WHO WE ARE

Empowering Families is a 501(c)3 non-profit, building a community of belonging through education, civic participation, and bridge-building in the Panhandle of Nebraska.

Our Mission

Empowering Families is building a community of belonging in the Panhandle of Nebraska. Through education, civic participation, and bridge-building, we create spaces where every voice matters and every individual is empowered to thrive.

Our Vision

We envision a future where the Panhandle community of Nebraska shines as a place of belonging and strength. A community where every person’s voice and contribution help weave a vibrant tapestry of unity, hope, and shared purpose.

Our Values

Celebrating Cultures 

Grassroots Advocacy 

Community Driven Civic Engagement 

Creating Educational Opportunities 

Building Trust & Supportive Relationships

Uniting Communities

Empowering Families’ Staff

  • Valeria Rodriguez, Executive Director of Empowering Families, holds a B.A. in Spanish and Political Science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska–Omaha. She co-founded Empowering Families in 2018, driven by a passion for community advocacy and building collective power.

    From 2021 to 2025, Valeria served as a Department of Justice Accredited Representative with the Immigrant Legal Center, providing essential legal services across the Panhandle. She also serves on the boards of the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table and Panhandle Partnership.

    Valeria’s leadership is defined by her unwavering commitment to empowering communities, fostering civic engagement, and advocating for meaningful change.

  • A native of Scottsbluff, NE, Maricia discovered her passion for community service through the 4-H P.R.I.D.E. program in high school. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and dedicated her career to supporting and retaining students in higher education.

    Maricia served two years at UNL’s Office of Academic Success & Intercultural Services and six years at Western Nebraska Community College, earning her Master’s in Education (Student Affairs) in 2018. In Fall 2022, she joined Minatare Public Schools as a School Counselor.

    Since Empowering Families’ founding in 2018, Maricia has been an integral member of the organization. Her commitment is rooted in the belief that Empowering Families strengthens and empowers the Panhandle community.

Board of Directors

  • Dr. Wendy Kemling-Horner has dedicated over 27 years to the field of education, working as the Executive Director of Student Services at Scottsbluff Public Schools since 2006. With a passion for service, Wendy has volunteered for Special Olympics for the past 35 years, advocating for individuals with special needs. Active in the community, Wendy serves on several boards, including Panhandle Beginnings, LifeLink, NASES, and Northfield Haven. Holding a Doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Wendy is committed to advancing educational opportunities and making a positive impact on youth both in the classroom and beyond.

  • Faith Mills is the Executive Director of Panhandle Partnership, Inc. serving the eleven rural and frontier counties of the Nebraska Panhandle. The Partnership’s mission is to collaborate among agencies, networks and the broader community to find creative solutions to improve the quality of life of people and communities in the Panhandle. Faith grew up in Colorado, studied music and English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and began her career doing National Service with AmeriCorps. She worked in the behavioral health field for 15 years and has been involved with the Panhandle Partnership in one way or another for over a decade. Faith has extensive experience building and working across systems and is committed to innovative, collaborative, systemic work.

  • Sarah is a valuable addition to the Empowering Families Board since July 2021, is dedicated to community education and civic engagement. As an educator in Scotts Bluff County, she channels her passion into helping students unlock their full potential daily. Raised in east/central Wyoming, Sarah earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a Public Relations emphasis and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from Chadron State College, Nebraska. Her teaching certificate is from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. Sarah's commitment to Empowering Families reflects her desire to extend her impact beyond the classroom, making a positive difference in both her students' lives and the community at large.

  • Isabel Moreno is the Executive Director of the St. Agnes Catholic School Foundation, where she focuses on ensuring the long-term financial stability of the school. In addition to her leadership role, Isabel is a proud entrepreneur and the owner of two thriving small businesses in downtown Scottsbluff. Through her work, she has played a pivotal role in bringing new Latino-owned businesses to the Valley, fostering inclusivity and economic growth.

    Isabel’s entrepreneurial journey has allowed her to build strong connections with diverse members of the community. Her passion for the growth and success of Empowering Families extends beyond business; she actively serves on multiple community committees, using her skills in networking and business expertise to drive positive change.

    Whether advocating for education, supporting local businesses, or championing community initiatives, Isabel is dedicated to helping her community thrive and empowering others to achieve their goals.

  • Maria Alvizar, Guadalupe Olivas, Rebecca Estrada, Jackie Guzman, Maricia Guzman, and Valeria Rodriguez

Support Empowering Families Today!

Support Empowering Families. Together, we strengthen education, build connections, and create a stronger Panhandle community.

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