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.

Mary Poupart

HEAL for Reentry Case Manager

Mary Poupart is a member of the Assiniboine Sioux tribe.

Vanessa Whitford

HEAL for Reentry Case Manager

Rebecca Hilton

Employment & Education Specialist

Rebecca Hilton is from the Fort Peck Assinboine Sioux tribe. Her role as the Employment and Education Specialist for Native American Reentry Services highlights her deep connection to her community. With her lived experience and overcoming of numerous obstacles, she is well-positioned to offer guidance and support to others facing similar challenges. Her passion for helping others succeed demonstrates her dedication to improving lives and empowering individuals within her community, ensuring that they too can break through barriers and achieve success.

Jesus Ancheta

Cultural Specialist

Jesus Ancheta, a proud member of the Cowichan First Nations, is the Cultural Specialist at Native American Reentry Services, where I dedicate my life’s work to fostering healing and community engagement. Drawing deeply from my rich cultural heritage and personal experiences, I am committed to guiding individuals through their journey of reentry into society, offering them pathways to rebuild their lives with purpose and resilience.

Through my role, I facilitate a variety of culturally centered programs, including Wellbriety 12 Steps meetings, talking circles, and traditional crafting activities such as drumming and beading. Each of these ceremonies and activities serves as a vital pillar of connection and healing for community members, providing safe spaces where individuals can share stories, form support networks, and cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their cultures.

A crucial aspect of my work involves organizing ceremonial sweat lodges, a sacred practice that promotes holistic healing—mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. I understand firsthand the transformative power of these practices, having spent 16 years incarcerated. My personal journey through profound change and healing embodies the hope I now extend to others.

My commitment to my community goes beyond facilitation. I advocate for the importance of cultural connection as a cornerstone for change, engaging actively in dialogues that bridge gaps between cultural identity and modern societal challenges. My lived experiences equipped me with unique insights and empathy, strengthening my mission to create environments where former inmates can reclaim their lives with dignity.

Adel Fortner

administrative Assistant

Adel Fortner is is a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.