Meet the Team

Samantha Bear, PhD

Executive Director

Samantha Bear brings more than 15 years of experience in inclusive education, postsecondary transition, and community-based programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her work focuses on supporting adults with IDD as they navigate adulthood through meaningful community connection, person-centered planning, and self-determination.

With a background in special education and higher education, Samantha’s experience spans K–12 classrooms, postsecondary programs, and nonprofit leadership. She is deeply committed to equity, disability justice, and reimagining what adulthood can look like for people with IDD. At Blossom, Samantha helps shape thoughtful, inclusive programming that supports independence, belonging, and holistic well-being.

Larissa Kaliszewski

Finance and Development Director

Larissa is an operations and human resources professional with extensive experience supporting nonprofit and community-based organizations. She also has leadership experience in behavioral health services, supervising teams and coordinating care for individuals with complex support needs. Larissa holds a Bachelor of Social Work and brings a mission-driven, people-centered approach to her work.

Larissa is especially passionate about supporting nonprofit work that serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is known for her strong project management and communication skills and is dedicated to strengthening organizations so they can deliver high-quality, inclusive, and compassionate services to the communities they serve.

Sarah Block

Participant Programming Coordinator

Sara Block is Blossom’s Participant Programming Coordinator. With a background in special education and nonprofit leadership, Sara brings a deep commitment to inclusive practices and community-centered programming. She works closely with participants, families, and partners to coordinate experiences that foster connection, confidence, and belonging.

Sara lives in Cedarburg with her husband, their two young sons, and their dog, Señor Sí (also known as Boo-Boo). She is grateful to be part of the Blossom community and passionate about creating spaces where adults with IDD can thrive.

Maddie Bernhardt

Social Media and Marketing Coordinator

Maddie began her work with Blossom as a Mercantile store associate in June 2022 before transitioning into her current role in May 2023. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, Maddie works remotely to support Blossom through storytelling, design, and digital engagement that highlights participant experiences, program impact, and community connection.

Alongside her role at Blossom, Maddie is a full-time occupational therapist supporting youth who have experienced trauma through individual and family therapy in homes, an emergency shelter, and transitional housing settings. Her clinical background strengthens her passion for inclusive, strengths-based support and informs the way she elevates Blossom’s mission of fostering independence, inclusion, and meaningful engagement for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.