Bill Schneider – Founder of Destination Elevation
For most of his adult life, Bill Schneider lived in survival mode—turning to alcohol, drugs, and anything that helped him escape the pain of reality. That path led to repeated legal trouble and personal chaos, until one day, he made a life-changing decision: to stop running and start building something better.
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As Bill confronted the layers of his past, he came face-to-face with the childhood trauma that had fueled so much of his struggle. Healing began when he found the courage to be vulnerable and sought guidance from mentors who had walked the same road. Through that connection, he discovered peace, freedom, and purpose—proof that transformation is possible for anyone willing to face their truth.
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After completing eleven treatment programs, Bill recognized a gap in how people connect during recovery. “It’s hard to relate to someone who hasn’t lived it,” he often said. That realization sparked the vision for Destination Elevation—a movement built by people who have been there, for people who are still finding their way.
Bill dedicated his life to helping others—especially youth—find a better path than the one he once walked. He believed lasting change starts with prevention and mentorship, empowering both those who receive guidance and those who give it. For him, it wasn’t just about recovery; it was about redemption, growth, and purpose.
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Though Bill is no longer with us, his mission lives on through Destination Elevation. His story continues to remind us all that no matter how far off course life takes you, it’s never too late to choose a better destination.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every person has the support and tools to rise above adversity, challenge negative thinking, and make empowered choices—creating generational change and lifelong transformation for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Our Core Values
Our core values are to provide lifetime solutions to short-term problems in the youth. We will do this by instilling principles that will help shape the future of the youth and creating a positive change in their families.
Jen Dirk – Executive Director
Jen Dirk leads Destination Elevation as Executive Director, bringing strategic vision, deep nonprofit leadership experience, and community commitment to our organization’s work. Jen’s career spans communications, public relations, and organizational leadership — all grounded in a passion for empowering young people and strengthening community impact.
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Before joining Destination Elevation, Jen built a career rooted in mission-driven leadership. She has led teams through strategic growth, cultivated partnerships, and championed organizational missions that make measurable differences in people’s lives. Her background includes extensive experience in communications and stakeholder engagement, helping drive awareness and support for causes that matter.
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Jen’s leadership style is grounded in collaboration, clear communication, and accountability. She works closely with board members, partners, mentors, and volunteers to ensure Destination Elevation’s programs and services reflect our core values and achieve meaningful outcomes for the youth and families we serve.
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Committed to community connection and lifelong learning, Jen believes in the power of relationships to elevate purpose, spark growth, and create lasting change.
Our Board
Our Board is a dynamic group of caring individuals within our community, who want to give back to the community and make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth. The Board consists of members who have a vast knowledge of business, sales, recovery from addiction, jails and institutions, law enforcement, and practices based on spiritual principles. We are not affiliated or connected with any political, religious, or law enforcement groups. Anyone may join us, or utilize our services, regardless of age, race, sexual identity, creed, religion, or lack of religion.
