Leadership & Staff

Katie Litanga joined Jewish Family & Career Services in 2025 and serves as the agency’s Chief Operating Officer.

Katie has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 17 years, with experience spanning direct case management, program design, and organizational management. Her work has supported initiatives in immigrant and refugee services, affordable housing, mental health, aging, and community development - both locally in Louisville and at the national level. Prior to joining JFCS, she led a national team at Church World Service coordinating technical assistance and program quality efforts for case management and specialized services.

Katie received an MA in international development from Ohio University and a BA in anthropology from the University of Louisville. When she’s not working, she enjoys hiking, stargazing, and adventuring with her family, and their dog, Lola.

David L. Finke, Ph.D., is a community professional with 26 years of experience in clinical psychology and administrative management. David joined JFCS as our Chief Executive Officer in September 2021, coming to us from Bellewood & Brooklawn (formerly Uspiritus), a residential treatment facility, where he served as vice president of residential programming.

Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Dr. Finke graduated from Washington University in St. Louis and Michigan State University, where he earned his Ph.D. in clinical psychology. He has been in private practice since 1995. In addition to his work at Jewish Family and Career Services, he co-chairs the Bounce Coalition, a multi-agency community collaborative that implements trauma-informed practices in schools, courts, health care systems and other public and private sector agencies.

David and his wife live in Louisville and have three sons.

Email David at dfinke@jfcslouisville.org.

Lyndy Alexander, Chief Financial Officer, has made the primary focus of her career finance and administration in a non-profit environment, with the beginning of her career in public accounting and industry.  Lyndy is a native of Columbus, Ohio, with a bachelor’s degree from Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts and an M.B.A. in Accounting from New York University.  Lyndy resides in Louisville and has two grown sons.

Email Lyndy at lalexander@jfcslouisville.org.

Mauri Malka is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and serves on the executive leadership team at JFCS as the Senior Director of Programs. She holds a master's degree from the University of Louisville, Kent School of Social Work. Mauri has over forty years of social service experience, working with people of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds.

In her thirty-plus years at JFCS, Mauri has worked in a variety of roles, including serving as the clinical resettlement coordinator, therapist, older adult director, family services director and more recently in an executive leadership position. Her early years with JFCS involved coordination and implementation of resettlement services for refugees. Her clinical practice has focused on cross-cultural issues, geriatric issues, grief and loss, couples counseling and family caregiver concerns. Mauri has facilitated support groups and delivered training to family caregivers for over two decades. Her work with individuals utilizes a strength-based approach that builds on competencies.

Mauri was instrumental in developing a one-stop senior program at JFCS that offers a full menu of services to seniors and their families, including transportation and non-medical homecare. Recent initiatives include the establishment of psychiatric services for individuals from youth to older adults and family strengthening programs that promote school stability and stable housing for families with children.

Email Mauri at mmalka@jfcslouisville.org.

Courtney Evans is the Director of Advancement at JFCS and started in her role January 2022. Courtney is originally from Lexington and went to school at the University of Kentucky, receiving a BA in International Studies with a focus on International Development in Latin America. After completing her undergraduate degree, she received an MS in International Development from Tulane University and completed various internships focused on human rights research. After completing her masters Courtney went on to serve as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ecuador as a Community and Youth Development Strategist. She moved back to Lexington where she was the Global Partnerships Director at Mission108, a small anti-human trafficking nonprofit doing advocacy, fundraising, and outreach. She then moved to Massachusetts to work as the Regional Program Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass and Metrowest; before leaving Massachusetts, she was the Director of Operations at the organization.

Courtney is excited to be at JFCS because of the opportunities for growth and the community and client centered approach to service. JFCS’ holistic approach to service is what sets us apart. In her free time Courtney likes to travel, play bingo, watch and play sports, spend time with her pup and explore Louisville!

Email Courtney at cevans@jfcslouisville.org.

Valecia joined Jewish Family & Career Services (JFCS) in May 2021 as Director of Navigate, moving into the nonprofit sector after enjoying a rewarding career in the news publishing industry with Gannett Co. Inc/USA TODAY.   In this role, Valecia is responsible for providing business planning services and microlending opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners in marginalized communities.

Valecia, holding both regional and national roles during her news publishing career, was recognized as an industry expert in consumer marketing, sales, and operations, achieving consistent levels of top-line circulation revenue. Her leadership successes were reflected in multiple industry roles, including President of the Newspaper Association of America (NAA) Circulation Federation and President of the Ohio Circulation Managers Association (OCMA).

Valecia currently serves on the board for Credit Builders Alliance (CBA) and CBA Fund, a CDFI intermediary.   She is a Community Impact Cabinet (CIC) member with Metro United Way, a role being served since 2019.  Valecia recently joined the Black L.O.V.E. Philanthropic Partnership (BLPP) as a Strategic Advisor.   She previously served in volunteer roles for CASA and AARP Kentucky Volunteer.

Valecia is a graduate of Drury University in Springfield, MO, with a degree in Business Administration, minors in Economics and Communication.   Valecia is close to her two brothers, both of whom live in Springfield, MO, where she frequently travels to visit them and friends in the area.

Email Valecia at vquinn@jfcslouisville.org.

Kathryn Cowart, LPCC-S., is a community professional with 13 years of experience in clinical counseling and administrative management. Kathryn joined JFCS as our Assistant Director of Programs in August 2022, coming to us from Seven Counties Services, Inc.’s Child and Family West office, a community mental health office serving the West End community of Louisville, where she served as a clinical and program supervisor. In May 2025, Kathryn was promoted to the Chief Program Officer role and oversees all the programs at Jewish Family & Career Services.

Originally from Northern Kentucky, Kathryn graduated from Loyola University Chicago and The University of Louisville, where she earned her Master’s Degree in clinical counseling with a concentration in Art Therapy. She has been in private practice since 2021. In addition to her work at Seven Counties Services, Inc., Kathryn, worked at Bellewood & Brooklawn (formerly Uspiritus) for 9 years as a clinical counselor and ultimately the Clinical Director for the last 7 years she was there. Kathryn’s clinical background includes work with children through adults on a variety of mental health concerns, diagnoses, needs, and trauma history. Her primary goal in providing mental health services to the community and clients that she serves is to assist clients in achieving their greatest autonomy and self-actualization in their daily lives. Kathryn has 8 years of experience in supervising and managing clinically based teams both in a residential and community mental health-based settings. Additionally, she provides clinical supervision for clinicians with their LPCA working towards their LPCC in the state of Kentucky.

Kathryn and her husband live in Louisville and have a son, two cats, and a dog.

Email Kathryn at kcowart@jfcslouisville.org.

Lauren joined the JFCS team in 2021 as the Executive Assistant. With extensive experience as an Executive Assistant, working with amazing CEOs and Boards of Directors over the years, she feels as though she has found her home at JFCS. Her positive and warm demeanor dovetails her role as a liaison between the executive team and the Board of Directors, as well as a general multitasker extraordinaire.

Lauren has a great partner and son, who loves to laugh as much as she does. She revels in making lists, creating art, pen-palling and listening to podcasts.

I feel and see JFCS's values at work and in-action every single day that I am here. Our guiding principles and values sincerely matter to me and they radiate through our entire staff. I am genuinely proud to say I work at JFCS. It is an honor to work alongside such a giving, mission-driven group of people. From direct-care providers to admin staff, to our dedicated Board of Directors. We all come together to serve others and do our part to repair the world.

Email Lauren at lkelty@jfcslouisville.org.

Weeraphorn Kopp is the Director of Finance and has been with JFCS since 2012. She received an MBA from Xavier University and a BBA from Assumption University in Bangkok, Thailand. Most of her career has been spent working for nonprofit organizations.

When not at work, Weeraphorn enjoys spending time with her family. She especially loves watching her daughters play field hockey, watching Netflix and walking.

Email Weeraphorn at wkopp@jfcslouisville.org.

Heather Valsan is a graduate of Grand Canyon University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing. She has a wealth of experience in the healthcare field, having previously worked as a registered nurse in mental health and addiction settings. Heather truly believes that taking care of our mental well-being is essential for living our happiest lives, and she has enjoyed working with people of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

In 2025, Heather joined the JFCS family as a receptionist. If you give us a call, she will likely be one of the first people you speak to. Heather finds joy in discovering little ways to support clients and staff because she knows that even the smallest gestures can make a big impact.

Originally from St. Louis, Heather and her husband have made Louisville their home for the past 15 years. Together, they stay busy raising two wonderful kids along with a few playful cats! You will find Heather baking, going for walks, or diving into her latest creative projects when she's not at work.

Meredith Martin is our Revenue Associate.  Meredith’s experience has been focused on accounts receivable, billing and office coordination.

When not at work, Meredith enjoys spending time with her family, especially her children. She loves watching movies and listening to all different types of music and playing it as loud as she can.

Bonnie Lewis holds the current record for longest-serving JFCS staff member, at over 31 years! As our Senior Accounting Clerk, Bonnie has over 21 years of experience and knowledge in Accounts Receivable and over 11 years' experience in Accounts Payable. Her extensive experience has made her the backbone of the finance team.

Email Bonnie at blewis@jfcslouisville.org.

Amelia Grady is the JFCS Office Administrator and HR Coordinator and has been with us since 2018. An integral part of the Administrative Team, Amelia helps keep our staff supported and ensures they have everything they need to successfully serve our clients. She’s also responsible for maintaining our building operations and seems to do a little bit of everything to ensure that JFCS is able to meet the needs of the community.

In her spare time, Amelia loves to cross-stitch and bake. She enjoys puzzles, pranks and spending time with her family and her cat, Ferguson.

Email Amelia at agrady@jfcslouisville.org.

Jeffrey Brown joined JFCS in October 2022. Working in child welfare for almost 30 years, he brings his vast experience to JFCS as our Intake Coordinator. A graduate of Western Kentucky University, he spent almost 22 years at Brooklawn as their Director of Admissions, as well as working as a Discharge Planner and Youth Care Worker for a children’s psychiatric hospital in Owensboro, KY. He also worked at the Salvation Army in their adult homeless lodge. Jeffrey has worked in a variety of settings, such as inpatient, community-based, partial hospital and residential, and has supervised staff in various capacities.

Besides his extensive experience, Jeffrey has been involved with martial arts for over 20 years and teaches yoga. He enjoys music, reading and traveling, especially spending time in the Caribbean with his girlfriend.

Email Jeffrey at jbrown@jfcslouisville.org.

Caleb Goldberg joined JFCS in October 2022 as our Data Analyst, working across teams to manage agency databases and provide analysis to help further our programs and mission. He also writes and compiles the monthly JFCS newsletter and is involved with many of our organization’s written communications.

Caleb graduated from Earlham College with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2022. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, making animated videos, and walking through nature.

Email Caleb at cgoldberg@jfcslouisville.org.

Jessica, our Program Evaluator, is grateful to have been with JFCS since 2018. After graduating from the University of Kentucky with a degree in sociology, she worked for several years in a family business until realizing her passion was in nonprofit work. This realization has contributed greatly to the strength of purpose and tenacity that drives her efforts to support JCFS daily through administrative support of all JFCS programs, while promoting and furthering their mission.

In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, bowling and entertaining.  Jessica relishes time spent cheering on her beloved Wildcats, and spending time with friends, family and her husband Tony.

Email Jessica at jholloway@jfcslouisville.org.

Dr. Brittany Bess is a clinical psychologist who received her master’s and doctorate in clinical health psychology from Virginia State University. She has a background in working with children, adolescents, and their families who have experienced single or ongoing traumatic events and systemic barriers that may influence developmental delays, behavioral concerns, and/or mood disorders.

While at JFCS, Dr. Bess takes a collaborative, warm, and client-centered approach to offering culturally sensitive, trauma-informed therapy to individuals and families across the lifespan. She also provides court-ordered psychological assessments for families involved in the child welfare system in Jefferson County and N-648 assessments in support of refugees and immigrants who are in the process of taking their naturalization exam to gain citizenship in the US.

In her free time, Dr. Bess enjoys reading historical fiction and sci-fi novels, playing video games, and wandering around various parks and museums in the city.

Isabelle is a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate who graduated from the University of Louisville with her Master of Science in Couple and Family Therapy in May of 2024. Originally from Kentucky, Isabelle and her family moved back to Louisville in 2021 after a decade of living in Washington, D.C. She joined JFCS as a student therapist in 2022 and, upon graduation, she shifted into a full-time role on the clinical team.

Before becoming a therapist, Isabelle started her career with Teach for America and spent fifteen years working in public education. In addition to her degree from UofL, Isabelle also has a Master of Science in Public Policy & Management from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor of Science in International Business from St. Louis University.

In alignment with her experience working in public schools, Isabelle believes that every person has the inherent ability to grow and heal throughout their life and deserves to have support as they do so! Her areas of focus include working with couples and families that are seeking to cultivate stronger connections in their relationships, as well as individuals that are navigating challenges tied to trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and significant life transitions.

Isabelle currently works with couples, families, children, and adults of all ages, and she utilizes techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Structural Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

In her free time, Isabelle loves spending time with her husband, children, and cats, as well as gardening, reading, painting, and traveling to France to visit family when possible (as a proud Franco-American!).

Courtney Albers, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who joined JFCS in January 2023. She also serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Louisville, where she earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2022.

Dr. Albers has been honored for her contributions to psychiatric mental health nursing, receiving the President's Volunteer Service Award from the President of the United States and recognition as a Board of Director Scholar by the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Recognized as a distinguished Master Psychopharmacologist by the Neuroscience Education Institute, Dr. Albers has made significant contributions to psychiatric mental health through numerous quality improvement projects, presentations, and publications. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and the Kentucky Association for Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Midwives, actively advocating for improved access to patient care at the local and state levels. Dr. Albers is committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive, and evidence-based psychiatric care across the lifespan.

Kate Dennis, LCSW, M.Ed, joined JFCS in November of 2024. She brings fourteen years of experience working as an advocate and therapist in a variety of Louisville’s non-profit organizations, with most recent employment being in private practice. Kate received her MSSW from the UofL’s Kent School of Social Work and her M.Ed. in Clinical Counseling with a concentration in Art Therapy from UofL as well.

Kate enjoys working with individuals and families across the lifespan on challenges pertinent to trauma, adverse life experiences, navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Using a Humanistic philosophy, Kate believes that clients are the experts on their journey and that a compassionate, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship is essential for healing and growth. Kate utilizes an eclectic and collaborative approach to therapy in order to support clients on their path to self-actualization.

Kate lives in Louisville with her partner and three cats. In her free time, Kate enjoys traveling, going to concerts, shopping local, and reading.

Jennifer Hartman is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor. She has a background in various non-profits and community-based mental health organizations in addition to private practice. Jennifer works with adolescents, adult individuals, and couples. She is especially passionate about working with perinatal mental health needs and offering parenting support as a certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational challenges, and life transitions. Her therapeutic work is collaborative, trauma-informed, and neurodivergent affirming. She believes every individual has the right to dignity and respect. Jennifer is intentional to honor diverse cultural backgrounds and believes that everyone is the expert of their own experiences.

Jennifer grew up in England and was engaged in non-profit work serving refugees and asylum seekers before moving to South Korea as a teacher of English as a Second Language. Since moving to Kentucky, she completed a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lindsey Wilson College. She is an avid fiction reader, enjoys upcycling, macrame, and traveling with her family.

Dr. Sarah Roos is a clinical psychologist and has been with JCFS Louisville since January 2022. She received her masters and doctorate degrees in clinical psychology from Wheaton College with an emphasis on child and adolescent treatment and trauma-informed care.

At JFCS, Dr. Roos provides court ordered parenting strengths and needs assessments for individuals involved in the child welfare system in Jefferson County. She also offers therapy for individuals and families across the lifespan with a focus on trauma and adverse life events, relational challenges, mood disorders, and behavior/conduct concerns.

In her free time, Dr. Roos enjoys hiking with her dog, traveling to new places, reading a good fiction book, and watching movies.

Email Sarah at sroos@jfcslouisville.org.

Naomi earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Social Work from Spalding University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and holds a certification in Perinatal Mental Health.

With over 14 years of experience in the field, Naomi provides compassionate, client-centered care to individuals, couples, and families. Her practice is rooted in a trauma-informed perspective and guided by a deep respect for each person's unique experiences and strengths. She draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches to support clients facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges.

In addition to her broad clinical background, Naomi has a special focus on supporting birthing people through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Her work in perinatal mental health reflects her commitment to offering informed, empathetic care during this significant life stage. Naomi believes in creating a collaborative, supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered. She is dedicated to walking alongside each client at their own pace, offering guidance and steady support as they work toward healing and growth.

Email Naomi at ncarrico@jfcslouisville.org.

Melissa Roth brings more than 18 years of experience providing both individual and group counseling in various settings. Melissa joined Jewish Family & Career Services as a therapist in December 2020 after moving to Louisville from Chicago, IL.  There she supported students, families, and staff as a social worker in a high-performing middle school. Melissa helped lead a district-wide transformation to Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS), a philosophy that resulted in new classroom management styles, improved school culture, and reduced disciplinary incidents. Melissa earned a Master’s in Social Work from The Jane Addams College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago in 1999 and a Bachelor of Arts in 1997 from the University of Denver in Colorado. In her free time, Melissa enjoys playing tennis and spending time outside with her husband and two children.

Email Melissa at mroth@jfcslouisville.org.

Paul Troy joined Jewish Family and Career Services as the Senior Crime Victim Advocate in October of 2022. Paul comes to JFCS with 20 years of experience in the field of victim advocacy; with nearly half of that time spent serving the seniors of Jefferson County. In addition to his time working directly with clients, Paul has presented extensively at national, regional, and state-wide conferences on topics like elder abuse, scam prevention, serving victim-defendants, and safety planning.

The Senior Crime Victim Advocacy program at JFCS reduces the barriers that seniors face when accessing the legal justice system.  By providing court advocacy, safety planning, information, referrals, and case management we help adults, 60 and older, in Jefferson County who have experienced crimes like:  financial exploitation, abuse, domestic violence, sexual abuse, robbery, burglary, or caregiver neglect.

Paul enjoys the supportive and collaborative environment at JFCS and is happy to be a part of the team. The father of triplets, when he’s not working he enjoys spending time with his family, watching Jeopardy, and listening to music.

Email Paul at ptroy@jfcslouisville.org.

Whitney joined JFCS in February 2024 as the KOA Programs Coordinator. She works in underserved senior housing, focusing on increasing socialization and activity opportunities.

Originally from Owensboro, KY, she lived in Portland, OR, before moving to Louisville in 2006.  She previously worked in nonprofit at the Kentucky Science Center and most recently was an academic advisor with Academic Partnerships. She graduated with a bachelor's degree from the University of Evansville and earned her M.Litt from the University of St. Andrews.

In her spare time Whitney enjoys going to concerts, knitting, cooking, and playing with her son and their dog, Greg.

Phaedra King has a Master’s Degree in education from the University of Louisville and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern Kentucky University.

Phaedra has served on the boards of several non-profits including board secretary for Hand in Hand Ministries and board president for Adoption Awareness Alliance.

She began her tenure at JFCS in May 2024, as Homecare Director, where she will coordinate JFCS’ Homecare (non-medical) program.  This program offers personal care and grooming, meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, medication reminders, respite, companionship and socialization. A comprehensive assessment is completed and a care plan is established to support safety and comfort in your preferred living situation.

Before coming to JFCS, Phaedra worked as Education Program Coordinator for Southern Indiana REALTORS Association.

Emry Schneeweis is a dedicated social work professional who recently graduated from Western Carolina University with a master’s degree in social work. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Emry brings a compassionate and proactive approach to the field, particularly in working with older adults.

With hands on experience in enriching and improving the lives of seniors, Emry is committed to making a meaningful impact in the community. Driven by a deep-seated passion for service, Emry strives to enhance the well-being and quality of life for those she serves. Emry’s role at JFCS includes working with older adults to provide case management, family/individual therapy, and group facilitation.

Madisyn Morris is a community-driven individual looking to make a positive impact on the world at large! Formerly the service coordinator at a senior housing facility, Madisyn is now our Geriatric Care Coordinator. With a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and a minor in Gender and Women's Studies from Western Kentucky University, Madisyn enjoys finding the most impactful ways to uplift Louisville’s diverse senior population. This Louisville native also has passion for food justice, gardening, and cooking! Madisyn loves painting, astrology, and traveling and spending time with her fiancé, Brandon, and their feline daughter, Stella.

Holly Peters earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Eastern Kentucky University.  Originally from Dallas, Texas, Holly moved with her Family to Northern Kentucky in 1993.  She moved to Louisville after graduating from College.

Holly has worked in the Social Services field for over 17 years.  She has worked as a Case Manager on Medicaid Waivers at the Home of the Innocents, KIPDA, and as a Private Contractor.

In her spare time, Holly enjoys doing Yoga, keeping up with her favorite MLB team, the Texas Rangers, and spending time with her Husband, Daniel, Twin Daughters, Sadie & Olivia, and her 2 Dogs, Iggy & Gus.

Hannah Bradley joined JFCS in October 2022 as a Case Manager. Her work focuses on providing case management for families with children and helping parents overcome barriers and identify and set goals. Previously, Hannah worked in childcare and as an advocate for victims of domestic violence at the Center for Women and Families.

In her spare time, Hannah enjoys spending time with her children and making jewelry.

Email Hannah at hbradley@jfcslouisville.org.

Tony Messina began his journey with JFCS in December 2023 as the Individual Development Accounts (IDA) Project Coordinator.

Tony has over 4 years of experience working with international communities as an English as a Second Language instructor in both Thailand and Taiwan. Tony is also an experienced client services representative, having most recently worked with clients as a Data Experience Specialist at an energy consulting firm. He is very excited for the opportunity this role provides to make a difference in the community.

Tony also holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Notre Dame and in his free time enjoys training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, reading and writing comic books, and playing board games.

Sandee Golden joined JFCS as the Food Pantry Coordinator in December of 2019. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Social Work and has over 25 years of experience of working in Jewish Communities. Most recently, Sandee worked for Jewish Family Service in Cincinnati for 19 years, 15 of which were with the JFS Food Pantry. When Sandee moved to Louisville, she began volunteering in the JFCS Sonny & Janet Meyer Food Pantry stocking shelves and delivering food to clients. She strongly believes in equity when it comes to food and her warmth and care is evident to every client and volunteer who enters the food pantry.

Throughout her life, Sandee has lived in 13 cities and moved 36 times!

Email Sandee at sgolden@jfcslouisville.org.

Bertin Maroy is originally from the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He spent 18 years in Durban South Africa, before relocating in Louisville.  Bertin is a Career and Employment Specialist at JFCS, and previously worked as Domestic Violence Coordinator at The Center for Women and Family, advocating refugees and immigrant who are victim of domestic violence to court.

Bertin has a more than 15 years’ experience working with the refugees and immigrants in the social work fields, helping them in the different many ways like: counselling, domestic violence advocate, case worker, pastoral and many more.  He holds a bachelor’s degree in child early psychology, associate degree in trauma and counselling, and an associate degree in conflict and resolution from the University of Kwazulu Natal South Africa.  Bertin is a song writer and pastor, speaking fluently French, Swahili, Zulu, English, and Lingala.

Andrea has been with JFCS since 2010. She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Louisville and her master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and an NCHEC Certified Financial Coach. Through her years at JFCS she has worked with a variety of individuals of all ages and backgrounds, but her passion has always been working with individuals with disabilities.

Andrea believes that everyone has skills and talents, and she thrives on helping clients identify their gifts and how these gifts translate into long-term careers. To her, a career is more than just a paycheck, it's a purpose and an opportunity to realize one's true potential. When she is not working, you can find Andrea running, reading, listening to true crime podcasts or playing with her three kids.

Email Andrea at abrown@jfcslouisville.org.

Originally from a town halfway between Dayton, OH and Cincinnati, OH, Kristina has been living in Louisville for over a decade. She has been with JFCS since 2014 and services as a Career Counselor for Refugees & Immigrants. Kristina helps our new neighbors reach their educational and vocational goals in the US and empower them to take a proud part in the Louisville community.

Kristina has worked with immigrants and refugees for the last 12 years. She graduated from DePauw University with a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Spanish and a minor in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. In 2019, Kristina earned a master’s of science degree in Social Work.

In addition to cooking and trying new cuisines, Kristina loves to play piano, read, dance, hike, kayak and play with her two kitties, Meloso and Mancha.

Email Kristina at kmielke@jfcslouisville.org.

Cindy Key has over twenty years of experience as a transition strategist, career counselor/coach and executive coach.  She helps individuals from all walks of life, a vast array of industries and many countries, focus to align their skills, interests and experience, then communicate and leverage their unique value, to create new meaningful employment, find job opportunities, gain a promotion, start a business or achieve important personal goals.

Cindy is a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), Certified Business Manager (CBM), a Certified Business Coach (CBC), a Certified Personal Branding Strategist (CPBS), SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), and holds a Bachelor's Degree from Wayland Baptist University.  She is one of the founding coaches with The Institute for Career Transitions (ICT) a non-profit organization founded by Ofer Sharone, PhD. and MIT-based scholars designed to support individuals navigating challenging career transitions. Cindy joined JFCS Louisville in May 2020.

Transforming work, a job, or any situation, begins with small individual actions and connection.  Cindy’s holistic focus begins with the needs and goals of the individual.  Her experience allows her to guide with résumés, interviews, job searching, salary negotiations, labor market research, exploring careers, navigating challenging career transitions, and more depending on an individual’s goals and needs.

Email Cindy at ckey@jfcslouisville.org.

Jim Mahanes is an award-winning reporter, editor and photographer who left the world of journalism behind to pursue his passion of wanting to make a difference in his community.  In his 20+ years post-journalism, Jim has worked for non-profits in the Metro Louisville area in marketing/communications, community engagement and fund development.

Jim is a Louisville native and a graduate of Murray State University. In his free time, Jim enjoys martial arts and hold 3 different black belts.  For the past 23 years, his primary interest has been the study of Japanese Ju Jitsu.

Michelle Klecner is from Louisville and joined the JFCS team in February 2024.  She previously worked with a non-profit that funds research for Type 1 Diabetes. A graduate from the University of Kentucky in 2013 with a B.A. in Journalism, she received her MBA from Purdue Global University in 2021. In her spare time she likes to do yoga, watch movies & tv shows, eat sushi, and spending time with her wonderful husband, two kids, and four dogs, especially on Shabbat.

Kelsey Eilers is the Grants Manager at JFCS and started in their role in January of 2025. Kelsey grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, and moved to the Louisville area in 2021. Kelsey earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs, History, and French from Muskingum University. Kelsey has worked in nonprofit fundraising and philanthropy for nine years and most recently served as the Grants Manager for Bernheim Forest in Clermont, Kentucky.

Kelsey is excited to be at JFCS to continue to gain grant experience and contribute to its work to make a meaningful difference in our community. In their free time, Kelsey enjoys singing with local choral groups, reading, cooking, roller-skating, and exploring the outdoors.