Why we started MNDSA
Minnesota Disability Support Alternatives was founded on a simple but powerful belief: you are the expert on your best life. We recognized that many people with disabilities — especially those who are neurodivergent, from culturally marginalized communities, or living in rural Minnesota — were falling through the cracks of a system not designed with them in mind. MNDSA was built to fill that gap: to provide expert, person-centered support planning and community connection to anyone who needs it, regardless of where they live or what they can pay.
Vision
A Minnesota where every person with a disability can design and live the life they choose, supported by community, free from institutionalization, and connected to the resources they need to thrive.
Mission
To educate, connect, and empower people with disabilities and their families through: alternative funding education to prevent institutionalization; person-centered community support planning; outreach to economically and culturally marginalized populations; home education coaching for youth with disabilities; and connection to alternative community resources.
Values
Neurodiversity Paradigm
Inclusive Language
Non-Descrimination
Lived Experience
We recognize and celebrate neurological differences as natural human variation. We specialize in providing information and services to the Neurodivergent population.
We support the use of self-selected inclusive language — whether identity-first or person-first — as chosen by each individual.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of our activities or operations.
Our staff are disabled or care for people who are disabled. This is not just a job. It is personal.
Our Team
Our team combines over 20 years of professional experience with firsthand knowledge of what it means to navigate the disability services system. We are support planners, advocates, mentors, and connectors — and all of us have a personal connection and reason for doing this work.
Our Board of Directors
Christopher McDonald
Board Chair
Chris is the father of four and the grandfather of two boys. His youngest grandchild was recently diagnosed with Autism and sparked his involvement in the special needs community.
Chris has volunteered regularly in his community through other organizations. He brings a passion for life, equality, and community. As Board President Chris hopes to continue his community involvement and help more families like his.
Chris loves kayaking and being on the water whenever he can.
Liah Vaartjes
Secretary
Liah is passionate about helping others and believes that strong communities are built through compassion, inclusion, and support.
Liah earned her degree in Recreational Therapy from Western Carolina University and currently works as a Health Unit Coordinator at CentraCare.
Her experiences supporting individuals with mental health conditions, physical disabilities, and developmental disabilities have strengthened her commitment to advocacy and person-centered care.
She joined the Minnesota Disability Support Alternatives board because she believes individuals with disabilities and their families deserve access to the resources and support they need to thrive. She is excited to contribute to an organization that shares those values and is committed to making a positive difference in the community.
Our Team
Kayla Theisen
Executive Director
After navigating county services for her daughter, Kayla became a Support Planner with a passion for helping others access the supports they need to live their best lives while maintaining choice, independence, and flexibility. She quickly established herself as a leading force in the nonprofit world, making connections and fiercely advocating.
Kayla stepped into the role of Executive Director in 2024 and has continued to expand the reach of MNDSA ever since. Kayla has volunteered with Family Voices of Minnesota and is an active member of the disability community, bringing both personal experience and a strong commitment to supporting individuals and families. While Kayla enjoys working with people of all backgrounds and support needs, she has particular experience supporting neurodivergent individuals and those with complex medical needs.
Outside of her advocacy work, Kayla enjoys exploring new places and expressing her creativity through crafting.
Sarah
Support Planner
Jennifer
Support Planner
Stacy
Support Planner
Lisa
Support Planner
Carrie Theisen
Treasurer
Carrie Theisen is a dedicated community advocate, crafter, traveler, and scrapbook enthusiast who believes in the power of connection and helping others.
As the proud mother of an amazing son with special needs, Carrie understands firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with navigating the special needs world. Her perspective is further shaped by her own journey, having been diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at just 18 months old.
When she's not volunteering or advocating, Carrie enjoys scrapbooking, crafting, and traveling, creating memories and experiences that she loves to share with family and friends.
Jess Wilson
Board Member
Jess is the proud mother of two incredible children with special needs, whose experiences have inspired her passion for advocacy, inclusion, and supporting families in the community.
As a board member of MNDSA, Jess looks forward to the opportunity to give back, share her perspectives as a parent, and help create meaningful opportunities and resources for others.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and spending quality time with her family.
Kaylie Schmidt
BRIDGE Program Manager, Disability Advocate
Kaylie joined BRIDGE to pursue her passion for full-time advocacy and help ensure that individuals and families have the resources, knowledge, and support they need to find their voice and advocate for their best lives.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and brings experience as a former Public Health Nurse and Registered Nurse in pediatric, NICU, and telephone triage settings, as well as experience providing parent support, systems navigation, and facilitating support groups in the nonprofit sector. Kaylie is a graduate of Partners in Policymaking Class 39 and has served as a volunteer autism spokesperson and trainer for organizations seeking education and insight on autism and disability.
Her advocacy has also reached broader audiences—Kaylie is featured in a Hulu documentary about autism service dogs and joined Rosie O’Donnell for an hour-long conversation on her podcast, Onward.
Peter
Support Planner
Jade
Support Planner
Reports & financials
MNDSA is committed to transparency in our operations and use of funds. Annual reports, IRS Form 990s, and other financial documents are available below.
Financials
Reports
Support the Mission
MNDSA is a nonprofit organization. Every dollar supports our ability to provide low or no cost services to individuals and families who need them most.
Please contact Kayla Bertrand, Executive Director, for further information on making a donation to our organization.
Interested in becoming an organizational partner? Contact us to learn about partnership opportunities for clinics, hospitals, foundations, and advocacy organizations.