Our Team

First 5 Fox Valley Core Team

Barb Tengesdal, Ph.D.

Barb brings a broad range of expertise in child development and non-profit leadership that is critical to building the infrastructure of the new Help Me Grow navigator system that matches families with young children to the resources available in our tri-county area. She is a respected leader in the field of early childhood with a deep understanding of how to create resource equity for all families, enabling our youngest children to thrive. Barb obtained a Master of Education degree from Azusa Pacific University and a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning from the University of North Dakota and has taught at Universities in three different states. At the heart of her values, Barb believes that childhood should be a journey, not a race through life!

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Amy Wilson, B.S.

Amy has worked in the field of early childhood for over 25 years, as a direct service provider, training and technical assistance support, coordinator of AASD Birth – Five Outreach and most recently as an
Early Intervention Team Leader. Amy’s passion is linking parents and caregivers of young children to critical community resources, so they feel confident in supporting their child’s learning and growth. Amy as a B.S. in Early Childhood Special Education from UW-Eau Claire.

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Chris Stewart

More about Chris, coming soon!

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Carrie Kiekhaefer

Carrie brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing, communications, branding, and community engagement across nonprofit organizations, senior living, agency, and corporate settings. She is passionate about using the power of storytelling and meaningful relationships to strengthen communities and support children and families. As Director of Communications & Resource Development at First 5 Fox Valley, Carrie leads efforts to connect people with the organization’s mission, build community partnerships, and advance the vision of the Family Resource Center. Carrie earned degrees in Marketing & Graphic Design and Religious Studies & Theology from St. Norbert College. She believes in meeting people where they are with grace, a smile, and a genuine desire to help every child and family thrive.

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New Position – Now Hiring

Help Me Grow Wisconsin and First 5 Fox Valley are expanding, and we’re looking for a passionate Statewide Co-Director of Expansion & Community Engagement to help strengthen and grow Help Me Grow affiliates across Wisconsin. This hybrid leadership opportunity will lead statewide expansion efforts while advancing a stronger system of support for children and families.

View the complete job description and application instructions below. The application period closes on July 24, 2026.

Job Description

New Position – Now Hiring

First 5 Fox Valley is expanding and innovating in our new Family Resource Center located in the heart of downtown Appleton and we’re looking for a Programs & Family Engagement Manager to lead this exciting new chapter! The FRC is a place where families can lead, learn, and play through the power of connections.

View the complete job description and application instructions below. The application period closes on July 17, 2026.

Job Description

HELP ME GROW

navigators

Contact a Navigator

Help Me Grow is a program powered by First 5 Fox Valley that connects families with young children to trusted local resources, developmental supports, and community services. Through a network of dedicated navigators and community partners, Help Me Grow helps families find answers, access support, and feel confident as they navigate the early years. Together, we’re building stronger connections so every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Ashley serves families in Waushara County through CAP Services, connecting them with community resources and early childhood services. She is committed to ensuring families have the support and information they need to help their children thrive.

Bailey serves families in Marquette and Green Lake counties through Children’s Wisconsin, connecting them with local resources and developmental supports. She works collaboratively with community partners to help children and families thrive.

Corey serves families throughout Waupaca County through Waupaca County Public Health, connecting them with local resources, developmental supports, and community services that support healthy child development.

Jennifer serves families across Winnebago, Calumet, Outagamie, and Shawano counties through Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin. She partners with families and community organizations to connect children with the resources and supports they need to thrive.

Katie partners with families and community providers to connect young children with the resources and supports they need to thrive. She specializes in supporting school districts, family child care providers, and children with developmental or special needs.

Kim works alongside early childhood professionals and families to strengthen connections to community resources and developmental supports. Her primary focus is partnering with child care programs throughout the region.

Martha serves bilingual families through LEAVEN/Casa Hispana, helping them access early childhood resources, community services, and developmental supports. She is committed to ensuring families receive culturally responsive guidance and connections.

MaryMargaret serves families through Catalpa Health, connecting them with developmental resources and community supports that promote healthy growth and development. She works collaboratively to ensure families receive coordinated care.

Natasha helps families and early childhood providers navigate services that support healthy child development. She works closely with child care programs to ensure children and caregivers have access to the resources they need.

Peggy serves families through Catalpa Health, helping connect children with developmental resources and community services. She is dedicated to strengthening partnerships that support families during the early years.

Priscilla supports bilingual families by connecting them with trusted community resources and early childhood services. She is passionate about building relationships that help families feel welcomed, informed, and empowered.

Sarah serves families through Outagamie County Public Health, connecting them with resources and services that support healthy child development. She collaborates with community partners to ensure families receive timely, coordinated support.