Kelly’s role with RCAW involves oversight of the Wisconsin Respite Care Registry, technical support for the National Respite Care Provider Training program, data collection and documentation, policies and procedures, and liability and risk analysis.
Kelly completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation. During these years, she was a direct support professional providing care for individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities. She also interned in the Life Enrichment department at a skilled nursing facility.
Kelly then obtained a Juris Doctor degree from Marquette University in 2015. Since graduating, she has worked as an attorney in bankruptcy and healthcare settings.
However, due to her mother’s diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s, Kelly stepped away from legal life to spend more time with her family. While enjoying time with her mother, she also gives her father, her mother’s primary caregiver, some much-needed respite time. This firsthand experience has shown Kelly the importance of and need for access to respite care for caregivers.
When she is not working or spending time with her parents, Kelly enjoys being with her husband and two rescue dogs. She also likes to travel, read, and attend as many concerts as possible.