45 Years of Service: A Legacy of Care, Commitment, and Community

December 22, 2025 | Written by Patricia Harper, Empower Southern Indiana Sr. Manager

When people talk about the heart of a Community Action Agency (CAA), they often think of programs—HR, Payroll, Energy Assistance Program, and Individual Development Account, etc. But for more than 45+ years, I am that heart.

I started my career at the CAA at 18 with a young daughter, planning to stay “just a few years.” Those few years turned into a lifetime of service, advocacy, and quiet leadership that shaped not only the agency, but the lives of hundreds of employees, clients and community members.

Wearing Many Hats, Serving One Mission

Over the decades, I held many roles—HR Specialist, Payroll Specialist, Energy Assistance Program “EAP” Manager, Empower Southern Indiana Senior Manager “ESI” and Individual Development Account “IDA” Administrator, etc. No matter the title, my mission remained the same: take care of people.

My Fav: Empowering futures through IDA since 2021

I played a vital role in the Individual Development Account (IDA) program, supporting participants as they worked toward goals like homeownership, home repair, small business, vehicle purchase, and education.

I believed deeply in the power of opportunity. People don’t need handouts. “They need a fair chance—and someone who believes in them.”

This program encourages countless families to stay committed to saving, learning, and building long-term stability.

A Legacy That Lives On

After more than 45 years of dedicated service, my career stands as a powerful reminder that community action isn’t just about programs—it’s about people who show up, year after year, with compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment. Because when one person dedicates a lifetime to serving others, an entire community grows stronger.