ABOUT US

Moms Connect’s vision is to promote family preservation by creating a safe and supportive environment where every mother, regardless of her background or circumstances, is empowered to lead a whole and healthy family. Our mission is to walk alongside mothers as they navigate systems, access resources, and build the skills needed to care for themselves and their families. Through a community rooted in respect and equality, we ensure that every mother is valued, supported, and equipped to thrive.

Support. Empower. Grow.

At Moms Connect, we believe that true well-being is built through strong relationships and personal growth, not just temporary assistance. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that human connection is essential for thriving, and we use relationships as the foundation for long-term stability and self-sufficiency. By fostering meaningful connections, we help moms move up Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs—from securing basic necessities like food, diapers, and transportation to feeling safe and supported. As trust grows, moms experience belonging and connection, which research shows is crucial for mental health and resilience. This sense of community allows them to build confidence and develop new skills, opening doors to employment, leadership, and greater independence. We don’t just provide resources—we invite moms to be part of the process.

MEET OUR co-founders

KRISTINA HEINZEN

CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
After fostering children in our home for several years, I met a mother while caring for her boys. I was instantly drawn to her strength, resilience, and the kindness she carried despite her challenges. It was clear how much she loved her children. Our connection remained strong throughout the time I cared for her kids—when they were in my home, when they returned to hers, and again years later when I supported their care once more. Through this experience, I realized my true passion: supporting mothers who struggle to find the resources and encouragement they need in motherhood. The lessons I’ve learned from her have been invaluable, and I’m grateful to walk this journey alongside her. Supporting and learning from the mothers we serve is a privilege, and it reaffirms my passion and purpose every day.
GINA MARTIN

CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As a foster and adoptive mom, I’ve witnessed firsthand how deeply families are impacted by separation. After years of fostering and the adoption of our three children, I remember welcoming a baby into our home and thinking, “I’m too late.” So much trauma had already unfolded for her and her parents just as it had for my children. That moment solidified my desire to support moms and families before their children are removed, while there’s still time to make a difference. I’ve seen moms rebuild their lives even after losing parental rights, but I want to help them prevent that loss in the first place. Walking alongside these moms, growing together, and bearing witness to their resilience has been an incredible honor.

MEET OUR board of directors

Lisa Anderson

BOARD MEMBER
Lisa has been a passionate advocate and dedicated volunteer for Moms Connect, using her strong community connections to amplify our mission. She has helped raise awareness of the work we do throughout Dubuque. One of the most special parts of her journey has been building a deep relationship with one of our families, giving her a firsthand glimpse into the transformative power of Moms Connect. We are incredibly grateful for her heart, dedication, and voice on our board.
KELLEY DONOVAN

BOARD MEMBER
Kelley brings a wealth of experience, both as a dedicated nonprofit advocate and as a seasoned board member. As a wealth advisor, she is passionate about ensuring the financial stability of Moms Connect so we can continue growing and serving more families. Kelley cares deeply about empowering women; this care, her professional expertise, and heart for our work make her an incredible addition to our team!
JIM OTT

BOARD MEMBER
With many years of experience locally and nationally with Bridges Out of Poverty and now serving as a True Charity ambassador in the Dubuque area, Jim has developed a deep understanding of Dubuque’s systems, dynamics, and the challenges faced by those navigating them. His passion for relational support and elevating leadership from those with lived experience makes his insight invaluable in shaping the future of Moms Connect.
Ermina Soler

Board Member
Ermina brings invaluable lived experience to Moms Connect. Her firsthand understanding of the challenges our moms navigate makes her an essential part of our mission. With a background in poverty reduction work, her latest focus on the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences within adults, and the knowledge of how to navigate systems without developing a dependence on them, her insight and dedication strengthen our work and the impact we have on Dubuque moms.
chad cox

Chad is a steady source of wisdom and encouragement to Moms Connect, offering thoughtful guidance and support. Chad provides valuable perspective given his professional experience as an attorney, but even more importantly, through his genuine care for families and our community. We are so thankful for the way Chad invests in our organization and the families we walk alongside.
CAYLA SCHNEIDER

Cayla brings her professional experience in fundraising from her role at Crescent Community Health Center, offering valuable guidance as we continue to grow and strengthen our approach. She serves as a thoughtful mentor to our team, helping us learn and build sustainable fundraising practices. Cayla has been a dedicated advocate for Moms Connect since the very beginning, and her strong community connections continue to support and expand our reach.
Reta Kirkpatrick-Pluemer

Reta brings both professional expertise and lived experience that provide invaluable insight into the complexities of the child welfare system. As a social worker, she has a deep understanding of trauma-informed care. Reta believes strongly in prevention and family preservation, recognizing the importance of walking alongside families with dignity and practical solutions. Her unique perspective helps ensure Moms Connect remains focused on family preservation.
Natalia Blaskovich

Natalia brings extensive experience as an attorney, mediator, and Dubuque County Magistrate, providing insight into the judicial system and challenges many families face with it. In both her career and personal life, she is a strong advocate for equity and access for underserved and underrepresented populations. Her nonprofit board experience and commitment to strengthening the community make her an invaluable board member.