About Us
About Empowered Services
Our Goal is Empowerment
Finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment can be challenging in a world that often feels overwhelming and uncertain. But what if you could make a difference in someone’s life, every single day? What if you could help empower individuals with special needs to live happier, more fulfilling lives?
At Empowered Services, that’s exactly what we do. We are a team of dedicated professionals passionate about supporting individuals with special needs and their families. Our mission is to provide the highest level of care and support to help our clients thrive.
But our work goes beyond just providing care. We believe in empowering our clients to live their lives to the fullest. We work tirelessly to connect individuals and families with the resources they need to reach their goals and achieve their dreams. Our approach is personalized and compassionate, ensuring that each person receives the support they need to succeed.
Whether it’s helping a child with special needs access educational resources or supporting an adult with disabilities in their quest for independence, our team is committed to positively impacting the lives of those we serve. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a happy and fulfilling life, and we are dedicated to making that a reality for our clients.
So if you’re looking for a way to make a real difference in the world, consider joining the Empowered Services team. Whether you’re a caregiver, administrative professional, or passionate advocate, we have a place for you. Together, we can help empower individuals with special needs to live their best lives and improve our world.
We aim to empower, inspire, support, and provide opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Oregon. Our trained Direct Support Providers (DSPs) empower and enhance lives with necessary life skills. We work closely with our customers, guardians, and families to establish and accomplish self-directed goals to thrive at home and in the community.
Who We Are
John
FOUNDER & CEO
John says, “When we offer support so that customers are empowered, and the family’s weight is lifted, we are making a difference and making our world a better place!”
Sandi
Chief Operating Officer
I am absolutely over the moon to introduce myself as the newest addition to the Empowered Services family, stepping into the role of COO (Chief Operating Officer). From the moment I set foot in this incredible team, I’ve felt an overwhelming sense of belonging and camaraderie, like I’ve found my second home.
Allow me to share a little piece of my heart with you, so we can truly feel like family. I hail from the charming town of Newberg, where I was born and raised amidst the beauty of its rolling hills and warm community spirit. Family holds the key to my heart—I’m not just a proud wife but also a blessed mother of three wonderful grown boys, each one a testament to the love and joy that fills our home.
My career has been deeply rooted in serving others, particularly those in the disabilities community. For twelve amazing years, I’ve had the privilege of working in various roles—from Special Education classrooms to IDD foster homes and as a DSP. These experiences have not only shaped my professional path but have also ignited a fire within me to help individuals discover and embrace the best versions of themselves.
At home, my heart is filled with the pitter-patter of paws and the occasional disgruntled meow. With five rescue dogs and two cats, our household is a bustling haven of furry love and endless cuddles. When I’m not immersed in the joys of family and furry companionship, you’ll often find me indulging in my favorite hobbies—crocheting away, sharing laughs with loved ones, and basking in the simple pleasures of life.
I couldn’t be more thrilled to embark on this journey with the Empowered Services team, where I’m eager to channel my knowledge, passion, and unwavering commitment to support and uplift our community. Remember, if you ever find yourself in need of assistance or simply wish to connect, my inbox is always open at sandi@empowered-services.org. Let’s walk this path together, as one big, loving family.
I hope you have a beautiful day!
Empowered Services Core Values
Building Trust through Honesty
Who We Are
Meet Our Amazing Team
At Empowered Services, we are more than just a team – we are a family of compassionate and dedicated individuals who share a passion for helping others. We understand that providing the highest level of care and support to our customers and caregivers is not just about having the right skills and experience, but also about having a heart that truly cares. That’s why each member of our team has been carefully selected for their exceptional skills, professionalism, and, most importantly, their genuine compassion for others.
From our caregivers to our administrative staff, everyone on our team is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of our clients and their families. We understand that every individual is unique and has different needs, which is why we tailor our services to meet each person’s specific requirements. Our team members are experts in their respective fields and are always eager to learn and improve.
Whether it’s providing compassionate care, offering emotional support, or handling administrative tasks, each member of our team is passionate about empowering our clients and caregivers to lead fulfilling and independent lives. We take pride in our work and are committed to upholding the highest standards of excellence in everything we do.
So, if you are looking for a team that truly cares, Empowered Services is the right choice for you. Let us show you what we can do to help you or your loved ones lead a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
Joshua
Recruitment Lead
Meet Joshua, our Recruitment Lead, who is enriched with an impressive background in quality control and a strong commitment to volunteerism. As a lifelong Oregonian, his passion for community service is deeply rooted, highlighted by his remarkable tenure as one of the youngest volunteer Firefighter/EMT-Basics in the Oregon Outback Rural Fire Protection District alongside his father. Their contributions were pivotal in establishing the department’s foundational infrastructure, integrating it into the Klamath County 911 system, and securing its first grant from the Oregon Department of Forestry, enhancing local wildfire fighting capabilities in collaboration with Walker Range Fire Patrol.
With extensive experience as a construction materials inspector, Joshua ensured compliance with engineering designs on significant construction endeavors and conducted Quality Control tests for contractors on ODOT highway projects. His expertise extends to recruiting DSPs for the IDD community, underpinned by his active involvement in numerous I/DD events. Outside of his professional and volunteer work, Joshua indulges in hobbies such as gaming, movie-watching, writing, piano playing, and singing. He cherishes cruise vacations with his wife and quality moments with their cat.
At Empowered Services, Joshua is eager to leverage his diverse skills and experiences to support our clients effectively. He envisions himself as a protective figure for the IDD community, aiming to shield them from further challenges and ensure peace of mind for both the individuals and their families
Connie
Customer Concierge & Connection Specialist
Connie is the dedicated Customer Concierge & Connection Specialist at Empowered Services, with a rich 25-year history in social services, particularly focused on aiding families with special needs. She resides in Clackamas County with her loved ones, including two sons, one of whom has special needs, blending her personal experiences with her professional endeavors.
Her hobbies include crafting, reading, and traveling, but she has a particular affinity for gardening, which reflects her deep faith and the tranquility it affords her. Connie’s journey to Empowered Services began from a personal quest for support for her son, leading her to join the organization four years ago with the aim of making a significant impact on families in similar situations.
In her role, Connie is pivotal in bridging families with the crucial resources and support they need, thereby improving their lives and instilling hope. Her commitment is rooted in a sincere desire to empower these families, ensuring they have access to all necessary support and information. With her professional acumen and personal understanding, Connie stands as a vital member of our team, always ready to provide guidance and resources to those seeking help for loved ones with special needs.
Jessica
County Coordinator Lead
Meet Jessica, our County Coordinator Lead for Yamhill, Washington, and Columbia Counties. She’s thrilled to continue her journey in the IDD community, cheering on our customers as they blossom into their best selves.
Jessica’s background is all heart. With a degree in Intercultural Ministries, she spent years teaching English and ESL at a faith-based school, where she poured her love into shaping young minds. But her heart truly sings on the field—whether coaching track and field or volleyball, Jessica found her passion in guiding and supporting others.
Her path led her to Special Education, where she discovered a whole new world of love and connection within the I/DD community. As a Teachers Aide and Educational Assistant, she found fulfillment in helping students thrive. Now as a county coordinator lead, Jessica’s love shines bright as she trains and supports her team, ensuring everyone feels valued and empowered.
Her love knows no bounds, extending to every I/DD customer, family, and provider she encounters. Jessica’s always there with a helping hand, tirelessly working to find solutions and nurture growth in others.
But it’s not all work for Jessica! She cherishes every adventure with her husband, finding solace in the cuddles of her cat and staying hydrated with her water bottle. And oh, her love for Disney and Flaming Hot Cheetos? It’s like a sprinkle of magic in her life, adding joy and laughter to every moment.
Will
County Coordinator
Will Bucknum is a dedicated professional who has made significant contributions to the lives of teens and adults with disabilities. His work spans several decades and is underpinned by a Master’s of Education from the University of Oregon. Will’s early career as a social studies instructor for at-risk teens laid the foundation for his deep commitment to transformative teaching and support. His innovative spirit led him to establish the Vocational Academy program at the Pearl Buck Center, a milestone that aligned with the broader movement away from sheltered workshops and towards more inclusive and empowering vocational training.
The ethos of service and creativity has been central to Will’s life, deeply influenced by his father’s work in managing homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and drug rehabilitation centers for teens. This background not only inspired Will but also instilled in him a profound understanding of the power of compassion and support in effecting positive change.
Music and sports have played a pivotal role in Will’s approach to building connections and fostering community. His longstanding role as a soccer coach demonstrates his belief in the value of teamwork, leadership, and personal growth through sports. Beyond the field, Will’s passion for music has seen him compose and play, sharing his talents and using music as a universal language to connect with others.
Will’s creative talents extend into the video game industry, where he has made significant contributions as a voice-over producer, scriptwriter, sound designer, and composer on over 70 games. This work showcases his versatility and ability to engage with diverse audiences, bringing stories and characters to life in an immersive and impactful way.
Will Bucknum’s multifaceted career is a testament to his dedication to making a difference in the lives of those with disabilities, his innovative approach to education and vocational training, and his commitment to leveraging creativity and sports as means of connection and empowerment. His contributions across various fields highlight his capacity to inspire, support, and uplift others, making him a respected and valued figure in his community and beyond.
Janette
County Coordinator & Spanish Translator
Janette is embarking on an exciting new journey as the Marion and Polk County Coordinator and Spanish Translator at Empower Services. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Janette is enthusiastic about also being able to assist Spanish-speaking families, bridging communication gaps, and providing the support they need to thrive.
With a diverse background spanning customer service, caregiving, scheduling, quality control supervision, and case manager Janette has cultivated a versatile skill set that enables her to approach challenges with empathy and efficiency. Her academic journey includes earning an associate’s degree from Chemeketa Community College, where she laid the foundation for her commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Born and raised in Woodburn, OR, Janette has a lifelong connection to the beautiful state of Oregon. She loves adventuring and exploring the scenic landscapes and hidden gems that Oregon has to offer. In her free time, Janette enjoys relaxing with a good cup of coffee, listening to her favorite music, and hanging out with her significant other and cat! She values quality time with her family and cherishes creating memories, whether they are enjoying a cozy backyard gathering or embarking on an outdoor adventure.
Janette has always had a passion for helping people and lending a hand whenever possible, a passion that began growing up as an advocate for her parents due to language barriers. Her previous work with the IDD community has been particularly rewarding, as she takes pride in making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families witnessing their personal growth and achievements as they work towards their goals. She is excited to immerse herself in the Empower Services family, where she looks forward to continuing her commitment to providing dedicated support and fostering an inclusive environment for all.
Alena
Administrative Assistant and Contract Specialist
Alena is delighted to join Empowered Services as the Administrative Assistant & Intake/Contract Specialist. Alena graduated from George Fox University with a Bachelors in Psychology and brings a range of professional experience with her; she has worked in Undergraduate Admissions at George Fox University and Outpatient Behavioral Health at Providence St. Vincent as well as foraying into various event coordination roles. Alena also has years of experience with the I/DD community and has previously worked as both a DSP and case manager.
Serving the I/DD community is a personal passion for Alena as her older sister receives attendant care services in Washington State. It is important to Alena that every family and provider at Empowered Services be treated the way she would want her family and her sister’s providers to be treated. She wants to help ensure customers receive support that will help them enrich their lives.
Alena is deeply committed to serving others with compassion and empathy. She believes in ensuring that people feel valued, understood, and cared for. Alena is a dedicated advocate, confident in using her voice to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Alena dedicates the majority of her free time to ballroom dancing. She particularly enjoys Latin ballroom and studies Salsa, Bachata, and Casino Rueda. Alena has performed locally in the Portland area and has even traveled to San Francisco to perform. In addition to being an avid dancer, Alena is also a writer. She is currently working on a poetry book and is hoping to have it published one day.
Alena finds great joy in spending quality time with her loved ones. Alena often spends her weekends doing invigorating activities with friends such as cooking, going on day trips to the coast, thrifting/antiquing, and practicing lightsaber combat. She greatly enjoys trips to visit her adorable and delightfully rambunctious niece and nephews. Alena is a proud aunt and says there is no better sound in the world than the laughter of her niece and nephews.
Ruth
County Coordinator
Meet Ruth, our County Coordinator for
Clackamas & Multnomah Counties. Ruth, a native of Aloha, OR, is deeply passionate about serving her local community. As a dual citizen of both the United States and Australia, she enjoys visiting her family in Australia when possible. Ruth has been involved in supporting the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) community from a young age, and she is deeply committed to ensuring that individuals in this community receive the support they need to thrive and advocate for themselves.
A graduate of Bushnell University with a Bachelor of Science in Music Composition, Ruth’s education inspired her to pursue a career dedicated to helping others. Her journey began by combining her musical talents with caregiving, providing music therapy to individuals in need. She later expanded her role in the IDD field, first as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and eventually as a case manager.
Empathy and advocacy are Ruth’s defining qualities. She is driven by a desire to empower individuals to grow in their independence while building lasting, positive connections with both them and their families. Ruth’s commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting self-advocacy is at the core of her work.
In her free time, Ruth enjoys relaxing with her husband, where they share a love for playing musical instruments, watching anime, and unwinding with video games. She is also committed to her personal fitness, dedicating time at the gym to maintain her health and well-being. A passionate cook, Ruth’s favorite dish to prepare is Indian Chicken Tikka Masala, reflecting her love for flavorful and diverse cuisine.
Ruth has a warm heart and friendly soul and always wants everyone to be seen and heard. She values genuine connections with others and is looking forward to forging connections with the Empowered Services Family.
Audrey
County Coordinator
Audrey plays a vital role as the Coordinator for Lane, Linn, and Benton counties, working alongside Will Bucknum to support these areas. In addition to her coordination responsibilities, she continues her work as a dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP). Born and raised in Springfield, Oregon, Audrey graduated from the University of Oregon in 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree.
Her journey in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) community began in 2018 when she took on the role of a DSP, where she quickly found her passion for working with individuals with I/DD. In 2019, Audrey expanded her skillset by becoming a teacher at a vocational school, where she worked with Will Bucknum, who was the Lead Teacher. Together, they helped students aged 20 to over 70 develop essential life skills such as social interaction, fine motor coordination, coping strategies, and self-advocacy. Audrey also took the lead in organizing field trips, where students gained exposure to various job opportunities within the community. Her efforts contributed to many of her students successfully transitioning from sheltered workshops into the workforce.
In addition to her work with the IDD community, Audrey has contributed to her local community by teaching at a faith-based preschool for over three years, demonstrating her dedication to fostering growth and learning in individuals of all ages.
Helping others is a core value for Audrey, and she is excited to continue making a positive impact through her work with Empowered Services. When she’s not working, Audrey enjoys a variety of crafting hobbies, including knitting, sewing, and crochet. She also loves spending time with her family and caring for her pet turtle, Fred.