tour dates
Empowerment
04/28
la cueva hs
5/5
sandia hs
5/10
eldorado hs
5/15
eldorado hs
5/20
Del norte hs
At The Empowerment Project, we are dedicated to reshaping the conversation around food, body image, and health—especially for athletes navigating a world saturated with AI-generated ideals, filtered perfection, and relentless performance pressure.
We exist to expand access to nutrition, body image, and mental wellness care through education, scholarships, and leadership development rooted in Empowered Eating. We promote a different narrative—one that celebrates strength without perfection, diversity without comparison, and confidence built from within.
Like the vine we pass on at our events, growth begins at the root but never stops there. When a young athlete learns to fuel well, think critically, and see her body with respect, that empowerment doesn’t stay contained. It spreads—to teammates, to families, to future generations.
Our mission is to cultivate resilient, grounded leaders in sports and beyond —in athletes those who prioritize their well-being and model wisdom, confidence, and grace in environments that often demand the opposite.
Together, we are creating a movement where every young athlete can thrive—on the field and off—free from unrealistic standards and empowered to grow, lead, and pass it on.
- Promoting Health: Advocating for nutrition education to enhance the health and resilience of teen athletes.
- Integrating Well-being: Seeking hands on ways to improve access to healthy food and science based education.
- Fostering Confidence: Combating body image concerns and instilling self-confidence in individuals.
- Developing Leaders: Empowering young people to lead their peers in nutrition education and wellness initiatives.
- Combating Harmful Social Media Messages: Addressing negative influences and promoting positive online interactions to support mental health and body positivity.
- Community Outreach: Raising awareness about the profound impact of evidence-based nutrition on both mental and physical health through targeted outreach programs.
Jess and Taylor were very engaging and personable with the team. They made it fun and visual with concrete examples. They were very positive about the kids sharing what foods they were eating and then helped them see how they could improve on what they are currently eating. For example, 'A Honey Bun is a good source of carbs, what is a protein and color you could add to that to round it out?' We hope to have them back.
Coach Feedback
albuqerque public schools
Jessika didn't just tell us what to eat; she explained why certain foods are beneficial. Her talk was a game-changer for us, and we've already started implementing her advice. I've been to many nutrition talks, but Jessika's stood out. She provided evidence-based information in a way that was relatable and inspiring. Her ability to answer questions thoroughly and thoughtfully was also impressive. I walked away with actionable steps we could take immediately.
the university of new mexico
Coach Feedback
The nutritional talk that Jessika gave my team was incredibly insightful and beneficial. It not only provided my athletes with a wealth of knowledge about healthy eating habits and their impact on our overall well-being, but it also inspired us to make positive changes in our daily routines. We left feeling empowered to prioritize our health and left with knowledge of how to properly fuel our bodies before workouts, after workouts and throughout the day.
Coach Feedback
albuqerque public schools
the university of new mexico
Coach Feedback
Your knowledge and the variety of ways you connect with athletes allow our athletes to be comfortable with asking you questions. I think the non judgmental approach you created was very important for a big group setting to have a meaningful session with you.
What Your Donation Supports
Funds our propagation initiative and provides vine cuttings, plant materials, and Empowered Eating resources for 20 athletes.
Sponsors a live school or team presentation, bringing direct education and practical tools to student athletes.
Funds a full outreach event, including travel, materials, and curriculum delivery. Allows us to reach an entire program or school community.
Your donation fuels education, access, and leadership development for teen athletes navigating food, body image, and mental wellness in a high-pressure world. In a culture saturated with comparison, pressure, and performance-driven identity, we step into schools and athletic programs with a different message: one rooted in nourishment, resilience, and self-respect.
helps us move closer to our 1,000-student goal
Students Reached So Far in 2026: 200 / 1,000
Your support helps us deliver:
- School and team presentations on our Empowerment Tour
- Travel and event materials
- Printed resources and student toolkits
- Curriculum development and lecture expansion
- The Empowerment Project vine initiative at live events
Scholarship Program
- Reduced-cost or fully sponsored programming for underserved athletes
- Access to nutrition, body image, and mental wellness education
- Scholarship-based participation in Empowered Eating initiatives
Leadership Development
- Training future leaders in Empowered Eating
- Mentorship and peer leadership resources
- Development of athlete ambassadors
The Empowerment Project Initiative
- Empowered Eating Vending Machine Initiate
- Story-sharing platform development
- Community outreach and digital storytelling
Jessika Brown, Chair
Jessika is a Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders, committed to promoting healthy relationships with food and positive body image. With her expertise, she effectively challenges the status quo and provides support to individuals on their journey to recovery and lasting self-acceptance.
Taylor Colburn, Operations Manager
Taylor is a passionate advocate for the next generation. With a background in nutrition and psychology, her work is a blend of science, heart and faith. She believes in fostering an environment for young athletes where growth, resilience, and compassion are at the forefront of every challenge.
Lindsey Baldwin, Vice Chair
Lindsey is a pastor dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering mental health and self-acceptance. Her experience in pastoral care enables her to support conversations that challenge harmful narratives around body image and promote body positivity.
Andrea Cloak, Treasurer
Drea is an advocate involved in political campaigning, passionate about creating systemic change that promotes health and well-being for all. Her experience in grassroots organizing and community engagement empowers her to confront damaging messages and advocate for inclusive policies.
Bryn Anthony, Secretary
Bryn is a Registered Dietitian dedicated to transforming the way individuals perceive food and themselves. With a holistic approach that integrates nutrition education and emotional support, she empowers clients to break free from restrictive patterns and embrace body acceptance.
Kelsey Lenzmeier, Member at Large
Kelsey is a brand and website designer with a love for creating inclusive and impactful visual identities. Her expertise lies in crafting compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences, helping organizations like The Empowerment Project communicate their mission effectively.
Micah Howard, Volunteer
Micah is a psychology student, minoring in Nutrition, with a passion for the intersection of mental and physical health. Committed to making a meaningful difference in her community and pursuing a career in clinical counseling, Micah brings fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to TEP.
Join us in our mission to empower our youth and transform the conversation around health, wellness and social media. Whether you choose to sponsor a team or an athlete, your support makes a difference.
Get Involved Today!