Blog
Voices From the Field: Turning Uncertainty into Hope
How National Mission Institutions Rise to Meet Federal Policy Impacts
Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 23, at 4 p.m. ET for our next Voices from the Field virtual webinar. We will speak with representatives from National Mission Institutions across the country that are supported by United Women in Faith.
Since Inauguration Day in January 2025, the White House has issued a slew of executive orders that have impacted the way the federal government operates, as well as agencies and organizations that engage in DEI work, immigration, climate justice, housing, early childhood education programs, and more. In July 2025, the budget bill was passed
Some NMIs have experienced immediate and significant impact to their ministries, due to these Federal policy changes. Affected NMIs include Good Neighbor Settlement House, Toberman Neighborhood Center, and Families Forward.
NMI services are wide ranging and include aiding unhoused individuals, migrants, and low-income families; providing after school programs and food pantries; bridging gaps between law enforcement and community members; community outreach, and so much more.
Our guest from three National Mission Institutions will talk about the impact on the community, changes they have made to their budgets, staffing, and programs, and how they plan to meet these challenges in a way that keeps their service and advocacy ministries operating.
Guests:
Astrid A. Dominguez
Astrid A. Dominguez is a dedicated community advocate and the executive director of Good Neighbor Settlement House (GNSH) in Brownsville, Texas. A proud Brownsville native and fronteriza, she is a first-generation immigrant who serves her community and champions civil and human rights.
In her role at GNSH, a 72-year-old multi-service nonprofit, Astrid leads efforts to assist vulnerable populations, including unhoused individuals, low-income families, and newcomers. Under her guidance, GNSH continues to be a vital resource for those in need, providing crucial support and services to the Brownsville community.
Dr. Lupe Rivera
Dr. Lupe Rivera is a visionary nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience. She became CEO of Toberman Neighborhood Center in 2022, and in just 3 years achieved 100 percent contractual performance for its FamilySource Center and GRYD programs. Rivera also secured $1 million in Department of Justice funding for the Harbor Area, doubled access to food pantry services, established mental health services for young people, and more.
Dr. Rivera holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Redlands, a Master’s in Nonprofit Management from Antioch University, and a Doctorate in Executive Leadership and Transformation from National University. She is also a nationally recognized Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP).
Suzanne Zutter
Suzanne Zutter is the executive director of Families Forward in Des Moines, Iowa, bringing over 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience in fundraising, strategic planning, and community collaboration. With a Master’s degree in Management from Hamline University and a proven track record of orchestrating fundraising campaigns exceeding $20 million, Suzanne has led transformational initiatives at organizations across the country, including the United Way chapters, animal rescue organizations, and various human service agencies.
Suzanne feels deeply blessed to lead Families Forward and treasures the organization’s covenant partnership with United Women in Faith.
Despite the odds, these organizations founded by United Women in Faith’s foremothers continue to faithfully serve.
Don’t miss this Voices From the Field virtual event and the opportunity to hear directly from those on the ground, and engage and connect with United Women in Faith members.
An optional breakout session will follow the one-hour program.
