Volunteers drive KAO's work. With their help KAO is able to offer services for Koochiching County's older adults. From shopping for groceries to visiting with our clients in their homes, KAO volunteers provide many of the necessary means for older county residents to stay longer in their homes and have a positive experience while doing so. 


    KAO         People!



Volunteers 


                   
                                                     Board


          
       

         

           Staff
KAO has a committed, all volunteer Board of Directors who meet once a month. In addition to helping to advise on operations, board members help in staffing events and programs. 
  • Current Board Members:
  • Kevin Adee; 
  • Tim Fairchild;
  • Dr. Jeff Hardwig,Vice Chair; 
  • Cynthia Jaksa, Secretary;
  • Lyndon Larsen;
  • Julie Lepisto;
  • Sarah Monahan, Chair; 
  • Terry Murray, Treasurer; 
  • ​Pernell Sather

Douglas Skrief, Executive Director

A native of International Falls, Douglas Skrief has served a number of area nonprofit entities as a staff member, board member and consultant. He has a broad background in communications, grant-writing, facilitation and planning.

Kristy Wagner-Werner, Caregiver Consultant/Dementia Support Specialist/Memory Cafe Coordinator

​  ​As a certified caregiver consultant, Kristy Wagner-Werner works to support individuals and families who are providing care to an older adult or someone with dementia. She can help a stressed caregiver find resources, learn coping skills and find time for self-care. Kristy also helps persons with dementia and their care partners, helping to locate resources, learn about the disease and plan for the future. 
Kristy was born and raised in International Falls. After graduation from Falls High School she attended Bemidji State University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Management. She brings with her a strong background in nonprofit and for-profit organizations.
Kristy and her family enjoy the outdoors and spending time on Rainy Lake. Kristy also volunteers in her children’s classrooms and at related school activities. 

Kari Miggins, Program Specialist

 ​The Program Specialist at Koochiching Aging Options is Kari Miggins.
Kari is responsible for administering a number of programs, including Senior Wheels, Senior Companion Program, Groceries to You!, RSVP and the Koochiching Good Visit Program. The job includes recruiting and managing volunteers.
Kari is a graduate of Falls High School and is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in psychology. She has extensive nonprofit experience, including 16 years as a teacher and administrator at St. Thomas School. She has provided private service care for area youth. She has been involved with Community Education, KIDS Plus, Bronco Basketball Boosters and STRIVE. She has a son in college and a daughter in high school.