SibNews is the newsletter for WisconSibs. It contains information about upcoming programs, highlights stories about siblings, opportunities to get involved as volunteers or donors and news updates relevant to siblings.
WisconSibs, Inc Welcomes Bill Grennell as New Executive Director
The WisconSibs Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Bill Grennell of Oshkosh, WI, has been chosen as the next Executive Director of WisconSibs, Inc. In this role, Bill will advance WisconSibs’ mission to foster a community of support for sisters
and brothers of individuals with disabilities and expand the organization’s reach to serve more siblings throughout Wisconsin.
Bill comes to the organization with many years of experience in nonprofit development, leadership, and growing teams that make
a difference.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the talented and passionate WisconSibs staff, Board, and volunteers. I feel grateful for this chance to help make a difference across Wisconsin for youth and adult siblings and their families.”
Grennell began his career with the Boy Scouts of America as a Camp Director, then Field Director in Minnesota, Missouri, and California. He then served as Chapter Development Director with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California. Later, he became Executive Director of The American Red Cross-Mountain Empire Chapter in Virginia. He found his way to back to his Midwest roots as Executive Director of The Literacy Council of Rockford, IL. Most recently, he was a major gifts officer with the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, WI.
Introducing Emily Askri as WisconSibs Adult Sibling Program Coordinator
WisconSibs also welcomes Emily Askri as Adult Sibling Program Coordinator to develop and coordinate adult sibling programs, including workshops, conferences, social events, and communication with adults throughout Wisconsin who have siblings with disabilities.
For over fifteen years, Emily has been helping various non-profits, both local and national, develop programs to help people reach their fullest potential. In addition to working at WisconSibs, Emily also helps caregivers return to the workforce after taking a career break for caregiving responsibilities. Emily is a graduate of University of Wisconsin – LaCrosse.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of WisconSibs’ mission of fostering a community of support for siblings of individuals with special needs. While each person’s situation and life experiences are unique, I have seen how impactful community, and the support that comes from shared understanding, can have in people’s lives.”
When not working, you’ll find Emily with her family, enjoying hiking, biking and going “up north.”
Sheri Ramsey tells her story about assuming her brother Mark’s care; how she found resources and tips for other siblings assuming the role of caregiver for their sibling with disabilities.
Mathilde Steeneporte, shares her experience as a WisconSibs Intern.
Calendar of events for November and December 2022.
Meet Cate Ellis, a senior at UW-Oshkosh, and learn her story of struggle and triumph as a sister.
Find out what Kelly of Waterford wishes she had known before her sister with a seizure disorder was hospitalized.
Enjoy photos from SibDays of Summer and Teen Sib Leadership activities this summer.
This issue was written and designed by our Sibling Summer Interns, Zoe and Randy. Get to know them, along with our new Youth Coordinator on page 4. CLICK TO READ NOW
NOTE: This issue does not contain our usual Calendar of Events. Continue to watch for website, Facebook, and email announcements to get the latest updates.