In 2026, Empower Missouri is celebrating 125 Years of People-Powered Policy Change. Our long history of fighting for (and winning!) policy changes that will improve lives for all Missourians wouldn’t be possible without the staff, coalition members and other partner organizations, Board members, and other advocates and volunteers behind our work, and we’ll be spotlighting many of them throughout the year. In celebration of her one year anniversary as part of our staff, check out our Q&A with Communications Manager Natalie Wilkins below. Congratulations Natalie, we’re so happy to have you on the team!
How did you first hear about Empower Missouri, and what inspired you to get involved?
I first heard about Empower Missouri when I moved here just a year ago. New to the state, I felt inspired to learn more about my new home, its communities, and what we can do to make change.
What drives your motivation for advocacy, even on the hard days?
The motivation for a better tomorrow for not just myself and my family, but for everyone else too.
If you could pick one policy change that we could make next, what would it be and why?
School lunches for ALL Missouri students and investing in our student’s futures.
Describe Empower Missouri in three words.
Outspoken, Community, Change
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