"SAIL has given me the opportunity to change minds, open doors, and understand that disability isn't a choice, but overcoming disability is. People with disabilities want to provide, succeed, grow, and share—just like those without disabilities."
- Terry James

Meet Our Staff

Amy Maes

Executive Director

Qualifications: Juris Doctorate, Bachelor of Science, over 16 years addressing legal issues related to full inclusion in our communities.

Thankful for: The moments each day brings, conscious living, and heightened awareness among us all to "go green."

Driven by: A belief that I do have the power to change, first within and then creatively outward to impact many.

Delighted by: Crocuses that bloom shortly after an April snow storm in Marquette.

Judy Vivian

Deputy Director

Background: My experience with disability and independent living began 26 years ago with the birth of my first child Bryan. Bryan was born with cerebral palsy, and because of the significant services he needed, I had to become his advocate and encourage him to be as independent as possible. I served on the SAIL board from 1998 and have worked there since 2002.

Thankful for: My family. Married for 35 years and the mother of 2 children, Bryan & Jason.

Passionate about: Every person's equality and value. We can all learn from each other if we get to know each other.

Interested in: Singing, spending time at the lake, and most textile arts, as well as other mediums.

Michelle Christunas, BSW

I.L. Advocate, Transition Coordinator and AT Specialist

Qualifications:BSW from NMU 2009

Thankful for: The chance to bring some happiness in someone’s day. And my beautiful children and sisters:)

Driven by: A quote one of my professor's told me “If not you, than who?" And I believe in that philosophy. It can take one person to start change and it starts with YOU!

Delighted by: The fact I work in a place that supports people with disabilities and helps them discover ways to live independently.

Emily Gregorich

Transition and Employment Specialist/Independent Living Advocate

Qualifications: Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and a Master of Arts in Education degree from Northern Michigan University

Thankful for: My wonderful family who has supported me throughout all of my adventures.

Driven by: My passion is helping others achieve their goals.

Having fun with: I enjoy scrapbooking, playing the piano, reading and spending time with family and friends.

Elicia Herkert, CIRS

Certified Information Referral/ Benefits Specialist

Qualifications: Certified Information and Referral Specialist (CIRS), Associates degree in Computer Technology, SOAR Trainer

Proud of: The people I work with and our agency.

Thankful for: The opportunity to help make a difference in someone's life.

Driven by: My desire to not let anyone go without help.

Having fun with: Assistive technology.

Janice Peterson

Systems Change Advocate

Qualifications: Major in public relations/minor in Journalism. Advocated for students with disabilities in college. On several boards and committees serving people with disabilities.

Proud of: My independence and my perseverance to break the cycle of abuse and poverty in my own life.

Thankful for: My health, working for civil rights of people with disabilities, and having a job that makes a difference.

Passionate about: Breaking the cycle of poverty and abuse, and making change for people with psychiatric disabilities who are in jail due to dual diagnosis and self medicating.

Interested in: Current events, the environment, and hiking.

Sarah Peura, CTRS

Program Director

Qualifications: B.A. in Sports Management and Communication - The University of Michigan; M.A. in Therapeutic Recreation - Central Michigan University; Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

Proud of: The motivation and continued diligence of the people I work with and work for on a daily basis.

Thankful for: My family who has supported me throughout my life. They have given me the strength to persevere and have kept me laughing along the way.

Passionate about: Finding ways to help people to increase their quality of life through assistive technology and recreation.

Interested in: Anything outdoors.

Rod DesJardins

Independent Living Advocate

Qualifications: Associate degrees in Journalism and Small Business Management, Employment Training Specialist, ROPES Instructor

Background: U.S. Navy submarine veteran, local elected official for 15 years, 10 years experience providing service and support for disabled workers, diverse employment history, extensive local civic involvement.

Thankful for: The chance to live and work in the U.P.

Proud of: Raising three good kids and making a difference in my community.

Interested in: Finding new ways to work together to help the most people and do the most good. It’s amazing what we can accomplish if no one cares who get s the credit.

Stacy Maijala

Independent Living Advocate, SPAR and Assistive Technology (AT)

Qualifications: B.S. Degree in Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences from Northern Michigan University

Passionate about: Helping others to achieve greater independence, and to see their worth as an individual, all while having fun and enjoying life.

Thankful for: My family and friends who have always supported and encouraged me to chase after my dreams!

Proud of: The chance to be a part of this organization, and working with and for an incredible group of individuals.

Interested in: Fishing, hunting, kayaking, biking, running, and just about anything outdoors!