Economic Empowerment Manager, CAPLP – Lakes and Prairies Community Action
Q: Tell us about yourself
A: In my professional world, I am an Economic Empowerment Manager at CAPLP – Lakes and Prairies Community Action. In this role, I oversee teams of amazing staff who provide coaching and case management services to customers in many different program areas that ultimately support individuals in working to achieve goals and end the cycle of generational poverty for themselves and their families. It is an honor to work for a community action agency and to be a part of the fight in the war on poverty each and every day. In my personal world, I am a proud mama to two wonderful daughters and one sweet dog. I have an amazing partner and the most incredible family and friends. I love staying active with hot yoga, soaking up summer days at the lake, and unwinding with a good book or cozy puzzle. Whether it is game nights, spontaneous adventures, or simple moments together, I value making meaningful memories with family and friends and finding happiness in the little things.
Q: What inspired you to get involved in your community at a young age?
A: My inspiration to serve my community began at a young age, rooted in the environment I was raised in. I grew up surrounded by family members who dedicated their lives to helping others, and I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the compassion, work ethic, and selflessness they brought to others every day. Watching them care deeply for people— often in moments of vulnerability—left a lasting impression on me and shaped my understanding of what it truly means to serve. As I grew older, that early exposure evolved into a deep personal passion for bettering the lives of those around me in any way that I can. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with the utmost dignity, respect, and opportunity, regardless of their circumstances. Giving back is not something I see as an obligation, but as a responsibility and a privilege. Being involved in my community allows me to live out those values and contribute to creating spaces where people feel supported, seen, and valued.
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: The most influential mentor in my life is my mom. She is the embodiment of hard work, resilience, strength, and courage. For nearly 30 years, she has consistently shown up in service of the community action movement, dedicating her life to supporting others and working tirelessly to create lasting, positive change in our community. Her commitment is not situational; it is genuinely deeply rooted in who she is and the values that she lives by every day. Throughout her life, she has faced incredible hardship and endured profound loss, yet she has never allowed those experiences to define her in a limiting way. Instead, she has grown stronger, more compassionate, and more determined. She is truly the definition of resilience. She is someone who transforms adversity into purpose and continues moving forward with grace and genuineness. Watching her lead with empathy and remain steadfast in her mission has shaped my own values and inspired my passion for service.
Q: What does success look like to you right now?
A: Success to me right now looks like showing up every day fully present for my family, as a supportive, loving, calm, and joyful person. It means creating a home that feels safe, comforting, and peaceful, where my children feel deeply loved and supported, and where happiness is rooted in connection rather than perfection. Building our family on these values of love, stability, and emotional security is the foundation of what success truly means to me. At the same time, success also means continuing to grow and work hard as a professional within my community. I find purpose in serving others and contributing to positive change, and I want my daughters to witness that commitment firsthand. By doing meaningful work and living out these values daily, I hope to instill in them the importance of compassion, resilience, and service—teaching them not only through works, but through example. For me, success is truly built with intention, love, and impact, both at home and in the community.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step. So often, we delay growth because we’re waiting for clarity, confidence, or certainty that may only come after we begin what is next. This has helped me make very important strides in my life.
Q: Why is our local United Way important to you?
A: Our local United Way is important to me because I believe strong communities are built when individuals and families are supported, connected, and given access to the resources they need to thrive. United Way’s commitment to addressing real, everyday challenges, whether related to housing stability, access to healthcare, education, or basic needs, aligns closely with my values and passion for helping others. I admire the way United Way brings people together, strengthens local partnerships, and creates meaningful and lasting change!
