Board of Directors
Independent Housing Initiative is led by an independent board of directors composed of passionate parents and highly-respected professionals from multiple industries.
Jack Jacobson, President
Jack has more than 30 years of experience representing national and local tenants in the acquisition of office space for corporate headquarters and branch offices. He also develops and implements successful strategies for the sale of investment assets and surplus properties for institutional and individual owners.
In addition to his service for Independent Housing Initiative, Jack’s volunteer activities include: COA: Board of Directors, Member of Executive Committee; and, Friendship Circle of Wisconsin, Board of Directors, Finance Committee. Jack has a BA from The University of Massachusetts, Amherst and an MS from Simmons College.
Terry Miller, Vice President
Terry is a special educator with more than 45 years of experience in the field. She has a bachelor’s degree from Colorado College and a master’s degree from NYU. She is presently working with adults with disabilities. Terry is dedicated to helping to create housing where adults with disabilities can live in an independent environment while being part of a community.
Terry has served as a volunteer on many boards including Yeshiva Elementary School’s Board of Education, Jewish Family Services and Beth Hamedrosh Hagodel Cemetery in Milwaukee. She serves on the board of Camp Kaylie and Ohel’s national board.
Lorry Stein, Treasurer
Lawrence (Lorry) Stein is an accountant. He graduated from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. He has experience in both the municipal and the private sectors of accounting. He established his own tax and accounting business more than 40 years ago. Five years ago, along with his son, formed a company to invest and manage commercial properties in the Milwaukee area.
His volunteer activities include: Independent Housing Initiative, Inc. ,Treasurer; Bishop Woods Association, Treasurer; Past Treasurer of various condo associations; member of two cemetery boards; and, Friendship Circle participant.
Shari Weingrod, Secretary
Shari Weingrod was a professional piano tuner and technician in Wisconsin for 45 years, having apprenticed at the Bosendorfer Piano Factory in Vienna, Austria. She ran her own business (Piano Gallery) in Milwaukee, where she managed all piano services and represented customers selling high quality, older American pianos on consignment. The Piano Gallery hosted local musical and art events, as well as a non-profit Piano Series showcasing international concert performers.
She is a dedicated mom to Molly, a therapist, who lives with her family in Philadelphia, PA, and to Sol, deceased at age 40. Shari spent many of her parenting years advocating for Sol, who was a special needs child/adult.
Shari was one of 4 founders of the Community for Housing Task Force for people with IDD, which brought new awareness to Wisconsin communities of the serious need for lifelong, high quality living environments. She is dedicated to ensuring that this new type of housing for this population continues to be supported and created all over the USA.
Past and current volunteer involvement includes: numerous Arts Boards in Milwaukee, WI; Artist Series at the Pabst; Ruach; and Friendship Circle of Wisconsin Board Member.
Debra Gorra Barash, Director
Debra is a seasoned executive and entrepreneur who brings over 40 years of experience working alongside individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds and abilities. As an Executive Director, business owner, consultant, trainer, and American Sign Language Interpreter, she combines financial acumen with a deep commitment to organizational excellence and inclusivity. Debra’s strategic vision and hands-on leadership have consistently driven sustainable growth, regulatory compliance, and strengthened community partnerships.
With a rare blend of hands-on experience, academic credentials, advocacy, and a genuine commitment to people, Debra continues to empower organizations to achieve their missions while maintaining the highest standards of fiscal responsibility and ethical conduct. A passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, Debra actively volunteers with local nonprofits that support individuals with disabilities and underserved populations.
Debra is honored to share her talents with IHI in helping to achieve its goals and make a meaningful contribution to this community.
Howard Callif, Director
Howard is honored to serve on the IHI board and contribute to such a wonderful organization. IHI’s mission of empowering individuals to live independently and flourish deeply resonates with him, as it directly impacts his nephew, cousins, and their friends.
In his professional role, he works as a Principal and Product Champion at Milliman, where he leverages his analytical skills to drive strategic initiatives and product development. He is eager to apply this expertise to help IHI achieve its goals and make a meaningful difference in the community.
When he’s not working, you can find him spending time with his family, rock climbing, or on a bike trail.
Bonnie Helfgott Krisztal, Director
Bonnie has more than 40 years of experience as a lawyer primarily in the area of advising healthcare facilities. She has served as in-house counsel to various healthcare entities including mental health, long-term care, and primary care facilities. She has extensive experience serving on various non-profit boards. In addition, she serves as a court appointed Guardian Ad Litem in Milwaukee County for individuals with disabilities.
Her volunteer activities have included: Past President and Board Member, RUACH, Inc.; Past Vice President and Board Member, Torah Academy of Milwaukee; and, Board Member, Jewish Federation of Milwaukee.
Bonnie has a law degree from Washington University School of Law and a master’s in health administration from Washington University School of Medicine.
Sarah McCutcheon, Director
Sarah McCutcheon currently serves as the Disability Inclusion Director at the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center, where she leads efforts to foster inclusive environments and advocate for individuals of all abilities. With over 10 years of experience in the field of inclusion, Sarah has held various roles dedicated to creating accessible, welcoming spaces across educational, recreational, and community settings. Her passion for building inclusive communities is matched by her commitment to collaboration and systemic change. As a board member, Sarah brings her deep dedication to ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to live independently..