Samantha Barber
Founder, President
sbarber@reachingoutnow.org
Samantha Barber is a dedicated nonprofit leader, community advocate, and the visionary Founder and President of Reaching Out Now. With over 25 years of experience spanning the nonprofit, education, business, and financial sectors, Samantha has spent her career empowering youth and women to thrive—both in and beyond the classroom.
Her passion for service is deeply rooted in lived experience. After witnessing the everyday struggles of families trying to support their children’s education, Samantha felt called to take action. In 2008, she founded Reaching Out Now with a mission to uplift students and families through mentorship, leadership, and connection. What began as a grassroots effort has evolved into a respected community-based organization, supporting students across the Shenandoah Valley.
Samantha leads with heart, authenticity, and a belief that every young person deserves the chance to succeed, regardless of their background. Her leadership has helped build strong partnerships between schools, families, and local organizations—all working together to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for youth.
In addition to her work with Reaching Out Now, Samantha serves as Director of Community Engagement for People Inc., a regional nonprofit, where she: advises executive leadership, fosters community partnerships, and advocates for equity and opportunity across multiple jurisdictions.
She has received numerous honors for her work, including state and national recognition for nonprofit leadership, and continues to serve on regional boards and councils that focus on education, equity, and community development.
Samantha is a sought-after speaker and thought leader on topics such as youth advocacy, women’s empowerment, and building strong, mission-driven organizations. She brings a spirit of compassion and determination to every space she enters—and remains deeply committed to helping the next generation rise.
Joe Barber
Co-Founder, Director of Business Strategies
joebarber@reachingoutnow.org
Joseph Barber brings over three decades of leadership in corporate management and customer service to his role as Co-Founder and Director of Business Strategies at Reaching Out Now. With a career spanning several Fortune 500 companies, including Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Costco Wholesale, Joe has consistently led with integrity, purpose, and a people-centered approach to business.
He began his professional journey as a general manager with Hechinger Home Improvement, where a culture of family values and servant leadership shaped his lifelong commitment to community and team development. Throughout his career, Joe has championed efforts to support veterans, uplift underserved communities, and create inclusive environments where people feel valued.
Joe was introduced to the mission of Reaching Out Now after learning about the struggles many students face regarding food insecurity and systemic barriers to success. Moved by the needs of underserved youth, he joined Samantha, who would become his wife, in building the organization with a shared vision: that every child deserves to be seen, supported, and given the tools to succeed.
Now retired from corporate life, Joe has dedicated his time to advancing the strategic direction of Reaching Out Now. As Director of Business Strategies, he brings operational insight, logistical leadership, and a steady hand to the organization’s continued growth. He plays a key role in organization strategy, community partnerships, and holds a special space in his heart for the work at the Student Union—ensuring that the organization remains sustainable and effective in fulfilling its mission.
Joe lives in the Shenandoah Valley with Samantha and is a proud father of two. His daughter, now a graduate of James Madison University, works in the field of communications and social media, while his son attends Shenandoah University, where he studies engineering and plays collegiate baseball. When Joe’s not working alongside Samantha or supporting local youth events, you’ll likely find him riding his Harley through the Blue Ridge Mountains or cheering from the stands at the ballfield.
Message from the Founder
Dear Friends,
It is with a heart filled with joy, yet emotions of sorrow for an abundance of need in our community that I write to you our partners, contributors, affiliates, parents, teachers, family, and friends. I have such a desire to serve and make a difference in the lives of school-aged girls, young women, and our public-school teachers; thus, my passion for starting Reaching Out Now was born. I am but one, but I am thankful to God who has surrounded me with passionate individuals who share the passion and vision to make a difference and leading the next generation to believe that their true potential is within reach.
I am very much aware of how it feels to be in need, not to trust, to feel neglected, to feel ashamed, and to be lost and hopeless with no one in sight to help or to comfort. Coming together as a community is what Reaching Out Now is all about. We desire to work together, not apart. With your help and support, we can make it happen. We are committed, dedicated, and focused, to create programs that will serve students and families in the public schools’ community. RON will challenge those we serve to build a bridge that reaches victory, make confident decisions that will set them on a path to success. We will incorporate our core values of focus, love, dedication, and commitment by providing the tools they need during this crucial phase of their young lives.
We care for our teachers and recognize that they are the heart of our community and the educational development of our children. Everything starts with a seed, and our teachers plant seeds of greatness in the lives of our children; they are indeed the core of helping our children. Successful individuals often attribute part of their success to the nurturing and positive impact a teacher made on their lives. We at Reaching Out Now appreciate the relationship and partnership with teachers and want to alleviate the stress by supporting the classroom. The ripple effect of this support will help students, schools, and the overall community. Thank you for your assistance in being a part of the Reaching Out Now family as we work together to make a difference in the lives of our female students in our community.
Sincerest appreciation,
Samantha N. Barber
Founder and President
Reaching Out Now, Inc.
