Who We Are at Unfinished Empowerment

  • Our vision is to empower communities by fostering hope, strengthening resilience, and inspiring lasting change.

  • Unfinished Empowerment Organization is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit serving children, families, and communities in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and surrounding areas.

    We are committed to addressing educational and social needs with compassion, dignity, and care. Our work is rooted in the belief that growth happens best in community—and that when people are supported, encouraged, and equipped, lasting change becomes possible.

  • We exist to empower children and families through education, mentorship, and holistic support, providing the resources, encouragement, and community needed to thrive and grow.

  • Our programs are designed to meet real needs while nurturing long-term growth.

    • Education & Mentorship
      Supporting academic development and personal growth through guidance, encouragement, and opportunity.

    • Family & Community Support
      Strengthening families by connecting them with resources and supportive networks.

    • Youth Enrichment & Leadership
      Helping young people recognize their strengths, build confidence, and develop leadership skills that serve them well into the future.

  • Harvest Harmony Festival

    Each year, our Harvest Harmony Festival brings together children, families, local businesses, and community partners around a shared vision of hope, empowerment, and opportunity.

    Through community engagement, local vendors, food, fellowship, and charitable giving, the festival raises funds to support initiatives that uplift families and expand access to vital resources.

    Looking ahead, this annual event helps fuel our long-term vision of opening a community-centered hub that will provide:

    • Extended after-school programs

    • Youth enrichment and leadership development

    • Family support services

  • Unfinished Empowerment Organization received a generous donation from Charities Aid Foundation America on behalf of The Allstate Foundation. This support recognizes our partnership with one of Allstate’s exceptional team members, Rasheda Hawkins.

    We are deeply grateful for this collaboration and for the continued encouragement to empower and uplift our communities.

  • Our work is strengthened through trusted partnerships with community leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and corporate partners. We are grateful to have received support from Charities Aid Foundation America on behalf of The Allstate Foundation, recognizing our partnership with one of Allstate’s exceptional team members, Rasheda Hawkins.

    These collaborations affirm our commitment to excellence, accountability, and community-driven impact.

Meet Our Board Members

  • Black and white portrait of a smiling woman with short, wavy hair, wearing a light-colored top with a high neckline and earrings, against a circular gray background.

    Dr. Jo Hawkins-Jones

    FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT

    President: Dr. Jo Hawkins-Jones is an educator and researcher with deep roots in supporting academic success and community growth in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She has over 15 years of experience in P-16 education. Dr. Hawkins-Jones secured federal grant funding for programs such as i.R.O.C.K.+ at L.J. Rowan Elementary School and Going Beyond Apprenticeship at Hattiesburg High School, which provide academic support, mentoring, and apprenticeship opportunities for at-risk youth in the local community. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to education equity, especially for children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

  • Black and white portrait of a smiling woman with curly hair wearing earrings and a dark top.

    Dr. Katrina Haynes

    SECRETARY

    Dr. Katrina Haynes, Ph.D., CMHT, is a psychology professor and mental health specialist based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She teaches psychology and equips students with the knowledge and tools they need for personal growth and success, drawing on her academic expertise and commitment to education.

    Dr. Haynes brings a passion for community support and well-being, using her background in psychology and counseling to contribute insight and advocacy to initiatives that support mental health, education, and empowerment.

  • Black and white portrait of an African American woman with shoulder-length hair, smiling gently, resting her chin on her hand, wearing a ring on her finger.

    Frances Nixon

    CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

    Frances Nixon is a dedicated community supportnworker who plays an important role in helping local families access essential services. In her work with the Salvation Army’s social services, Frances assists community members by connecting them with utility, rental, medication, and food pantry support, ensuring that individuals and families in need receive the help they deserve.

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    Amy Massey

    Amy Massey is a dedicated educator, community advocate, farmer, and representative of the Lion of Judah. Her work with students, families, and fellow educators allows her to bring practical insight and compassion to her nonprofit efforts. Amy is also the owner of Kikos of 4M Farms.

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    Heather Giger

    Heather Giger is an educator with over 20 years of experience, supporting children and families through teaching and local involvement. As a middle school teacher, she works directly to strengthen education outcomes and community connections.

  • Black and white photo of a smiling female healthcare professional with short hair, wearing a stethoscope and earrings, against a plain background.

    Sonia Laster

    Sonia Laster is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of clinical experience providing primary care and mental health support to individuals and families. Sonia’s expertise enhances efforts to improve access to health and wellness resources, support mental health awareness, and partner with organizations that serve under served populations. Whether through health education, advocacy, or collaboration with local service providers, her work reflects a commitment to fostering healthier, stronger communities.

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    Waverly McSwain

    Waverly McSwain is the founder and owner of Waverly McSwain Beauty, a studio that offers professional makeup services for everyday looks and special occasions. She has also participated in community-focused initiatives that align with nonprofit values of empowerment and support. Through her “Restore Confidence; Reclaim Beauty” campaign, Waverly offers free semi-permanent brow services to cancer survivors and people with autoimmune conditions, helping them regain confidence and a sense of normalcy after hair loss due to illness.