Kristina Rivas | Co-Founder | Executive Director

After returning to Texarkana, Kristina knew that it was her time to step up and help lead the way. She brings with her over 20 years of combined experience in healthcare, marketing, higher education, and as a former small business owner. This work is incredibly personal to her. She knows exactly what can happen when a community steps in because she is the first generation removed from generational poverty. Kristina completed her Human and Family Development thesis and graduated with a Master of Science in Human Services from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Christina Huntze | 100 FAMILIES County Coordinator

Christina is a dedicated professional with a lifelong commitment to serving families and communities. A military dependent who lived across the United States, she relocated to Texarkana in 2009. For over 15 years, she has actively volunteered to support military families, and her passion for helping others deepened after graduating from Leadership Texarkana, where she gained a renewed appreciation for the compassion and resilience of the local community.

Christina brings extensive experience in both education and human resources. She has taught special education and served in various HR roles, combining her expertise to support individuals and organizations effectively. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in education, a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University–Texarkana and is currently pursuing a PhD in Human Resource Development at the University of Texas at Tyler.

LINDA TAYLOR | 100 FAMILIES FAMILY ADVOCATE

Linda brings over 35 years of knowledge in mental health and social services. Her experience includes working closely with Child Protective Services, Department of Health and Human Services, private and public psychiatric and drug rehabilitation facilities, and special education. Linda has also volunteered as a court appointed special advocate for children. She has a heart for helping others and empowering them to better help themselves. She earned her associate degree and licensure as a psychiatric technician while living in northern California. She relocated to the Texarkana area 20 years ago and completed her bachelor's degree at Texas A & M University-Texarkana with a concentration in behavioral science.

chris howell | SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR

Chris is a Texarkana, Texas native and a graduate of Texas High School. After serving honorably in the US Army, he moved to the DFW area in the late 90s and started a career in IT. However, he felt unfulfilled with his profession and in 2018, he enrolled at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. Chris graduated with a bachelor's degree in history a second bachelor's degree in psychology and has plans to pursue a graduate degree in social work. Chris first learned about 100 Families through a volunteer event hosted by the university. He was impressed with the dedication and genuineness of the staff and knew it was the right place for him. The following week Chris returned to volunteer and has been a part of the organization ever since.

Ashley Childs | 100 STUDENTS LIASON | Texarkana College

Ashley was born and raised in Texarkana, TX. After graduating from Liberty-Eylau, she went on to earn her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Henderson State University in sociology and school counseling, respectively. She has worked in higher education for over 10 years and loves helping support other first-generation students like herself. She is passionate about positively impacting students and their families' lives by meeting diverse needs and addressing issues to maintain efficiency and program outreach. Ashley comes from a big family and has six brothers and two sisters. She loves spending time with her friends and family.

LaKing Harris | Financial Coach

LaKing Harris, a Marine Corps veteran and dedicated financial coach with Ground Floor Collective, brings extensive expertise in financial literacy and community service. With an active General Lines license since 2018 and years of experience helping individuals and families build financial stability, LaKing combines practical strategies with a personalized, supportive approach. His work with various Texarkana organizations and veterans’ groups reflects his commitment to empowering clients to achieve financial goals and lasting security.