My Dreams Foundation is a non-profit 501(C)(3) charitable organization
Meet our Board
Jennifer Frizzell, CEO and President
I purchased my home in LaPlace, LA in 2002 and while a native of Wisconsin, St. John is my home. My professional career the past 25 years as a non-profit health care executive, business owner, and now as a member of the St. John Parish School Board, I experienced many professional triumphs but none as great as the rewards I receive from being a mom to my daughter, Trinity. I am often told, “Trinity is so lucky to have you.” If they only knew, I am the one who has been blessed beyond measure to have my heart opened to a love so pure and genuine. While the role of a parent to a child with a disability is not always easy and often unknown, I would not change my role for anything in the world.
Trinity Jacobs, Vice President and Co-Founder
I am a vibrant and social young adult living with Down Syndrome. I was raised to believe I can do anything when just given the opportunity; I just may do it in my own unique way! My disability does not define me, instead I have chosen to step forward and show the world the amazing things I can do! I hope you will join me in helping to empower the dreams and change the lives of persons living with a disability in our community!
Kristina Bandsma Miller, Board Member
My name is Kristina Bandsma Miller, and I am the proud mother of two amazing sons, Alex and Andrew. Alex is married to my wonderful daughter-in-law, Katie, and they have made their home in Covington, LA. Andrew lives with me along with my partner, Markus Seitz, at our home in Destrehan, LA. Andrew is special needs living with Autism. We also have a loving dog, Tony and a grand dog, Nyla.
I retired from the St. John the Baptist School System in May 2023 after 31 years of service of pouring my love for learning into my students. I am the proud graduate of St. Charles Catholic High School in LaPlace.
Since retirement, I have been actively involved with multiple social and civic organizations including My Dreams Foundation, LaPlace Lions Club, Team Pack-A-Lunch, and Ainsley’s Angels of Baton Rouge. Andrew is an active member of these organizations as well providing him with opportunities to be active and thrive in our community,
I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the beach, visiting Disney, cruising, and listening to 3rd Street Band at live concert venues.
I am honored to serve on the board of My Dreams Foundation, an organization which promotes inclusion for all individuals living with a disability. I hope to bring my years of experience as an educator and special needs mom to this board because I believe in the mission of empowering dreams and changing lives of the amazing people our programs reach.
Iona Holloway, Board Member
I served as a paraprofessional , bus monitor, and truancy officer for St. John Parish public schools for over 40 years. I also served the community in many different roles, as a Sunday School Teacher, a member of the St. John the Baptist Parish Housing Board, President of St. John Association of Educators, Council on Aging, and as a member of the National Education Association Board of Directors and Executive Committee. I was the first paraprofessional to be elected as the President of the St. John Association of Educators and the first paraprofessional elected to the NEA Executive Committee. I am always working to make my community a better place for everyone. Having worked in special education, making a difference in the lives of those living with a disability is dear to my heart. I also have two granddaughters with a developmental disability so working for a more inclusive world is important to me.
Kawander Parquet-Dixon, Board Member
I'm a lifelong resident of St. John the Baptist Parish. I'm married with three lively boys. I enjoy family time, traveling, attending sporting events, and being a "boy/sports mom". My oldest son has a rare genetic disorder called Soto's syndrome. Working with the special needs population is near and dear to my heart. I work as a family nurse practitioner, and I enjoy helping people any way I possibly can. I specialize in geriatrics and long-term care.
Michelle Lemoine, Board Member
I have called LaPlace home for over 30 years since marrying my husband, Scott Lemoine, a native of the area. Together, we have raised four children and are now proud grandparents of two. Our youngest daughter, Courtney, who has Down syndrome, inspired me to be involved with My Dreams Foundation. Being part of this organization has been incredibly meaningful, as it creates opportunities not only for Courtney but for so many individuals in our community. I am honored to serve on the Board and be part of its continued growth.
Professionally, I have 18 years of experience in public school education and currently work as a legal assistant. I am also actively involved with Special Olympics Louisiana, where I coach multiple sports, building on years of coaching experience gained while supporting my older children’s activities.