Northstar Family Connections Inc.
Northstar Family Connections Inc. was established by Alisha “Ali” Starr, Brenda Segna, and Megan Kerr. Each founder has a background in supporting individuals who flourish with the right support, respect, and dignity that everyone deserves. The core principle of serving others forms the foundation of Northstar Family Connections Inc.
Since the trio united to support children in 2019, their advocacy and commitment to social justice have seen remarkable growth. The organization assists families through a team of professional staff trained in counseling, education, and empowerment, equipping them to better face life’s challenges. The organization consistently promotes and facilitates access to the community of one’s choice, helping individuals lead fulfilling and significant lives.
Our Mission
Visions of Hope
When the night is long and stars are few, when the road is dark, and dreams feel untrue,
It’s not about the finish line we chase, but the journey itself, finding our place. In the whispering winds, in the silent ground, Hope’s the melody in an unknowing sound. It’s the faith we hold in the great unknown, the courage to grow, the seeds we’ve sown.
Hope’s not knowing how the story ends, It’s the spark that lights, where a new day begins.
Believing in dreams, when they’re hard to see, Hope’s the heartbeat of possibility.
Through the shadows cast by doubt and fear, hope’s the lantern lighting paths unclear.
It’s a gentle hand reaching through the mist, a promise held tight in an unclenched fist.
When the world feels cold and dreams seem small, hope’s the whisper that we can stand tall.
It’s not the final act, but the first embrace, of every chance life dares us to face.
In the echoing silence of uncharted seas, hope’s the sail that catches a fearless breeze.
It’s not the certainty of calm ahead, but the trust in tides where our hearts are led. In each moment of struggle, in every fall, hope’s the voice behind each brave call.
It’s the lifeline thrown across the great divide, the belief in wings before we glide.
Our Directors
Alisha "Ali" Starr
Director of Administration and Finance
Ali has an extensive background in leadership and administration. She has a long history of volunteerism, and has served on the boards and committees of several non-profits. Ali served as President of the Junior Medical Alliance, Resident Medical Alliance, and the Yellowstone Valley Medical Alliance. She volunteered as the treasurer of the Joliet Food Bank for six years. Ali has administered a cooperative learning program, and supported programs for underprivileged and vulnerable children in Montana and Ethiopia. Her favorite “job” is that of wife, mother, and grandmother. Ali will be a key player in the success of NFC. Ali has completed 24-hour Supervised Visitation Training, and has a bookkeeping training certificate.
Brenda Segna
Director of Supervised Visitation and IT
With over eight years of dedicated experience in licensed foster care and supervising visits with biological parents, Brenda brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the heart of Northstar Family Connections. Brenda has 17 years of successful business ownership and is enriched by 20 years of teaching, including as a HIPAA Instructor. Her journey in foster care has instilled in her a profound understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in family dynamics, making Northstar Family Connections a place where each family’s unique story is honored and supported. Brenda has completed SVN 24 Hour Certificate Program and Program Management Essentials and is working on others that should be completed by opening date.
Megan Kerr, Director of Transportation Services
With over five years of experience as a licensed foster parent and a background in respite care for a special needs child through ResCare Home-care. She has provided consistent respite care for foster children in addition to her own foster placements and has successfully managed multiple rental properties for the past seven years. Megan knows first-hand the pressing need for Transportation Services to support visiting parents, their children, foster families, and CPS Caseworkers. Megan brings both compassion and practical expertise to her role at NFC. Megan has completed 24-hour Supervised Visitation Training. Much more training is in the pipeline. Through NorthStar Family Connections, she is committed to living out her faith by fostering family growth, togetherness, and providing meaningful support to vulnerable children and families.
Our Staff
Eva Sigsworth
Eva Sigsworth, our new Spanish Translator and Child Exchange Specialist, is a true gem in our community. Known for her loving, kind and generous nature, Eva has touched the lives of many through her work and personal endeavors. For over 45 years, she owned and ran Mamacitas, a beloved establishment that became a cornerstone of our community. Her dedication to fostering cultural exchange and understanding, especially among children, is truly inspiring. We are thrilled to have Eva’s wealth of experience and warm spirit enhancing our team.
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