We are thrilled to spotlight the remarkable individuals who have completed the EmpowerU program and are now part of our Empowered Alumni community. Their journeys of growth,
self-advocacy, and connection continue to inspire us all.
Alex W.
Alex is a college student who began his higher education journey during the EmpowerU cohort. Through the program, he developed advocacy and goal-setting skills, boosting his confidence to pursue opportunities previously considered out of reach due to his disability. Alex is committed to completing his college education with the goal of becoming a disability lawyer. He is also actively working to regain his right to vote, demonstrating his dedication to self-advocacy and civic engagement.
Casey R.
Casey is a creative individual with a passion for music, art, and writing. He enjoys singing, drawing, and designing original characters, often inspired by his love for anime. Casey has a keen interest in fashion and is known for his stylish choices. Through EmpowerU, he has strengthened his ability to build connections with friends and is actively pursuing opportunities in programs that align with his goals.
Cassie C.
A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, Cassie works part-time as a teacher assistant at a Developmental Preschool Center. She has been attending Community College since 2014 and is on track to graduate in May 2028 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies. Cassie is actively involved in the Special Olympics, participating in activities like bowling and swimming. Through EmpowerU, she has gained confidence and enhanced her self-advocacy skills, which have positively impacted both her academic and professional pursuits.
Dallas C.
Dallas is a dedicated and creative individual with a passion for baseball and music. He plays baseball with the Miracle League of Arizona and enjoys practicing guitar, with “Blackbird” by The Beatles being one of the first songs he mastered. Through EmpowerU, he has strengthened his time management skills, become more social, and is working toward securing a job to further his independence.
Denver L.
Denver is a dedicated and creative individual with a passion for Lego building, gaming, and cosplaying. After graduating in May 2024, he enrolled in Community College to further his education. Through the EmpowerU program, Denver enhanced his communication skills and gained confidence in himself. He also developed his cooking and baking abilities and is now eager to explore new opportunities to acquire additional skills.
Edward W.
Edward is a dedicated caregiver with over a decade of experience supporting adults with special needs, a path inspired by his late mother. He has a strong background in community involvement, having served as the mascot for Mesa Community College and professional sports teams, where he energized events and supported athletic programs. Edward is also a certified energy healer and hypnotist, utilizing techniques like tuning forks to assist others. He continually seeks personal growth opportunities and finds relaxation through flotation therapy.
Emily M.
Emily is a creative and empathetic individual with a passion for art, writing, and gaming. Her journey through EmpowerU has been marked by significant achievements, including re-enrolling in high school to complete her diploma and forming meaningful friendships along the way. Emily’s future aspirations include graduating, possibly attending prom, and exploring various career opportunities that align with her diverse interests.
Kai S.
Kai is a confident man who values kindness, hard work, trust, boldness, bravery, creativity, and optimism. Through EmpowerU, he has enhanced his self-advocacy skills and embraced new possibilities. A significant growth moment for Kai was connecting with peers in the cohort, inspiring him to pursue leadership and public speaking opportunities. His short-term goals include continuous learning, seeking employment, and engaging in leadership roles, while his long-term aspiration is to become a barber.
Lily G.
Lily is a creative individual with a passion for gaming, photography, LEGO building, and painting. Her journey through EmpowerU has been marked by significant academic improvement. Lily’s future aspirations include securing a fulfilling job and exploring career paths in criminal justice or veterinary medicine, demonstrating her commitment to personal growth and diverse interests.
Naylia M.
Naylia is an adventurous individual who delights in exploring new places and building connections with diverse people. With a fondness for pink and all things sparkly, she brings a vibrant energy to her interactions. Surrounded by her two sisters, two cats, and three dogs, Naylia cherishes family moments. Her aspirations include traveling the world to experience its myriad cultures and landscapes.
William C.
William is a dedicated individual with a passion for fitness, video gaming, and sports. As a graduate of Mountain Pointe High School, Success University, and the EPIC EmpowerU program, he has demonstrated a commitment to personal growth and community involvement. William has qualified for the Valley Metro RideShare program, enhancing his independence. His future aspirations include living independently, making a positive impact in the lives of people with disabilities, and serving as a board member for EPIC.
