Michelle Basham, JD, ESQ, MPA, Executive Director
Michelle Basham came to Genesis II from the MN Department of Human Services where she was responsible for strategic planning and special projects, including initiatives focused on at-risk adults, cultural competency, diversity, disparities in health care, and emerging issues in human services. Michelle was also the founder and Executive Director of Avenues for Homeless Youth, the first shelter for homeless youth in Minneapolis. She has a Masters in Public Administration from Hamline University and earned her Juris Doctor from Hamline University School of Law.
Email Michelle Basham or call 612.877.7827.
Bernell E. Buchanan, Associate Director
Bernell Buchanan has been involved with Genesis II for over 7 years first as a consultant, then as Director of Finance & Development, Interim Executive Director, and now as the agency’s Associate Director. She has a varied background in organizational management and finance, including 5 years of consulting on nonprofit accounting and finance, 3 years as controller of a national non-profit, 3 years of auditing in the public accounting sector and several years in the private corporate sector. Bernell holds a BA in Accounting and an inactive Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
Email Bernell Buchanan or call 612.877.7828.
Jill Helgemoe, Manager of Supervised Parenting Services
Jill Helgemoe has extensive experience advocating for women and families at various domestic abuse shelters and advocacy organizations beginning her career in 1995. She has a BA in Women’s Studies from the University of Minnesota and is pursuing her Masters of Social Work. She manages all aspects of our Supervised Parenting Services.
Email Jill Helgemoe or call 612.877.7832.
Beverly Pfeiffer, Manager of Children’s Services
Beverly (Bea) Pfeiffer has been working in child development since 1997, including being a center manager and lead teacher. Bea also has experience working with troubled youth through work at teen shelters. Bea started her career at Genesis II in 1999. She has an AAS in Child Development. Bea is responsible for our Child Development Center and Buzzy Beehive Child Care.
Email Bea Pfeiffer or call 612.877.7821.
Ann Gaasch, Program Director
Ann Gaasch is responsible for management oversight of the programs and support services, including developing policies and procedures, developing new programs to serve youth and families, and ensuring program compliance and evaluation. Ann was formerly the Family Services Manager at Tubman Family Alliance, Program Director at the St. Paul/Ramsey County Children’s Initiative, and Suicide Prevention Coordinator at the Minnesota Department of Health. She holds a B.A. from Carleton College in Northfield, Minn., and a master’s degree in counseling and general psychology from St. Mary’s University in Minneapolis. She is the co-author of a grief support curriculum and has provided trainings on a variety of topics at local and national conferences.
Email Ann Gaasch or call 612.877.7831.