What do you like to do outside of work (hobbies, sports, interests)?

I have a variety of hobbies and interests. When I am not working, I love riding my dirk bike through the forests of the Black Hills at any season. During the long winter months, I spend my time painting with oils and acrylics. For the past six years, I have also taught Pilates and Strength, and I truly enjoy creating new programs tailored to every body. I am especially interested in holistic wellness practices.

What is a fun fact about you?

I am a CASA member.

What is your favorite snack/treat?

I usually bake my own snacks and treats due to having a gluten allergy, but when I can, I try to get Popcorn Indiana Black & White Fudge Drizzle Popcorn.

What song inspires or motivates you (who sings it)?

A song that inspires me is ‘Best Version of Yourself’ by Lenzspot because the lyrics hold an uplifting message about carrying burdens and feeling alone, but also about a spark inside you that is waiting to be ignited. It is empowering, talks about ownership of your personal journey through life, is optimistic, and brings hope.

What is something you’re proud of and why?

A fun fact about me is that I graduated with my Master’s Degree in under two years. I am proud of this because I was going through a separation, moving back to South Dakota from Texas, and taking care of my father who had Stage 4 cancer. I stayed focused, dedicated, and resilient.

What is your personal and professional journey that led you to Call to Freedom?

My personal and professional journey that led me to Call To Freedom is being part of a spiritual warfare wherever I was. I noticed people needed real advocating and support. I focused on networking with different shelters that focused on IPV and human trafficking. I have worked very hard on speaking up for those who are silenced. With all this said, it brought me to Call to Freedom to which I prayed for.

What kinds of projects are you most excited to work on at Call to Freedom?

Projects I am most excited to work on at Call to Freedom are connection and bridging the gap for those who need support and bringing awareness in the community. I am excited for the western part of South Dakota to know who Call to Freedom is and what we stand for, as well as what we can do.

Why do you believe in the mission of Call to Freedom?

Call to Freedom’s mission is inspiring as it is supporting survivors through a holistic model through a continuum of care and complex healing. Call to Freedom values emphasize dignity, respect and empathy for every person they serve. The mission is shaped by survivor’s input for trauma-informed care by centering survivor voices and has a proven impact for advocacy and awareness.

How do you think your position at Call to Freedom is important to the mission?

As an Outreach Case Manager it is essential to making Call to Freedom’s mission real. We are hands-on workers who connect with survivors, coordinate critical services, advocate for their needs, and walk alongside them as they heal. Without this role, the continuum of care model wouldn’t function effectively as survivors might not get tailored, trauma-informed support they need to move toward wholeness. With this process, I will also be able to effectively collaborate and build community partnerships.