyal dog, Rocky, and can often be found fishing, playing basketball, or cheering on his favorite football team. Go Pack Go! Through his work and life, Paul demonstrates a deep commitment to supporting families in Wisconsin, offering them not just clean homes but also peace of mind.
To learn more about The Maids of Madison and their services, visit their website here.
Christine Savides
(Advocacy & Respite)
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Brandon Tracy
(Martial Arts & Advocacy)
Our Mission: Superhero Martial Arts promotes Self-Empowerment & Life Skills for individuals with special needs through an adaptive martial arts program.
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Our students range in age from 4 to adults. We enjoy working with various ability levels. Many of our students benefit from training in an adaptive martial arts program. Instructors build and modify each student’s curriculum to accommodate student and parent goals. We can accommodate the special needs of any student.
Equability
(Adaptive Clothing)
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Ariel Schneider
(Austism Therapy)
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Franklin Rabideau
Enrolled Agent (EA) and Tax Preparer
Franklin is an Enrolled Agent (EA) and tax preparer passionate about taxpayer advocacy and tax debt resolution.
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Pam Beron
(Certified Disability Life Quality Coach)
Pam is the founder of Highest Potential Pathways, an avid reader, enjoys the outdoors, and puts a whole lot of creamer into her morning coffee. She’s the lone female in the house with a husband, two little boys, and their dog, Ranger.
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David Cook
(Mobilty Works – Territory Manager)
Our mission is what drives us to assist our clients in mobility so they can Be There for routine daily activities and special life events.
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We do this by training our team to listen to our clients’ unique needs to fit them with the best mobility solutions, by maintaining the largest inventory in the nation of wheelchair accessible vehicles, by certifying our service teams and by making the products and services we offer accessible to everyone through our 90+ locations and nationwide Buy Now program. Please reach out to David directly at 262-314-4844.
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