em·pow·er
/əmˈpou(ə)r/ verb
giving others the confidence to take the steps to discover their life purpose, encouraging them to dedicate themselves to living in a way that aligns.
Meet Our Team
Who We Are
Kathy Olson, MAT Ed.
Founder & CEO
President
I truly believe there is an innovator in all of us and we can be the Picasso of our own lives. During my 30+ years of nonprofit work, my experience includes teaching, being a principal, grant writing, administering contracts, program development, executive directorship, program manager, heading up union contract negotiations, substance abuse counselor, file clerk, building maintenance, and kitchen manager. While working with people from all walks of life, I've discovered a common thread: the desire for personal change and creating a better lifestyle. I am an entrepreneur, having created a thriving business on just $50, which started out as a challenge for myself in developing a solopreneur program for people struggling with homelessness. I'm also a published author. My passion is working with people who are sheltered, unhoused and at-risk. My mantras are: Believe in yourself. Bet on yourself. Take risks. Keep learning. Know you are enough. Be kind. Stay humble.
907-519-1530
Joe West
Treasurer
Joe is President of P3, Panhandle Peoples' Pantry. He and his crew are sharing office space with us. He is a volunteer at AHF, Amarillo Housing First/Code Blue Warming Station. Joe is also a motorcycle instructor at Amarillo College. He desires to create a community garden and teach the nutritional benefits of eating better. He wants to bring the community together promoting awareness and problem-solving food insecurity for families with children. P3 and Four Winds Empowerment, Inc. are working together on true collaborative efforts. This guy is busy and has a heart of gold for the people he works with!
806-382-8289
Sharon McCarty
Board Member
In Sharon's own words: "I am thrilled to join the board of Four Winds Empowerment, Inc. and look forward to collaborating with all of you in support of this incredible organization. For over 20 years, I've had the privilege of working with the homeless population as a Case Manager. Throughout my career, I've been deeply passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve lasting independence. Four Winds' commitment to empowering individuals aligns with my own values, and I am excited to contribute my experience to furthering our mission."
806-517-3825
Dianne Sagan
Secretary
Dianne is a community volunteer and business consultant. She works as a substitute teacher for Amarillo Independent School District. Dianne is also a published author of several books on Amazon's Best Sellers list. Escaping domestic violence resulted in homelessness for herself and her children. Her lived experience has led her to advocate for others in similar situations. Dianne will facilitate a monthly empowerment session, Beyond Words, entailing creative expression activities for interested members.
806-336-9575
Cynamin Brownlow
Board Member - Outreach Services
Cynamin brings lived experience, resilience, and deep compassion to her role as Outreach Services Coordinator and Board Member. A former educator whose life was upended by cancer, domestic abuse, and homelessness, she has transformed her journey into a source of strength and advocacy. Since overcoming addiction and securing stable housing in 2025, Cynamin has dedicated herself to serving others—facilitating Four Winds Empowerment sessions and connecting individuals to critical resources in the Texarkana, TX area. She works full-time, and is a proud mother and grandmother.
903-917-4417
