Winona Stevens

Executive director and founder

Winona Stevens is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin. Her commitment to serving Native Americans impacted by incarceration led her to launch Native American Reentry Services. Her organization has two programs; the WA State Dept. of Corrections Native American Religious Program and HEAL (Helping Enhance Aboriginal Lives) for Reentry. She is responsible for Native American religious services for all DOC Native American Circles across Washington State.

Winona received her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Washington. She has held many positions which include Adjunct Professor at Northwest Indian College, New Directions Anger Management Group Facilitator, and White Bison Recovery Coach for Intergenerational Trauma and the 12 Step Medicine Wheel Program for Men and Women.

Mrs. Stevens currently serves on a number of boards including Huy, Washington Statewide Reentry Council (Governor appointed Tribal Affairs Rep.), WA Dept. of Corrections Religious Advisory Committee, and the University of Washington’s Native American Advisory Board.

Leandru Willie

Program Manager

Leandru Willie is a member of the Navajo Nation, also known as Diné, from Arizona. Leandru’s journey to managing the statewide Department of Corrections contract began with his own experience of healing through traditional practices, including smudging and ceremony. He later supported NARS as a member of our drum group, attending pow-wows in prisons to support individuals nearing release. As a reentry advocate, he connected individuals to resources such as housing, treatment programs, and education. His work led to his selection to our HEAL Warrior Down Advisory Board, where he continues to provide valuable insights.

Leandru holds an Associate of Arts degree with honors from Pierce College and is set to graduate with a bachelor’s in Law & Policy, and a minor in Human Rights, from the University of Washington Tacoma. He is known for his hard work and dedication.

Beyond his passion for criminal justice reform, Leandru has worked with state legislators and organized voter registration drives to engage students in civic life.

Osceola Fortner

Heal for reentry Case Manager

Osceola Fortner is a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Osceola currently serves as a Case Manager for NARS, where he ensures that cultural and community services are accessible to program participants. He finds fulfillment in supporting reentry, providing case management, and promoting healing. Passionate about continuous learning, Osceola is working towards an Associate of Arts and Science degree, with plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree to better support Indigenous communities. He is also a certified Warrior Down Recovery Coach, incorporating Wellbriety principles into his reentry support.

Having experienced the Iron House first hand, Osceola’s journey to Wellbriety began when he was selected to lead Medicine Wheel and 12-Step classes for his fellow hoop members. Since his release, he has embraced a new life, achieving milestones such as buying a car, obtaining a driver’s license, and gaining custody of his son and granddaughter. These experiences have deepened his commitment to self-sufficiency, a value he strives to pass on to his children.

Osceola also facilitates spiritual and cultural activities, including sweat lodges, Medicine Wheel & 12-Step classes, and distributing traditional medicines to support holistic healing. He hopes to inspire Indigenous youth through sports and cultural events, teaching them the importance of respecting elders and community. His favorite part of his role is fostering a sense of interconnectedness and creating an Indigenized family within his community.