Board of Directors
Who We Are
Heidi Flanagan
Early Childhood Development
&
Dance and Performing Arts
Heidi's "Why": It is important to me to make a positive impact in the world. As board members for important organizations like Empowerment Pathways, we have the opportunity to directly contribute to shaping and guiding an organization that positively influences children’s lives. Additionally, by supporting the arts, we help provide children with access to creative outlets, emotional expression, and skills that can benefit them both personally and academically. Arts education is an effective tool for empowerment, especially in underserved communities. As a board member, I can play a key role in advocating for the arts as a vehicle for social change, helping children overcome challenges, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging and self-worth.
I hope to bring some of my valuable skills, connections, and resources to the table. Some areas I hope to assist are fundraising, creating partnerships, or advising on strategic planning. My professional experience and network can help the organization grow, reach more children, and maximize its impact. Working with other passionate and committed board members, I will create a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives and ideas are brought together. This team effort ensures that Empowerment Pathways is innovative and adaptable in its approach to empowering children through the arts.To see Heidi's full resume, click here.
Tiffani Velez
Special Education
&
Language as it relates to Education
Tiffani's "Why": As an educator, who's spent decades working with and advocating for the disability and immigrant communities, I'm thrilled to serve on the board of Empowerment Pathways. Where there is opportunity, there can be equity, and where there is equity dreams are fulfilled. I have a firm belief that it is in a safe, encouraging, community where students learn best, poverty is alleviated, and women feel emboldened to reach their full potential. I am excited to watch Empowerment Pathways grow and serve the traditonally underserved populations of the Lehigh Valley.
To see Tiffani's full resume, click here.
773-676-9377
Brooke Barlow
Social work
&
Children Youth and Families
Brooke's "Why": I began my career working with young children diagnosed with autism, where I quickly learned how not having resources, such as financial stability, a safe home environment, and/or supportive, knowledgeable caregivers, can deeply impact a child’s development. That experience in a classroom setting inspired me to transition from education into social work so that I could make a more direct impact on families and provide more support in their homes. Through my work with Children Youth and Families, I help connect families to resources within their own communities, provide parenting education and safety guidance, and empower them to advocate for themselves and for their children. I strongly believe that when families are supported and informed, they have the ability to thrive. I am passionate about continuing this work and expanding these values into the services that Empowerment Pathways offers. I’m honored to serve as the newest Board Member for Empowerment Pathways, and I look forward to contributing to the organization’s growth in ways that support and empower the community in which I live and serve.
To see Brooke's full resume, click here.
773-676-9377