Meet our Board of Directors

Jordyn Meinen 

Founder and President

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Jordyn holds a Bachelor's degree in Athletic Training and has a diverse background in healthcare and community service. After playing soccer for two years in college, she began her career as an outreach athletic trainer at a high school before transitioning to an outpatient orthopedic clinic. To prioritize her family and achieve better work-life balance, Jordyn eventually moved into the insurance field.

 

As a dedicated mom to a boy diagnosed with autism, she was inspired to found Next Generation Playground, a non-profit organization aimed at creating sensory-friendly playgrounds and providing support for families like hers.

 

In addition to her non-profit work, Jordyn serves as the Director of Special Needs Ministry at West Ridge Community Church in Elgin, IL, where she is passionate about creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all children and families. She also volunteers in the kids ministry at her church and enjoys crafting, photography, and spending time with her family.

Natalie Burmeister

Executive Director

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Natalie brings a dynamic background in marketing, project management, and change management. With a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and years of experience leading strategic initiatives, she is passionate about creating thoughtful, inclusive brand experiences that drive meaningful impact.

A firm believer in the importance of having a plan for change—executed with empathy and respect—Natalie approaches her work with both precision and heart. Her personal journey as a wife to her husband, Steven, and mother to Lincoln and Bethany, especially her experience parenting a neurodivergent child, fuels her dedication to building a more inclusive, understanding world for all children.

Natalie’s commitment to wellness extends beyond her professional life. She enjoys fitness, spending time outdoors with her family, and cooking nourishing meals that support healthy living. Recently, she transitioned from corporate project management to launch her own business in the hemp wellness space—deepening her mission to promote holistic well-being at home and in the communities she serves.

Jocelyn Fennewald

Director of Finance and Operational Strategy

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Jocelyn is a dedicated board member with over 13 years of experience as a business owner in the consulting ecosystem. Renowned for her unique blend of technical expertise and operational insight, she is committed to pushing boundaries, scaling innovative solutions, and maximizing technology investments to drive meaningful impact.

 

Her passion for creating positive change extends beyond her professional role; Jocelyn co-leads the Chicago Women in Tech user group and serves on the Advisory Board for WITness Success. She has been recognized as a Salesforce MVP for seven consecutive years, earning a prestigious place in the Salesforce MVP Hall of Fame.

 

Jocelyn’s mission is to make the world more equitable and innovative, and she actively works to uplift underrepresented voices in the technology industry. Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, staying active through fitness, camping, and exploring new adventures.

Jeanette Pacanowski, SLP

Director of Program Development and Engagement

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Jeanette Pacanowski is a mom to a preschooler and a speech-language pathologist at Community Therapy Services. As both a mother and an SLP, she is passionate about learning through play, fostering connections, practicing positive discipline, and embracing neurodiversity. Jeanette became involved with Next Gen Play when she was Oliver's Early Intervention SLP, and Jordyn shared her vision for a play and gathering space that would be inclusive of children and families of all abilities. Originally from Vernon Hills, IL, Jeanette now resides in Dundee, IL. She comes from a Russian-speaking family and is fluent in Russian. In her free time, she enjoys working out, baking, reading, spending time with her family, and exploring all the local attractions.

Ty Stacey

Director of Education Recruitment and Support

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Ty Stacey has spent 6.5 years in education as a teacher and academic advisor, working with students in grades 9 through 12 on history, government, and their individual paths to success. He currently serves as a Student Learning Advocate at Wisconsin Virtual Learning Academy, where he supports over 90 families and helps students build personalized short- and long-term success plans. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Cardinal Stritch University.

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Since 2019, Ty has guest lectured in Concordia University's Master's Program, speaking to students about the importance of the American Disabilities Act and fostering open conversations around disability advocacy.

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Outside of the classroom, Ty likes to unwind on the water, whether he's fishing or boating.

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"The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself." – Mark Caine

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Ivy Ottolino

Director of Brand and Marketing Strategy

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Ivy is a passionate advocate for autism awareness and inclusive community spaces. As a mother of two children with autism, she brings personal insight and a strong commitment to supporting environments where all children feel valued and included.

 

Over the years, Ivy has volunteered with several nonprofit organizations throughout the Chicagoland area. Ivy enjoys contributing her creativity through event décor and helping friends and families bring their celebrations to life. 

 

Outside of her involvement, she enjoys cooking new recipes, fitness, and working on DIY home projects

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Kevin Summerville

Director at Large

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Kevin Summerville brings over three decades of dedication to special education and community enrichment. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Illinois State University and later pursued a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from National Louis University.

 

With 33 years as a high school special education teacher, Kevin has been a passionate advocate for students of all abilities, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to thrive. His commitment to inclusion extends beyond the classroom, having dedicated 30 years to coaching high school wrestling and founding the Huntley Raiders Kids Wrestling Program, providing young athletes with the opportunity to build confidence and skills through the sport.

 

Kevin’s impact in the special needs community is just as profound. As a Special Olympics basketball coach, he led his team to a State Championship, highlighting his ability to inspire and empower athletes to reach their full potential. He is also a dedicated volunteer with Best Buddies, fostering meaningful connections and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Steven Burmeister

Director at Large

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Steven Burmeister is excited to join Next Generation Playground, where he aims to leverage his skills as both a corporate underwriter and a business owner of friendly local game stores to make a positive impact on kids and the community. Having previously served in roles that prioritize helping people find opportunities and build lasting relationships, Steven brings a strong commitment to fostering supportive environments. Lastly, as a father to neurodivergent children, he is dedicated to the organization’s goal of providing a safe and inclusive space for all children and families.