The Northern Lakes Impact Center is dedicated to serving people through our innovative programs and partnerships in hopes that each of our participants will walk away with an increase in awareness, an expansion of knowledge, and a new appreciation for self, others, and the environment.
One of our main goals here at the Northern Lakes Impact Center is to create an inviting atmosphere where teachable moments can be used to change the lives of our nation’s youth. We focus on the details, logistics, and teaching so that the group leaders can focus on encouraging their students and growing alongside of them. We serve teachers, athletic coaches, corporate companies, youth groups, and everything in between!
Maria began her adventure in camping as a Ropes Course Facilitator working with "At-Risk" and "Alternative to Incarceration" youth in Michigan after she graduated college. That summer solidified her love of the outdoors and started her fascination with all things Outdoor Education and Teambuilding. Now, over 20 years later, armed with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master's in Organizational Development, Maria is still excited to show a group of students the amazing wonders that await discovery in the natural world. Maria’s responsibilities have shifted slightly to more administrative duties as she became the executive director of Northern Lakes Partners in 2015, but she never misses the chance to hang out in the High Ropes Course, encouraging participants of all ages to try one more step. When Maria is not running around camp, she loves to travel and hang out with her husband, Barry, and their two teenagers.
Jonathan Kowatch was born and raised in Wausau, Wisconsin. After graduating from highschool, Jonathan spent his summers working for Northern Lakes Partners. He loved the work so much that in 2021 he decided to join our staff team as a Program Assistant. Jonathan is passionate about teaching and working with youth. He loves to engage in conversations and answer all their big questions. In Jonathan's free time you will find him running, biking, or playing tabletop games.
Angie was born and raised in Minnesota, a great place to foster a love for forested areas and playing outside. As Angie grew up, she began to dream about someday raising a family in the Northwoods. After marrying her husband, Jeremy, they moved to Duluth, Minnesota. It took a few years, but eventually Angie’s dream of living in the Northwoods came true when she started working for Northern Lakes Partners in 2001. Angie has over 20 years of accounting experience and enjoys the work she does for Northern Lakes Impact Center. In Angie’s free time, you will find her at home, being a rock star mom to her three daughters.