The People Powering ASPPIRE

Jennie Brandenburg
jbrandenburg@asppire.org
Read Bio
Jennie Brandenburg is the Director of ASPPIRE of Mid-Michigan, where she leads organizational growth and community partnerships. Jennie brings more than 15 years of experience in employment services, 10 years in the disability field, and 18 years working in nonprofit organizations, including seven years supporting statewide initiatives through the Michigan Department of Education – Office of Special Education. Jennie holds a Bachelor of Science in Community Development and Community Services from Central Michigan University. She has completed the Community Employment Services training with an emphasis on Customized Employment through Griffin-Hammis Associates, as well as the Global Career Development Facilitator training. Her leadership is grounded in advocacy, collaboration, and a lifelong commitment to building a more inclusive world. Outside of work, Jennie enjoys traveling to national parks, hiking, reading, and cooking. She lives in Dimondale with her husband, daughter, son, dog, and two cats.

Olivia Beckman
obeckman@asppire.org
Read Bio
Olivia Beckman is a Case Manager at ASPPIRE of Mid-Michigan, where she is dedicated to holistically promoting the goals of the individuals she serves. As a lifelong Michigan resident, Olivia connected with ASPPIRE as a volunteer in 2021, developing her deep passion for supporting people with disabilities. Olivia brings a unique perspective to her role, holding a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Michigan State University. By combining her background in healthcare and scientific research with practiced advocacy, she brought ASPPIRE’s case management program to life. Outside of work, you can expect to find Olivia traveling, salsa dancing, or reading a good book.

Sarah Sleeper
ssleeper@asppire.org
Read Bio
Sarah graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree with a focus in Criminal Justice from Baker College. Sarah has worked for non-profit organizations for 2 years. She has experience as a case manager and working with multiple families within the community. Sarah was born and raised in Michigan (Flushing) and currently resides in East Lansing. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out her husband and two boys, and spending time outside.

Katie Woerderhoff
katiew@asppire.org
Read Bio
Katie Woerdehoff is an Employment Specialist at ASPPIRE of Mid-Michigan, where she provides vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with diverse disabilities. Since joining ASPPIRE in 2021, she has served in multiple roles, including intern, job coach, facilitator, and Participant Coordinator. Katie holds a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Michigan State University. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC). Katie develops and leads social coaching curricula on self-advocacy, emotional regulation, and workplace communication for neurodivergent populations. Her approach emphasizes empowerment, inclusion, and skill-building for long-term independence and success. Outside of work, Katie enjoys creating art, going on walks, and spending time with her cats.

Aileen Hecht
ahecht@asppire.org
Read Bio
Aileen lives in Lansing with her husband and two children. She was diagnosed with autism at age 28. Aileen graduated from Baker College in 2009 with a degree in Business Management concentrated in Accounting and has worked for ASPPIRE since 2012. As a previous participant, she relates well to others in the program and acts as a peer mentor in various capacities. In her spare time, Aileen enjoys reading, swimming, socializing, and spending time with her cat.

Linda Reynolds
lreynolds@asppire.org
Read Bio
Linda Reynolds serves as Financial Analyst at ASPPIRE, bringing 40 years of experience in office management, accounting and analyzing financial transactions. With a background in accounting, she is passionate about balancing the books, creating fair and smoother procedures while focusing on ASPPIRE’s mission to help adults with disabilities. In their current role, Linda focuses on invoicing, financial reporting, payroll and budgeting. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, paddle boarding, game nights and especially grandkids, which helps bring a well-rounded perspective to their work.



