Vanessa Barker

Vanessa Barker, CHES, CNPM, is an experienced professional in community engagement and development, currently serving as the Community Engagement Director at New Friends New Life since July 2020, where responsibilities include managing the Volunteer Program to support the agency’s mission for empowering formerly trafficked individuals. Prior to this role, Vanessa held positions such as Development Associate at Susan G. Komen Dallas County, where fundraising strategies were implemented for breast health services, and Development Coordinator for the National Kidney Foundation, overseeing event logistics and fundraising. With a background in education as a 2nd Grade Dual Language Teacher within the Dallas Independent School District, Vanessa has also contributed to various organizations, including Results Fitness For Women and Girl Scouts of the USA, promoting health and education initiatives. Vanessa holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion from the University of North Texas and is currently pursuing further education at The University of Texas at Austin.