Team

Karin has spent over 20 years working with at-risk youth and social services throughout the Midwest. She’s a Chicago native, but she’s happy to be part of the Cedar Valley community. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and twin boys.

Why House of Hope?

After years of working with at-risk youth and families that are in and out of the shelters, it is incredible to watch a family break away from the struggles that hold them back and fully heal together. Knowing that the work the mom is doing now will open up the possibilities for the children’s future makes every day at the House of Hope worth it.

An Oregon native, Dusky graduated from Portland State University with a BA in Administration of Justice and Sociology. Dusky has over 20 years of experience in social services working in local government and non-profit sectors. In her spare time, she spends time behind her camera as a professional photographer. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and reading a good book.

Why House of Hope?

Breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness has always been a cause I feel strongly about. I love having a front row seat to watching women transform their lives and go on to thrive in our community. 

Lisa has spent the last 24 years working in social services. The Wartburg alum enjoys spending time with her husband, children and horses. You can often find her riding the trails on her days off.

Why House of Hope?

Working with women who want to change their situation, being part of the empowering these families, and getting to see the change is why I am passionate about House of Hope.

Susan was born and raised here in the Cedar Valley. She has over 6 years of experience working with economically challenged children and families, mentoring and teaching financial literacy. Susan loves spending time with her husband, 2 children who are off at college and their pup.

Why House of Hope?

I am passionate about building relationships and believing in a person’s abilities and potential. It’s so rewarding to see, as we call out the good in people, they rise to see new hope in community and themselves!

Shawna is a lifelong resident of the Cedar Valley with a desire to help others succeed. In her spare time, she loves spending time with family. When she’s not at work you can usually find her in a bowling center.

Why House of Hope?

I love the mission of House of Hope. I feel strongly about helping break the cycle of homelessness. I wanted to be part of the team that is helping to make that happen in the Cedar Valley.

Originally from Minnesota, Sara has lived in Iowa for over 17 years; the last 12 of those being here in the Cedar Valley.   Since graduating from North Dakota State University with a degree in Psychology and Sociology/Criminal Justice she has worked and/or volunteered within non-profit, social service and law enforcement agencies.  She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, reading and watching movies.   

Why House of Hope?

After serving on the Board of Directors for House of Hope, I am excited to serve the women, families, and organization in a new way.  Volunteering has always been a passion of mine and having the chance to share that passion with fellow volunteers in support of an organization that empowers women in our community is a dream opportunity.   

Brooke has worked with children and families for over 20 years.  She is very active in the community and enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids.  She also enjoys running with her dogs, yoga, and gathering with friends.

Why House of Hope?

“House of Hope is a perfect fit for me. It truly lights me up when I can help others discover their own unique strengths. To watch as they begin to unlock the potential that they never knew they had. The beauty of House of Hope programming is that we seek to coach others toward self-sufficiency. For sustainable and generational change.”

Maddy grew up in Waterloo and graduated from Liberty University with her bachelor’s degree in social work.  In her free time, she loves to kayak and camp with her husband and son or cozy up with a good book.

Why House of Hope?

I am passionate about creating spaces where people are seen and supported in their growth. I love how House of Hope helps women find their power and lean into their strengths to build healthier families and communities.

Josie recently graduated from UNI with a bachelor’s degree in public relations. In her free time, Josie loves spending time with her husband, hanging out with friends, baking, and volunteering at her church. 

 Why House of Hope?

I had the amazing opportunity of interning at House of Hope during my Senior year. I was faced with a plethora of learning experiences through the amazing staff and volunteers. I want to extend House of Hope’s mission of empowering women and breaking cycles of homelessness to those around me and create space for people to do the same. 

April earned her BA in Sociology with a minor in Social Justice from UNI. Her experience at George’s Local sparked a lasting passion for connecting with people — a passion that continues to guide her work today. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband and friends, watching movies, playing board games and enjoying the outdoors.

Why House of Hope?

I bring a deep commitment to fostering meaningful human connection. My passion for engaging with people led me from the hospitality industry into the nonprofit sector, where I’m thrilled to collaborate with volunteers and community partners. Together, we work to support an organization that empowers individuals and creates lasting impact.