Meet Our Leadership Team

As 

As Director of Payee Services Andy facilitates the management of social security disability benefits for clients located in central Illinois. He began working at Helping Hands in February of 2020 where his focus was connecting local residents with housing, employment, and healthcare. Andy is a Springfield native, graduate of Springfield High School and Eastern Illinois University. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and supporting local businesses.

Jilnita is the R2D2 aka Director of Retention, Recruitment, Development and Direction.  Jil is responsible for staff development activities, monitors housing program practices and acts as point person for Housing for Health interdisciplinary team. She builds on-going relationships and collaborates with community partners in healthcare, government, education and social service agencies. As a past program coordinator, consultant, community organizer and case manager, Jil is motivated by success in service.  “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is What are you doing for others?-Martin Luther King Jr.”  Married with an adult son, Jil enjoys traveling, coloring and a good nap.

Nick Dodson is the Housing Navigator for the Heartland Continuum of Care housed at Helping Hands of Springfield.  Nick is a resource for nonprofits, landlords, and individuals experiencing homelessness utilizing the Emergency Housing Voucher Program. He works to increase the capacity of affordable housing in our community including educating and onboarding landlords into the section 8 program, helps clients find appropriate housing and advocates on the principles of Housing First.   Nick is passionate about his two dogs that he loves dearly, making and eating great food, and around advocating and protecting the environment. He believes that an organized group of passionate individuals can change the world.