MEET OUR TEAM

Meet the People Behind Fortitude

Heather Kittelson

Founder & CEO

Heather Kittelson is the founder of Fortitude Ministries, a speaker, podcast host, wife, mother of four, and educator. Her story is rooted in healing, recovery, and the faithfulness of God, and she creates space for honest stories, real faith, and hope for homes and families.

Amos Kittelson

Co-Founder

Amos Kittelson is the co-founder of Fortitude Ministries, a husband, father, Air Force veteran, and entrepreneur. He brings steady leadership, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to faith, family, and helping Fortitude grow with care.

Allesia Kolles

Ministry Partner & Retreat Facilitator

Allesia Kolles is a ministry leader, worshipper, wellness coach, and founder of Arise and Shine Ministries. She serves women and youth through discipleship, REST classes, retreats, and spiritual encouragement. Through her partnership with Fortitude Ministries, Allesia helps create spaces where women can slow down, encounter God, and find renewal with honesty, care, and purpose.

Kuol Malou

Creative & Marketing Director

Kuol Malou is a marketing and narrative strategist supporting Fortitude Ministries through digital communications, story structure, and brand development. He helps shape Fortitude’s message feels clear, honest, warm, and easy to follow.

ABOUT US

MEET OUR BOARD DIRECTORS

Fortitude Ministries is supported by a board of leaders who believe in honest faith, real stories, and healing that reaches homes, families, and communities.

Each board member brings wisdom, service, leadership experience, and a shared commitment to helping Fortitude grow with faith, care, and integrity.

Jason Appel

Board Member
Community President, First International Bank & Trust

Jason lives in Sioux Falls with his wife, Jamie, and their three children. He serves as Community President of First International Bank & Trust in Sioux Falls and also serves on faith-based nonprofit boards focused on youth development and community services.

WHY I SERVE

“I support and serve on the Fortitude Ministries Board because I want to see the world continue to heal. I believe the mission of Fortitude points directly to helping people heal and overcome through a relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Jeanine Hoff Lubben

Board Member
Founder, Live Brave Foundation

Jeanine is a wife, mom of two boys, stepmom to three, and founder of the Live Brave Foundation. She is passionate about philanthropy, service, and strengthening families through faith, education, housing, healthcare, and community support.

WHY I SERVE

“I believe women need other women. My prayer is to see God revive the heartbeat of the home through this ministry and strengthen families from the inside out.”

Joe Bunkers

Board Member
Owner, Convergent Peak Growth Advisory

Joe is the owner of Convergent Peak Growth Advisory, where he helps leaders grow with purpose, clarity, vulnerability, and trust. He is also a Vistage Chair and previously served as CEO of Gage Brothers, bringing deep experience in leadership, operations, coaching, and organizational growth.

WHY I SERVE

“I support and serve on the Fortitude Ministries Board because it is a small way I can make a big impact. Fortitude Ministries is changing women’s lives, and Heather’s spark is guiding it.”