• Kirsten VanderJagt, Founder & Volunteer

    Kirsten graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. With over 22 years of experience in finance, nonprofit work, and education, Kirsten is dedicated to helping others. In 2024, she is traveling, educating and providing private money loans to residential real estate investors nationwide. Click below to learn about Kirsten’s personal story of overcoming the loss of her parents and two brothers, and why Katie's House Foundation is on a lifelong quest to make a measurable impact.

    Founder's bio... 

  • JulieAnn Ferraro, Interim CEO & Placements

    JulieAnn holds a Bachelor's degree in Agribusiness from the University of Wisconsin. She served with distinction as a law enforcement officer with the Palatine Police Department for 26 years before retiring in
    June 2022. Currently, JulieAnn works part-time as a detective for the Inverness, IL police department and serves as the law enforcement liaison for Cook County District 3's drug, veteran, and mental health courts. JulieAnn is committed to achieving exceptional results and is the acting Interim CEO at Katie's House Foundation.

  • Kristen Hory Doropan, Committee Member

    Kristen graduated from San Diego State University and the University of San Diego School of Law with a degree in Criminal Justice and a paralegal certificate. With a 25-year background in NYC real estate, permits, violation removal, and environmental quality, she brings a wealth of expertise to her work. Kristen is married with two young children and is a breast cancer survivor. Through her work with Katie's House Foundation, Kristen aims to provide temporary housing for medical patients and at-risk adults.

  • James "JJ" VanderJagt, Committee Member

    JJ graduated from The Master's University with a degree in Biblical Studies. With over 30 years of experience, he has been instrumental in supporting a successful cabinetry company and overseeing numerous building renovations. In addition to his professional accomplishments, JJ is a dedicated pastor, husband and father of six children. Specializing in shared housing, he is well-versed in its operational intricacies. JJ provides sound advice grounded in reason and his deep knowledge of Biblical principles.