Rebecca Jackson

CEO / Executive Director

Rebecca has been with Balance since October 2025.

Rebecca brings a wealth of experience to Balance, with over 20 years in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) field— ranging from direct support to 15 years of executive leadership. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Non-Profit Management from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and is known for her expertise in culture and performance development. Recently, she served at Centers for Independence, a Milwaukee-based organization supporting adults and children with disabilities, similar to Balance.

In her free time, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, traveling as much as possible, and never misses an opportunity to relax with a cup of coffee outside with her husband and their dogs.

Email: rjackson@balanceinc.org

Alyse Sandow

Director of Programs

Alyse has been with Balance since July 2023. Prior to arriving at Balance, she was a special education teacher for 11 years. Alyse has a Bachelor's in Special Education Developmental Disabilities from Winona State University.

From a young age, Alyse enjoyed helping others with disabilities, whether supporting others through Sunday school or finding creative ways to support toddlers through arts and crafts at a daycare. She didn't know it until Balance welcomed her in, but Alyse has found that working with adults is the best! She feels lucky to spend her days with the amazing group that calls Balance home.

As the Director of Programs, Alyse works with the team to support all of Balance’s program participants and residents by managing the budget, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collaborating with care teams. She works closely with the other directors and coordinators to create new activity ideas, community partnerships, and innovative volunteer opportunities.

Outside of work, Alyse enjoys spending time with her husband and two little girls, exploring new parks, looking for beach glass on the shores of Lake Michigan, diving headfirst into any true crime or mystery media, and she has recently become a crazy plant lady (at home and in her office).

Phone: 262-268-6811

Email: information@balanceinc.org

Stephanie Casper

Director of Human Resources

Stephanie Casper has been with Balance since March 2024. She is passionate about Human Resources and has been blessed to expand on her knowledge and experience over the past several years. Stephanie believes in advocating for her employees and in-turn, empowering them to advocate for themselves. She has received both her Master’s and Bachelor’s Degrees from UW-Milwaukee.

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her daughter, family, and friends. She also takes pleasure in curling up next to her two cats and reading a good book.

Phone number: 262-268-6811 ext 101

Direct Line: 262-977-4324

Email: scasper@balanceinc.org

Melissa Nichelson

Director of Health Services

Melissa has 20 years of experience in the nursing field. She is a Licensed Practical Nurse with a degree from MATC. She has worked with the elderly in long-term care, both at assisted living and skilled nursing facilities before joining Balance in March of 2023. She also has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Business from UW-Milwaukee.

As the Director of Health Services Melissa oversees the management and delivery of healthcare services ensuring high-quality care that meets the needs of clients while adhering to regulatory standards. She manages the daily health maintenance of clients as well as educating staff on the latest up-to-date healthcare policies and procedures.

Outside of work, Melissa is a mom of three wonderful children. She enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, outdoor activities, and traveling.

Phone: 262-268-6811 ext. 105

Direct Line: 262-355-5443

Email: mnichelson@balanceinc.org

Lillian Short

Director of Development and Marketing

Lillian Short has been with Balance since November 2021. She has a Bachelor’s in Journalism from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism.

Lillian loves supporting others while they pursue their dreams. She believes everyone deserves the chance to live their best life and is always excited to help the individuals at Balance do just that.

She spends her free time hanging out with her husband and two kids, writing, painting, reading, cooking, and doing yoga.

Phone: 262-268-6811 ext 104

Direct Line: 262-277-1858

Email: lshort@balanceinc.org

Shannon McCann

Assistant Director of Programs

Shannon has been with Balance since November 2021.

She has more than 10 years of experience in activity programming and truly loves having the opportunity to continue to bring fun and unique experiences to clients. Shannon has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Western Illinois University.

Shannon enjoys spending her time outdoors hiking and camping with her furry Best Friend, Gilligan, who is also a frequent visitor at Balance for "Wag Wednesdays"! She also enjoys reading and painting in her spare time.

Phone: 262-389-6133

Direct Line: 262-268-6811 ext 103

Email: smccann@balanceinc.org