Who We Are

Laurie Abernathy

– School Board Member, Indianola Public Schools
– Licensed daycare provider
Laurie brings strong relationships with key members of the community to the Board. She is well-known in this community for education advocacy and has decades of experience in ensuring the community’s youth have access to resources that promote success.

Joe Gezel

Dorothy has decades of experience in working with children and is especially known for her ability to provide care for children with disabilities and other challenges. Joe is highly connected to the community through his recent position as a City Council Member. The Gezels are experienced landlords and own several rental properties. Both have strong experience in networking in order to meet the needs of vulnerable members of our community. The Gezels have been integral in educating our community about Warren County’s homeless population and securing interest of the religious community, existing service providers, community leaders, and philanthropic organizations in partnering with HEAL House of Iowa’s mission. Joe serves on the Iowa Governor’s Advisory Council on Homelessness.

Mitzi Gezel

Jo Byers

– Lifelong resident of Indianola
Jo has many years of experience in supporting the community through her active participation and leadership with Trinity United Presbyterian Church in Indianola. She is a coordinator and organizer at heart. and holds the philosophy inspired by her father. Jo works directly with the HEAL House of Iowa Volunteer Team to ensure the Guests’ exposure and access to our best and invested community members.

Dorothy Gezel

Dorothy has decades of experience in working with children and is especially known for her ability to provide care for children with disabilities and other challenges. Joe is highly connected to the community through his recent position as a City Council Member. The Gezels are experienced landlords and own several rental properties. Both have strong experience in networking in order to meet the needs of vulnerable members of our community. The Gezels have been integral in educating our community about Warren County’s homeless population and securing interest of the religious community, existing service providers, community leaders, and philanthropic organizations in partnering with HEAL House of Iowa’s mission. Joe serves on the Iowa Governor’s Advisory Council on Homelessness.

Doug Shull

Doug has decades of philanthropic, leadership, and financial experience. He is highly connected to the community and our community’s leaders. Doug provides financial and regulatory oversight of the HEAL House of Iowa to ensure the organization remains exemplary stewards of every grant dollar and contribution.

Nicole Tenges

Nicole joins the board in a advocacy role. Nicole has professional experience and training in financial management. She oversees the HEAL House of Iowa budget, account management, and ensures that the organization meets regulatory requirements.