Empowering young adults aged 18-26 in the McHenry County area, through programs that teach essential adult life skills, thereby nurturing independence, hope, and resilience.
Meet our Board of Directors
Mandy Jagarnauth
Founder/President
Mandy is a lifelong resident of McHenry County deeply committed to community welfare. With a background in nonprofit work from her teens, she has held roles such as Recreational Specialist, Job Developer, and Site Manager, focusing on empowering individuals through inclusive programs and employment opportunities.Her educational journey includes an Early Childhood Development Certificate from McHenry County College and studies in Psychology at Arizona University, enriching her ability to support others.Founder of Stairway to Prosperity (STP), Mandy guides young adults toward success with programs in resource connections, life skills, and employment readiness. Her dedication to empowering youth reflects her belief in their limitless potential.Outside work, Mandy enjoys time with her husband and twin boys, balancing professional and personal life with evening walks and family meals.
Macky Leech
Treasurer, Program and Fundraising Committee
Macky is a longtime resident of McHenry County. She has been a devoted member of the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) team for over 8 years. During this time she has developed a passion for working with individuals with disabilities and currently holds the role as the BRIGHT Program Specialist.Throughout her years of experience, Macky has guided the individuals she works with towards success by teaching them important life skills and helping to secure employment. Macky’s dedication in working with marginalized demographics has afforded her a long, successful history in the nonprofit world.Macky is currently enrolled at McHenry County College in the Pastry and Baking Management program.When Macky is not working, teaching or learning, you might find her with her two chihuahua’s- Tim and Rico, or out and about supporting the local restaurants and breweries in the area. She is an avid baker and enjoys doing anything in the kitchen- except for the dishes!Macky is the first board member in 2022 and is dedicated and proud to be part of the Stairway team and is excited to see members of the community utilize their services to persevere and prosper!
Ken West
Board of Director
I am a 47 year resident of McHenry County. During that time, I have been both an active volunteer in our schools and an active artisan of hand made fine crafts. Whenever possible, I combine these two activities.
In 2013, I opened Material Things Artisan Market, a fine craft marketplace on the Woodstock Square offering the handmade works of 100+ artisans. In 2001 I and others founded a non-profit youth support organization called Community Connections for Youth (CCY). CCY's mission is "Empowering Youth Through the Arts". CCY believes art related activities build patience and self esteem. And as importantly, offers a positive alternative to other activities that youth might otherwise choose to fill their free time.
Carlos Arteaga
Secretary
Meet Carlos M. Arteaga, a true force for positive change. As an attorney and resident of McHenry County, he channels his passion for justice into making a difference as a Board Member for Stairway to Prosperity.
Carlos is committed to helping those who often slip through the cracks, utilizing his legal expertise to fight for the rights of the marginalized and disadvantaged. His genuine desire to uplift and empower others is evident in his unwavering dedication to community service and his relentless pursuit of a more inclusive society.
Carlos understands that everyone deserves a fair shot at success, and he wholeheartedly believes in building a stairway to prosperity for all. Through this organization's tireless efforts, Carlos M. Arteaga glad to be part of a team that is transforming lives and making McHenry County a better place for everyone.
Join Our Board!
