Emily joined North Sound ACH in August 2023 as a Grants Specialist. They are inspired in their work by witnessing changes, large and small, being made by ordinary people working in solidarity to transform the world around them. They are passionate about identifying and securing resources for community-focused collaboration, bringing a sense of empowerment in the realm of grants through clear communication and project management strategies. They hold a Bachelor of Arts in Institutions & Policy from William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo.

For many years they lived and worked in Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, which is located on half of an island in SE Asia. Their focus was working on community development programs particularly in women’s empowerment, violence prevention and youth leadership. However, they also experienced many realities of life within a developing country context, such living without running water in communities more than a day’s journey from the nearest doctor. At the same time, they were graciously accepted into community life and enveloped by a cultural fabric that, despite many challenges, is largely intact and embodies principles of community care and mutual aid. They remain connected through volunteering as a board member for the non-profit, non-governmental organization Ba Futuru (“For the Future”) and are excited to make new connections with partner organizations across the North Sound region.