We Are All Connected: Staff Spotlights

Peggy Coolehan joined Judi’s House in 2015 as our financial controller.  She is responsible for the accounting and finance functions of our organization, as well as liaising with our Finance Committee and staying on top of nonprofit best practices.

When Peggy isn’t “toiling with her spreadsheets,” she can be found weightlifting, hiking, or camping. As an avid baseball fan, she also loves to watch, listen to, and attend games. She’s a Cubs fan, but we forgive her!

“There are so many aspects of my day-to-day job that I enjoy. The most satisfying part of working at Judi’s House is knowing that every day the people around me change lives, deeply touch those in need, and help them along their grief journey.”

Darren File, Professional Research Assistant, joined the Judi’s House Evaluation and Research team on March 14, 2016, otherwise known as Pi Day (3.14); a happy coincidence for numbers folks! Darren plays a key role in data collection procedures for our therapeutic programs. As a data-driven organization, Darren captures information from client surveys that ensures our programs meet the needs of the families we serve.

In his free time, Darren is a passionate storyteller and aspiring professional author. When he isn’t working on his own projects or enjoying other writers’ works, he loves spending quality time with his two dogs, cat, other wildlife, and plant children!

“What gives me the most energy is feeling a connection to our organization’s mission and getting to work with a variety of teams where I see that mission carried out in different ways. I feel very proud to work for an organization, and especially the Evaluation and Research team, where I can see the impact of the work we’re doing directly.”

Jen Schwem, bCRE joined the Development and Communications team in 2015. As our Development Manager of Database and Strategy, Jen does a little bit of everything at Judi’s House from acknowledging donations and assisting with financial reporting to helping with events and stewarding supporters, like you!

When Jen isn’t exploring the great outdoors, she likes to travel, learn about other cultures, and read. She has been in the same book club for 24 years! Last year, using her sewing skills, Jen made beautiful homemade masks for some of our staff and families.

“Judi’s House staff are the most compassionate and dedicated bunch of human beings. I just adore my coworkers. They lift each other up, and each in their own way, make the world a better place.”