Jess Schaler

Program Director

Jess was born and raised in central Wisconsin, attended UW-Green Bay, and graduated in 2009 with a degree in Psychology and Human Development.

Following her studies, she interned with Cru, an interdenominational campus ministry, which allowed her to travel extensively and spend time in the Middle East. These diverse experiences ignited a deep passion for helping individuals from all walks of life.

In 2014, Jess was introduced to the ministry of Adult and Teen Challenge, where she accepted a role as a women’s counselor. Her commitment to supporting individuals struggling with life-controlling issues deepened, and she considers it a privilege to be part of their journey toward healing and freedom.

Jess and her husband Kevin relocated to La Crosse in 2017, where they began the pioneering work of Adult and Teen Challenge of Western Wisconsin (ATCWW). As the Program Director, Jess continues to live out her calling by guiding others toward recovery.

Jess is also a devoted mother to two young boys and finds joy in watching them grow. She loves being the soccer mom on Saturday’s and chaperoning school field trips any chance she gets. Being a boy mom requires endless grocery shopping and getting dirty!

Witnessing the life-changing power of Jesus Christ in her family as well as those she serves never gets old to Jess. She firmly believes that no one is ever beyond the reach of God’s grace and has dedicated her life to helping people overcome addiction and embrace true freedom.