I am in my fifth year lobbying the Colorado General Assembly with Mendez, Barkis & Associates. I represent clients engaging on policies affecting criminal justice reform, the environment, housing accessibility and affordability, services for people with disabilities and the homeless, and protections for employee and consumers. Unlike many in my line of work, I have the good fortune to tackle issues that align with my values, while establishing meaningful relationships with those elected to make decisions that impact us all. This proximity allows me to successfully advance policies that can improve the lives of my family, friends, and neighbors. It’s demanding, chaotic work and I enjoy it greatly.
In Ardent Grove, I see an opportunity to serve my community in a completely different capacity. It’s no secret that accessing quality mental health services is far too difficult for far too many, and we all know someone who would benefit from additional support. It’s an unfortunate reality that demands our attention. The chance to help grow an organization that seeks to meet that challenge head on in creative and effective ways is inspiring and appreciated. I’m humbled to be on the team.
Before joining Mendez, Barkis & Associates, I worked for the Democratic caucus at the Colorado State Senate – serving on the staff consecutive senate presidents. The experience affirmed in me the capacity for individuals to affect change on a broad scale and the importance for policymakers to hear from and be held accountable by their constituents. Prior to that, I was Program Director for the Ngaathaje Development Organization; a small nonprofit providing aid to refugees returning to South Sudan after it gained independence in the wake of the Sudanese Civil War. My time delivering supplies to primary school students there was as challenging as it was fulfilling, and a period of considerable personal growth.
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