Meet the Wisconsin PATCH Staff!
Kendra Block (she/her)
PATCH Green Bay Teen Educator Program Coordinator / PATCH Teen Consultant Coordinator
Hey everyone! I'm Kendra, the PATCH Coordinator in Green Bay, WI. I’m originally from Ripon, WI. After High-school, I spent a year in South Florida before attending college. Recently, I earned my Technical Diploma as a Human Services Assistant through NTC and I'm currently in the process of becoming a Certified Doula.
During my downtime, I enjoy practicing yoga, spending time at cozy coffee shops, and spending quality time with both mine and my partner's family - they bring so much joy to life!
Reflecting on my teenage years, I recall feeling nervous and uncomfortable while going through changes with my mental and physical health. Now looking back, I know that having a program like PATCH could have amplify my voice and advocacy for myself and others. There's immense power in asking questions and nurturing curiosity. I wholeheartedly believe in PATCH's mission, and I hope to see it grow to meet the vital needs in our communities.
James Woods (he/him)
PATCH Madison Teen Educator Program Coordinator
Hi there, my name is James Woods! I also go by Jay, and my pronouns are he/him/his. I’m from Madison, Wisconsin and I went to Sun Prairie High School. After I graduated from high school I attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where I received my bachelors degree in social work. I also received two minors, one in psychology and the other in theater.
While I was studying social work, I hoped to find a job in advocacy, healthcare, education, and supporting underserved populations. I didn't think it would be possible to find all of these things in a job but then I found PATCH and it turns out I really could have it all! My favorite thing about working for PATCH is seeing how teens grow in their confidence around healthcare advocacy and being able to support them on that journey. I also love how supportive my colleagues are!
In my free time I love to spend time outdoors. I enjoy biking, hiking, and camping. I also enjoy going to all of the different festivals Madison has to offer. One of my other favorite things is to spend time with my fur babies! Daisy is pictured here and I also have a cat named Blu. I'm looking forward to hopefully connecting with you soon!
Kiana Gasch (she/her)
PATCH Milwaukee Teen Educator Program Coordinator / PATCH Wisconsin Communications & Partnership Specialist
Hi friends! My name is Kiana! I grew up in a small, rural town about 30 minutes south of Green Bay, though I am adopted from Texas! I was heavily active in 4-H and FFA and also played softball competitively for 8 years. After high school, I earned my BA in Communication from UW - Milwaukee. I’ve recently found a love for cooking and experimenting with new recipes in my free time.
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I began working with PATCH in January 2024 and have found my passion within this organization where advocacy and empowerment are at the forefront for our teens. I LOVE having the opportunity to work both with external partners and directly with our youth. It's truly the best of both worlds!