About REACH at Cedar Creek Lake

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President

Co-founder

With over 20 years of experience supporting families and parents, Lana Ahrens leads REACH as its President, bringing a passion for empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building communities. She believes that the foundation for lifelong success begins with a healthy, loving family, and that small shifts in communication can lead to lasting, positive outcomes.

At REACH, her leadership shines as she oversees daily operations, infusing them with creativity and joy. She facilitates art workshops, provides advocacy services, and spearheads initiatives like the drug-free youth coalition. Her inclusive approach fosters a sense of value and belonging among all participants, making her an integral figure and driving force behind REACH’s mission.

Specializing in the use of art as a transformative tool for self-exploration and connection, Lana takes a holistic approach to healthful living that encompasses physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Her work emphasizes positive communication, problem-solving, and nurturing children to be responsible and independent.

In addition to her work at REACH, she has served as an education advocate for children with special needs, participating in the IEP process and supporting both children and their families. Her experience also includes work as a Family Support Counselor, visiting homes after referrals to family protective services to provide essential resources that help keep children safe from abuse and neglect.

A proud Girl Scouts leader for 10 years, Lana embodies the values of service, leadership, and personal growth. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Family Studies from California State University, Northridge, providing a strong academic foundation for her work. Through collaboration with A Window Between Worlds, she facilitates trauma-informed healing art workshops, bringing hope and healing to those in need.

Her ultimate goal is to foster cooperation, understanding, and growth, helping individuals thrive as the best versions of themselves.

Contact: LanaA@REACHccl.org

Call or Text: 903-386-3484

 Treasurer

Co-founder

A lifelong resident of Cedar Creek Lake and proud graduate of Mabank High School, Ashley has deep roots in the community. She uses her intimate knowledge of the area to extend support and encouragement to all. As a devoted mother of two remarkable boys, Ashley leverages her firsthand experience navigating challenges like epilepsy, autism, and food allergies to become a staunch advocate for parents.

Her dedication to REACH shines through her various contributions. She guides parents at advocacy workshops, administers our virtual support network on Facebook, and assists with art workshops. Ashley's familiarity with the area she holds dear allows her to effectively coordinate the community calendar. Her unwavering optimism and invaluable insights into her home town make her a privilege to have at REACH.

Contact:  AshleyK@REACHccl.org 

Board Member

Jacey is a multifaceted professional known for her diverse talents and passions. As the author of "9 Days of Deities," she explores the realms of mythology and spirituality. Additionally, she is the proud owner of Dreamy Dogs, where she combines her love for animals and creativity as a competitive groomer specializing in creative grooming.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Jacey is a dedicated advocate for both animals and women's empowerment. She is a valued member of our Animal Advocate Committee and lead facilitator of our Women's Art Empowerment Workshops. Her commitment to these causes extends to her work in trauma healing, where she utilizes her expertise to support individuals in their journey towards healing and resilience.  Art is not only a hobby but a central aspect of Jacey's life. Through her various endeavors, Jacey continues to make a positive impact in the realms of literature, animal welfare, women's empowerment, and trauma healing. 

Contact:  JaceyH@REACHccl.org 

Animal Advocate Committee Chair

Monika brings over 20 years of dedicated volunteer experience to the table, having served as an officer on the boards of two animal rescue non-profits. Her passion for animal welfare is further fueled by her academic background: a BS from Purdue University, an MBA from Southern Methodist University, and a prestigious Executive Leadership Certification in Animal Shelter Management from Southern Utah University (sponsored by Best Friends Animal Society). 

Through this specialized training, Monika gained invaluable insights into best practices for animal welfare leadership. This includes collaborating with local non-profits and elected officials to modernize animal control ordinances in favor of lifesaving measures. 

Her unique combination of expertise in consumer product management and animal shelter direction makes her a strategic asset. Monika excels at planning, execution, and clear communication - all crucial skills for tackling REACH's Animal Advocacy Committee. 

Her unique combination of expertise in consumer product management and animal shelter direction makes her a strategic asset. Monika excels at planning, execution, and clear communication - all crucial skills for tackling REACH's Animal Advocacy Committee key priorities: Promoting Spaying/Neutering: Monika spearheads educational initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of spaying/neutering pets and provides resources for low-cost services in the community. Pet Support Programs: She leads efforts to supply pet food to local food pantries and organize affordable vaccination & microchip clinics for pet owners. Legislative Advocacy: Monika works closely with elected officials to update animal control ordinances, aligning them with best practices adopted in other less-populated regions of Texas.

Monika's blend of passion, experience, and expertise makes her a powerful advocate for the well-being of animals in the community. 

Contact:  Advocacy@REACHccl.org