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The Team
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Joseph Jacobson
Executive Director
Joseph came through the program as a resident in 2017. After a few mishaps and going around the mountain for two more years, he finally surrendered in 2019. Joseph began working at The Fortress in December of 2019 as an administrative assistant, became Assistant Program Director in 2023, and took over as Director July 1, 2023. He oversees all operations of The Fortress Program. His commitment to the Lord is primary, and his heart for the men here is understanding.
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brent waldemarsen
Ministry Coordinator - Case Manager
Pastor Brent began working at The Fortress in 2013 in ministerial counseling. Over the last few years he has become our full time on staff Pastor and Ministry Coordinator. Pastor Brent has also taken on case management, doing one on one discipleship with the men. As a bi-vocational Pastor of Harvest Community Church he is an asset to this team and community. He oversees the group aspect of the program and arranges our Wednesday night services.
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Chris myers
Case Manager - CPRS
Chris came through The Fortress in 2021, and after 30 years of working with youth all over the country he moved into a position here working with the men as a case manager. Recently, Chris has been licensed with MN as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and utilizes that certification in his position. He continues to have a heart for the younger generation who end up walking through our doors. He meets with residents on a one to one basis to create "WRAP" plans, goal setting and accomplishing, and employment searching.
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Jonathan Portillo
Kitchen Supervisor
Jonathan came to The Fortress as a resident in 2017. He graduated out and began to work with men that dealt with dual diagnosis' giving him a heart for men that struggle with mental health disorders. In 2022 Jonathan began working here at The Fortress as evening staff, and beginning in 2024 he is now our certified Kitchen Manager. When available Jonathan does outing's with residents; fishing, movies, swimming, etc.
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Damion Franklin
Kitchen Staff / Program Mentor
Damion is second in command in terms of the kitchen, working directly under and with Jonathan. He came through the program as well. Damion has been an asset in relationships one on one with the men and is a great program mentor. When available he takes guys to go workout, or do anything outside of the house. Damion relates to the men on another level.
