- 8500 210th St W #148, Lakeville, MN 55044
- kota@kotaconnections.net
- 952·469·1555
- 8500 210th St W, Suite 148, Lakeville, MN 55044
- kota@kotaconnections.net
- 952·469·1555
Kota Connections is run by a small, long-tenured group of direct support staff, many of whom have been here for a decade or more. The person who picks someone up is the same person who knows their goals, their routines, and what makes them laugh.
David founded Kota Connections in 1992 and has led the organization every year since. Under his direction Kota earned APSE's 2020 Organizational Best Practice Award and has maintained a continuously active Minnesota DHS 245D license, building a small, family-run team where every client and every staff member is known by name.
Listed by time with Kota, longest-serving first. Each person drives the vehicle shown on their card, so clients and caregivers always know who's arriving.
Kerri Jo has supported individuals through Kota Connections since 2002 and brings more than two decades of experience to her role. She is passionate about helping people recognize their abilities, build confidence, and achieve personal success, watching individuals grow and accomplish their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
Outside of Kota, she stays busy with her three children and enjoys watching and playing sports. During the summer you'll often find her on a softball field, either cheering on her daughter or coaching.
JD has been part of the Kota Connections team since 2004 and is passionate about helping individuals build confidence, gain independence, and achieve personal goals. His calm demeanor and strong problem-solving skills help create positive experiences for both clients and families.
Outside of work, JD enjoys spending time with his wife, Jamie, and their three children. He loves staying active, playing sports, and cheering on Minnesota teams.
Nick has been part of the Kota Connections team since 2016 and enjoys helping individuals explore new opportunities, build confidence, and stay engaged in their communities. He values creating a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable trying new experiences and developing friendships.
A lifelong Lakeville resident, Nick enjoys following sports, recreational activities, and spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoys community outings and helping clients discover new places throughout the area.
Krista has been part of the Kota Connections team since 2017 and is passionate about helping individuals build confidence, develop long-term relationships, and stay connected within their communities. She values creating supportive environments where clients can explore their strengths and express themselves in meaningful ways.
In addition to her role at Kota, Krista works as a Victim Advocate in Dakota County. Outside of work she enjoys traveling and spending time with her two daughters, along with their dog, Jindo, and cats, Miso and Geomi.
Pattie joined Kota Connections in 2024 and enjoys being part of an organization that feels like family. She values building genuine relationships with clients and helping create opportunities for connection, growth, and community involvement.
Outside of work, Pattie enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, crafting, and visiting zoos. Some of her favorite Kota activities include coaching softball and cheering on clients as they take part in the activities they enjoy.
Amy joined Kota Connections in 2025 and enjoys building meaningful relationships with the individuals she supports. She believes that taking time to learn about each person's interests, hobbies, and goals helps create a sense of trust and comfort.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending time with her dog, Dexter. Summer is her favorite season, you'll often find her fishing on a Minnesota lake or relaxing around a bonfire. One of her favorite Kota activities is attending dances and seeing clients connect, laugh, and have fun.
Holly joined Kota Connections in 2025 and enjoys building strong connections with the individuals she supports. She believes that trust, encouragement, and focusing on a person's strengths are key to helping people gain confidence and achieve their goals.
When she's not working, Holly enjoys hiking with her dog, Toby, spending time with friends, and running Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. She is also active in community theater and looks forward to the Renaissance Festival each summer.
Dawn joined Kota Connections in 2025 and is committed to helping individuals feel supported, respected, and included. She enjoys creating positive experiences that encourage confidence, independence, and community connections.
Outside of work, Dawn enjoys spending time with her family and staying involved in her community. One of her favorite Kota memories was attending the Demolition Derby at the Dakota County Fairgrounds and seeing the excitement shared by clients throughout the event.
I work full time at Augsburg University as a Manager in Athletic Facilities. I'm based in the Ice Arena, and have been there since September 1994. FUN FACT - I can drive the Zamboni - and make a pretty good sheet of ice! LOL! I'm married with 2 bonus daughters (and sons-in-law) and 4 grandkids - all are awesome! I met my husband and future family through softball despite being one of the most unathletic people you will ever meet. Quilting is both therapy and a creative outlet for me. I love cruises. I can lose myself in a book for hours, and nothing beats a great movie or game night with family. I'm horribly afraid of spiders - any size, and heights - anything over the third rung on a ladder. I don't like cooking or flying (but love to travel, go figure) and could sit and watch fireflies for hours. Did I mention I love cruises?