Board & Staff

Carla Rizzo

• Master’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha
• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, University of Nebraska Omaha
• Transformational Nonprofit Leadership Certificate, University of Notre Dame (IN)
• National Afterschool Matters Fellow – 2017-2019

Carla has seen the ins and outs of Completely KIDS since starting here in October 1998. She served as a volunteer, Program Support Staff, Program Coordinator (Highland, Liberty AM, Washington, Marrs, Norris, Bryan, Teen and Transition programs), Program Specialist and Program Manager prior to her current role. “As I started working at the program, I immediately fell in love with the kids and families and saw the serious barriers they were challenged with,” Carla says. “My heart has always stayed with the kids and families and I believe in this organization. I am who I am because of what I have learned while working at Completely KIDS.” Family is the most important thing to Carla. She is married to her high school sweetheart and has four sons.

Ann Lawless

• Master’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha
• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Creighton University

Ann started with Completely KIDS under its former affiliation in May 2002. She served as a Community Outreach Worker and Program Coordinator at Jackson Elementary before moving into her role as a director. “I truly believe in what we do,” Ann says. “I have had the opportunity to see our kids have great successes in their lives, and that makes me proud!” Ann is married, has two sons and a competitive spirit on the soccer field.

Lacey Locklear

• Master’s Degree in Forensic Science: Behavioral, Nebraska Wesleyan University
• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Nebraska Wesleyan University

Before joining the Completely KIDS staff as a Program Coordinator in September 2016, Lacey worked with juveniles on probation and says she “noticed a great need for positive role models before youth enter high school.” In her current role as Chief Development Officer, Lacey will share the stories of those we serve to increase human and financial support for Completely KIDS. Lacey enjoys relaxing at home with her husband Greg, daughter Halle and dog Gilmore or in Lincoln with family.

Glenna Kerber

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Eastern Oregon University

Glenna Kerber has joined Completely KIDS as our new Chief Financial Officer. She comes to us with positivity and a strong work ethic. This is her first role in a non-profit setting and she’s excited for this new opportunity and to lend her skills to the job. “I love the ability to help kids and families in the Omaha community and it brings me joy seeing all the lives that are touched by the Completely KIDS mission.” In her free time, Glenna enjoys spending time with her husband Edwin and her daughter and granddaughter.

Kimberly Norman-Collins

• Master’s Degree in Administrative Management, Bellevue University
• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Fort Valley State University
• Kimberly is also working on her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Northcentral University and completion anticipation for 2023!

Kimberly Norman-Collins has joined the Completely KIDS team as our new Chief Operating Officer! Joining the Completely KIDS staff with extensive experience, this Bellevue University grad has served other great organizations in the metro, including the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Kimberly is a dynamic, results-oriented leader with diverse experience and is already making a difference at Completely KIDS.

Lulu Rangel

• Master’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha
• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha
• Certified Master Social Worker
• Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner

Lulu is an alumnus of our teen program and served as a practicum student at Field Club before joining Completely KIDS full time as the Shelter Coordinator. In 2017, she transitioned to working with families in a mental health capacity. “Because I was in the program during high school, I know the impact this agency has on kids,” she says. Lulu enjoys spending her weekends playing with her son, Ezra and two pugs.

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Rosa Reyes

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Grace University
• Associate Degree in Business Administration, Kaplan University

Rosa worked for almost 10 years in the credit card banking industry before finding her passion for human services as a part-time Volunteer Coordinator at CASA for Douglas County. In 2012, she accepted a full-time role working with families at Completely KIDS. She helps adults reach their goals in the areas of education, personal growth and health/wellness. Rosa says many Completely KIDS families have one or both parents who were not given any educational opportunities in their home country. Born in Mexico, Rosa believes, “had my Dad not been one of the skilled farm laborers working in the United States during that time, I would be one of these people, through no fault of my own, who is not educated or able to provide the opportunity of a bright future to my three children.” Rosa is married to husband Ray.

Jan Benitez

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha
• Master’s Degree in Public Administration with a Concentration in Nonprofit Management, University of Nebraska Omaha

Jan first worked at Completely KIDS in 2012 and rejoined us in late 2021. He previously served as Program Support Staff and Assistant Program Coordinator at Norris Middle School. Additionally, he served as the Teen Program Coordinator and piloted our Teen Employment Program. Through his hard work and dedication, we welcome Jan back as the Director of Community-Based Programs at CK. “I have always had a strong connection to the Completely KIDS mission and staff. My experience as an immigrant helps me connect to some of the hardships faced by families in our programs. I know I wouldn’t be where I am without the empowerment of community organizations like Completely KIDS and I’m proud to be back with this incredible team”. In his free time, Jan enjoys traveling with his wife Kelsey and supporting his favorite soccer teams, Tottenham Hotspurs and FC Barcelona.

Kymberly Caddell

• Master’s Degree in Social Work and Licensed Mental Health Practitioner
• In her 4th year of PhD in Educational Psychology

Kym has always wanted to help people. After completing her master’s degree, she started working full-time at Jackson Elementary as a Coordinator. She joins us now as Director of School Based Programs, where she oversees meetings and coaching of staff, training, planning and implementation. When asked why she was drawn to Completely KIDS, she recalled, “Completely KIDS is dedicating to creating opportunities for kids and families who may not otherwise have such opportunities. This is important to me as I’ve made it my life’s work as someone who grew up in a low-income, single parent family. To be able to use my education and experience to empower families like mine to be successful is truly a gift.” In her free time, Kym enjoys playing tennis, going to Zumba and doing yoga.

Sheila Avant

• Associate Degree in Human Services, Metropolitan Community College

Sheila is one of the agency’s long-time employees. Since starting in January 1996, she has served at the Niños, Wintergreen, Shelter and CK Highland sites and now oversees our CK Walnut Hill location. Sheila is married with two daughters and seven grandkids and you can count on her to cook a fancy feast during the holidays.

Kayla Baker

• Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science, Bellevue University
• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Metropolitan Community College

Kayla started working at Completely KIDS in July 2020. Prior to working at Completely KIDS, she worked as a Foster Care Specialist, a Youth Director and a Crisis Counselor. She says, “The moment I visited the CK building for an event, I fell in love with the program. My passion stems from supporting youth and families to be successful.” Her hobbies include being around her family and working on crafts. She also knows American Sign Language.

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Shady Martinez Castillo

• Associate’s Degree in Human Services Transfer, Metropolitan Community College

Shady has worked at Completely KIDS since 2018. She was a Program Support Staff at three of our sites. She loves the mission of our organization because we serve the family as a whole by providing programs for students and parents. Outside of Completely KIDS, she owns her own apparel business, called ShadyFitz. During her free time she plays in a soccer league.

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Aweel David

• Bachelor’s Degree in Technical Theater, Creighton University

Aweel David has joined the Completely KIDS team as Site Director at All Saints Catholic School. Aweel works with parents, school staff and KIDS on meeting their needs. The favorite part of her job is working with the KIDS to provide opportunities for them. “I believe each KID deserves a bright, safe and healthy future. If I can be part of this transformation, then I’m doing something greater than myself! In her free time, Aweel enjoys spending time with her partner, siblings and making charcuterie boards.

Miguel Estevez

• Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health, University of Nebraska at Omaha
• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Miguel fell in love with Completely KIDS’ holistic approach to help the entire family break the cycle of poverty. He is excited to be a part of our expanding Mental Health Program. Miguel believes his background as a first generation U.S. born citizen and growing up with parents from Guatemala and El Salvador helps him understand the Latine community in a very unique way. A fun fact is his favorite meals are pupusas and a big plate of carne asada with homemade tortillas.

Yahaira Gonzalez

• Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, University of Nebraska Omaha

Yahaira brings a special understanding of Completely KIDS to her work each day. She is an alumni of the program and worked part time as a program support staff and program assistant at Liberty. She briefly left Completely KIDS for a full-time position at another local agency and returned in March 2019 as a Family Specialist. She says, “I am very proud of how much Completely KIDS has grown. Every day, I am inspired by the children and families we serve and their continuous dedication to succeed.” Yahaira enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her parents and two younger sisters. She also likes to read and catch up on the latest flicks.

Jennifer Jimenez

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha

Jennifer is one a Completely KIDS Alumni and has been working at Completely KIDS since 2016. Her past positions include: Junior Support Staff at Liberty Elementary, Program Support Staff at Liberty Elementary and Alumni Intern. She said, “I learned at a young age the value of serving others and striving to be an asset to the community. Over the years, I have valued and worked to fulfill the mission and vision of Completely KIDS.” In her free time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, play volleyball, traveling and creating art.

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Andres Lara

• Undergraduate Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Nebraska at Omaha
• Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Andres Lara grew up in California. His family moved a lot when he was growing up. They eventually landed in Omaha where he earned his degrees. Andres has always been passionate about helping people and chose to join the Completely KIDS team as our Mental Health Specialist after previously working in another after school non-profit. When asked what brought him to Completely KIDS, he reminisced, “What interested me most in working at Completely KIDS was the ability to provide free mental health services to children and adolescents.” Andres is an incredibly hard worker whose dedication to the mental health and positivity of the KIDS and families in the Omaha community is truly inspiring. In his free time, Andres enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, family and friends. He also enjoys playing video games and petting his three cats.

Mike Modica

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha

Mike has been a faithful employee of Completely KIDS since August 2011. His part-time roles have included program support and lead staff at Gomez Elementary School. Today, he serves as the Program Coordinator for our new program at St. Cecilia’s Cathedral Elementary School. Mike is an avid Nebraska football fan and plays a trading card game called “Magic: The Gathering” semi-competitively.

Aaron Ortiz-Ruiz

Aaron Ortiz-Ruiz has joined our team as the Program Coordinator of Norris Middle School. Having first learned of Completely KIDS when he was in high school where he was part of a grassroots leadership program, Aaron has always loved this community and wants to give back to it. “Completely KIDS gives so much to their community. Their mission allows me to give back to those in Omaha and empower its KIDS and their families.” Aaron is an exceptionally hard worker and we are happy to have him on our team!

Anna Pitt

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies, Destiny Bible College (FL)
• Teacher Certification, Without Walls International Church (FL)
• Positive Action Center Facilitator, Gomez Heritage Elementary School

Before joining Completely KIDS as a Program Coordinator in 2018, she worked as a Program Support Staff for CK Gomez for nine years. Anna’s professional experience includes time served in the U.S. Army, PAC Facilitator for Omaha Public Schools, children’s ministry and working sales for Xerox. Soon after starting at OPS, she also began her work with Completely KIDS and says, “I found that burning desire to help kids take root again and I have never looked back. I want to do what I can to bring light into their sometimes-bleak worlds.” Because Anna is approachable and personable, some might be surprised to know she is a true introvert. On her list of to-dos? Travel to all 50 states.

Ashley Pruitt

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, University of Nebraska Omaha

Ashley Pruitt has joined Completely KIDS as the Program Coordinator at Gifford Park Elementary. Coming in with a passion to help KIDS in our community, Ashley was born for this job. “Being able to support our students, both academically and through setting them on a path to success, is important to me because students need someone to mentor them.” In her free time, Ashley likes to travel, attend concerts and spend time with her family.

Jessica Ramirez

• Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Family and Community, University of Nebraska Omaha

Jessica Ramirez has joined us at Forest Station Elementary School as the Program Coordinator. In charge of activity planning, field trips and after school program fun, this UNO grad builds positive relationships with parents, students and staff. When asked what she loves most about Completely KIDS, she remarked, “I love giving back to the community. Growing up in South Omaha myself helped me understand the importance of after school programs – keeping KIDS off the streets and giving them a safe environment.” In her free time, Jessica enjoys going to the gym, spending time with friends and family and traveling!

Cristina Salazar

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Management, University of Nebraska Omaha

Cristina has worked at Completely KIDS as a Program Support Staff, Lead Support Staff and Assistant Program Coordinator. She said, “I joined Completely KIDS because I wanted to be a mentor to the students. I wanted to be someone for the youth to rely on in all capacities as well as be a person for them that I did not have growing up.” During her free time she enjoys painting and spending time with friends and family.

Jonathan Sanders

• Bachelor’s Degree in Black Studies, University of Nebraska Omaha.

Jonathan Sanders serves as Completely KIDS Program Coordinator at Field Club Elementary. Helping to assure all staff are prepared every day to help their students and make the program great, Jonathan always wears a smile to work. “Being able to end each day with the KIDS at Field Club and seeing their faces and the joy they bring is what I like most about what I do,” he recounted. Jonathan works every day to impact and empower KIDS to be the best version of themselves. Jonathan has four brothers, one daughter and is also a professional drummer.

Ellie Shaffer

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha

Ellie has been working at Completely KIDS as a Program Support Staff since 2018. She loves working with kids at the shelter program and getting to know the families. She said, “I greatly appreciate the connectedness among staff at CK.” During her free time she enjoys running, spending time outdoors and visiting friends and family.

Maggie Vazquez

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Human Sciences, University of Nebraska Lincoln

Maggie has experience working with youth which makes her a perfect fit for our Teen Program Coordinator position. She has a passion for working with kids and believes all youth should be given educational and achievement opportunities. Maggie said, “Completely KIDS’ outreach programs reach a variety of youth across Omaha to empower them with unique opportunities to learn more about themselves and others.” She values community building because she believes it’s the foundation to success. During her free time she likes to play golf, hammock and bake. She also has a twin sister, Annmarie.

Nicole Wofford

• Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science

Nicole Wofford has joined Completely KIDS as Program Coordinator of Highland Elementary School. She is ecstatic to work with our KIDS in our safe, fun and educational environment! When asked what she likes most about Completely KIDS, Nicole remarked, “Completely KIDS lets me be me. If you have ever been on a management team, you know it’s hard to be you if you’re not allowed to do so. Best career move I could have ever made.” In her free time, Nicole loves spending time with her nine grandchildren.

Delayne Wolfe

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

Before working for Completely KIDS, Delayne worked with children at Genesis Health Club and had two jobs involving helping older adults. She said the reason she was interested in working for Completely KIDS was because she has a family member who is enrolled in our afterschool program and loves it. “I wanted to work at a job that gives back to the community and knows how to make a positive impact on individuals.” Fun facts about Delayne are that she is a Marvel fan, has 4 dogs and loves to travel.

Laura Armas

• Metropolitan Community College

Laura worked at Omaha Public Schools for 22 years before working at Completely KIDS. Laura wanted to stay in the South Omaha area and happened to see an opportunity with Completely KIDS. She said, “I knew right away, this was a sign that I should try being a part of this wonderful program/organization. I am so thankful and happy to be here at CK!” She is married to a tattoo artist. During her free time she likes to write poems.

Ismael Alvarez Del Castillo

• Metropolitan Community College

Ismael has been a part of our team since 2017 as a Program Support Staff. His experience working at Happy Hollow has allowed him to be a great communicator to our wonderful volunteers. He said, “What Completely KIDS does for the families is amazing. I consider myself a good role model for the kids and getting them on the right path to success has become a goal of mine.” During his free time he likes to work out and play golf with his friends. Someday his goal is to own multiple rental properties and become a donor for Completely KIDS.

John Ems

John brings 30 years of experience in office and home maintenance to his role as Facilities Manager at Completely KIDS. For years, he heard about the work Completely KIDS does to help people and says, “I felt I had the ability to help support the organization.” In his spare time, John enjoys growing a variety of trees and plants in his yard, raises a few chickens and likes to complete woodworking projects.

Monica Mora-Handlos, LCSW

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Nebraska at Omaha
• Master’s Degrees in Social Work and Public Administration, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Monica Mora-Handlos joins the Completely KIDS team as the Executive Assistant. In this role, she provides administrative support to the CEO, CFO and assists with development activities. Having worked at Completely KIDS years ago when it was Camp Fire KIDS and coordinated a summer program at Castelar Academy, she is eager to jump back in and provide a breadth of services to the Completely KIDS’ community. “Getting to help the KIDS and families of this community is a wonderful experience. I am so excited to assist the leadership team in all the amazing work being done at Completely KIDS,” Monica added. In her free time, Monica enjoys spending time with her family, sewing and cake decorating – amongst a whole host of other fun activities.

Kim Sanders

• Master’s Degree in Human Resource Strategic Management, Bellevue University
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, University of Nebraska Omaha

Kim Sanders has joined Completely KIDS as the Human Resources Manager. Bringing with her a passion for helping youth, Kim is excited for the opportunity to work with our KIDS and families. “I love coming to work every day and seeing everyone’s smiling faces. I love that Completely KIDS offers classes and training to not only the KIDS we serve, but to their families as well.” In her free time, Kim enjoys spending time with friends and family and she loves to travel, play games, and cook. Kim is active in her church, Red Bridge Ministries, where she serves on many committees and their leadership team. She and her husband, Patrick have been married ten years.

Hailey Wolfe

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education with an Endorsement in Families & Communities

Hailey Wolfe joins the Completely KIDS team as a Human Resources Recruiter. She offers knowledge and skills on how to help us grow our team! Having first heard about Completely KIDS and our mission through a friend, Hailey joins us looking to make a difference in the community. “I’m helping to make my community a better place. Children are our future. If I can recruit mentors and leaders to come and show, teach and give these kiddos love and knowledge, then I’ve done my part,” she remarked about her job and its impact on the community around her. Hailey is the oldest of two sisters and loves spending time with her Shiba Inu. She also loves the color pink, and some of her favorite foods are sushi and Chick-fil-A!

Jessica Yepez-Martinez

• Currently enrolled at Metro Community College pursuing a degree in General Studies

Jessica Yepez-Martinez joins us as the new Office Manager. Jessica works with the Human Resources Department to help onboard all new employees, as well as a number of other front desk and various office tasks. Jessica, who previously served as a Program Support Staff Member at Jackson Elementary, was drawn back to Completely KIDS by a number of things. “Working at Completely KIDS, to me, means the opportunity to give back to the community in a variety of ways. I want to help provide support and resources for families in need and make the organization even better,” she said when asked what this opportunity meant to her. In her free time, Jessica enjoys spending time with family and friends. She also enjoys walking, reading and watching NFL Football!