The Begin Anew Crew
Our highly skilled team leans on self-development and ethics as our keys to success.
At Begin Anew we have take pride on fast response to all referrals and going above and beyond for our unique participants. Quality over quantity is paramount to our success.
Justin McNeal
Executive Director
Justin is our fearless leader and Executive Director. He believes there is no wrong path to recovery. He has lived experience with recovery and the justice systems. He has built multiple Peer Recovery Support programs over the last 5 years that work with those seeking recovery who are justice-impacted. He has years of experience training the community and the Peer Recovery Support workforce. Justin brings deep knowledge and understanding to those seeking education, and working with justice involved participants. He is skilled at systems navigation, systems partnerships, ethics, and harm reduction.
Rhonda Schaeffer-Smith
CPRSR-FE/PRS Supervisor
Rhonda’s background as a social worker led her to a career in a hands-on supportive advocacy role. She began her career at the Women’s Minnesota Correctional Facility in Shakopee. It was there that she developed her strong organizational growth skills. She gets fulfillment from developing happy and talented employees. She enjoys working in a collaborative manner and creating a strong, supportive culture for both our peers and people in recovery. Rhonda is also in charge of all our CPRS at Begin Anew. Making sure they stay healthy and have their needs met.
Write a Title Here
This is a space to welcome visitors to the site. Grab their attention with copy that clearly states what the site is about, and add an engaging image or video.
© 2035 by Sofai Strategies
Chad Nelson
CPRS-FE
Director of Develpment
Chad Nelson comes to begin Anew with a deep personal commitment to recovery. His journey from navigating personal challenges within the justice system to becoming a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) has equipped him with unique insights into the complexities of recovery and rehabilitation. Chad is dedicated to providing certified peer recovery and mental health services, enhancing administrative operations, and fostering community outreach. A significant part of his role involves developing and training peer specialists, with a focus on inclusivity and understanding for those impacted by the justice system. Chad's ambition is for Begin Anew to set the benchmark in peer services, training excellence, and impactful community integration.
Todd Dobberstein
Office Manager/Billing
Todd is vital to Begin Anew and it's day to day operations. If you call here his warming voice will greet you and help you with any needs you may have. Todd does all our backend billing and office work. Without him we could not stay open. He got into this role when a close family member passed away from an overdose and he wanted to find a way to give back.
Derek Blakely
CPRS-FE
Derek is from the White Earth Nation, where he lives and delivers CPRS services. He has a passion for culture, staying connected to his community and establishing relationships in other communities. He is a understanding and driven individual with one goal in life, to succeed. Derek loves the outdoors, attending powwows and other cultural events. His goal in life is to help others navigate barriers and obstacles in their lives, overcome them and live a life that they desire.
Ruth Heinonen - Chair
Joe Morris - Vice Chair
Max Kuker - Treasurer
Kirk Lundmark - Secretary
Ruth York
CPRS
Ruth York, a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and Personal Empowerment Facilitator with over 30 years of experience in human service work, currently enriches Begin Anew Recovery with her dedication to guiding individuals towards their best selves. Inspired by her own recovery journey and seeking a more impactful way to support others, Ruth transitioned from managing programs for individuals with disabilities and serving as a CPR instructor, to a role where her contributions directly foster independence and wellness. Besides delivering Peer Support, Ruth runs the day to day operations for our volunteer program.
Cassandra Trimble
CPRSR-S-FE/Outreach Reentry Employment Specialist
Cassie is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. She has been working in the recovery field for a little over a year. Cassie has 4 years of long-term recovery. With a passion for those who have been through the same lived experiences she has. Cassie also makes connections with employers in the community who will work with criminal backgrounds and runs our outreach program.