The STAR Association is led by a 17-member board of directors. These directors and collaborative partners bring broad experience in advancing solutions for community health, disability issues and health disparity. We would like to highlight and show our appreciation for Jenna Helminski-Juve, the STAR Board Treasurer, Chair of the Governance Committee, and Co-Chair of the Fundraising Committee. Jenna has been with STAR since June of 2023 and we are very happy to have her a part of our community.

What does Jenna do within the La Crosse community?

Jenna is a supervisor at La Crosse County Human Services in the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC). She has been with the County for over five years, three of which in a supervisory role. Jenna directly oversees eight ADRC professionals and manages three key program areas: youth transition services, benefit counseling, and caregiver support. 

In addition, Jenna is part of the leadership team for the Pathways Home initiative, a County-City effort to reach functional zero homelessness in La Crosse. She leads a team of social workers specializing in housing-first and behavioral health case management.

What impact has STAR had on Jenna?

Jenna got involved with STAR because she “believes everyone deserves access to opportunities that promote health and wellbeing”. STAR creates connections, helping build healthy relationships and support networks in our community.  It celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion, bringing people together where differences are embraced.

STAR has positively impacted many lives, including Jenna’s. She states “I’m grateful for the dedicated staff, participants, sponsors, and board members, as they all contribute to the organization’s success.  Whether I’m meeting with the board, attending fundraisers, or seeing programs in action, I’m always inspired by the sense of hope and energy that STAR brings to the community.”

Jenna enjoys all of the programs offered at the STAR, and found it very difficult to pick her favorite. As an avid tennis player, the adaptive and para tennis program stands out most to her! Tennis is a lifelong sport, and it brings Jenna joy knowing STAR makes it accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Thank you Jenna for all of your hard work, support, and fun energy you bring to the STAR Board and Community. We are very grateful to have you on our team and look forward to growing with you!

Written By: Emma Zibble