Ann Schneider

Ann joined the Positive Alternatives team in April of 2020. After starting as a Group Home Manager in River Falls, she transferred to the Menomonie location for approximately two years before assuming her current role as the River Falls Program Director in the fall of 2022.

Ann's motivation to work for a non-profit stems from her desire to have a positive impact on society. She views non-profits as everyday heroes, touching lives in meaningful ways by serving individuals in need.

Positive Alternatives’ commitment to its core values is what sets the organization apart for Ann. She sees the compassion, client-centeredness, collaboration, conscientiousness, and community that is at the heart of the PA mission reflected in all of the work that they do. Ann notes that the organization’s incredibly supportive leadership team ensures that these values are carried out in all aspects of the organization.

Ann brings a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling to her role as well as 27 years teaching youth in middle school and high school. While genuinely fulfilling, she wanted a career shifted more towards helping individuals facing mental health challenges and other barriers. After being exposed to the criminal justice system through her son's experiences, she realized the pressing need that existed for increased accessibility to rehabilitation services, further motivating her to pursue a career in this field.

Beyond her professional life, Ann takes great pride in her four adult children and eight grandchildren, with another on the way! She loves being outdoors, often camping, kayaking, and exploring new places with her husband on their Ebikes. Family holds a special place in her heart, spending as much time as she can making cherished memories with them.