“I’ve always seen myself as an underdog, which is why I’m passionate about empowering others like me through youth advocacy— uplifting people and reminding them that they, too, can be big in their own way.”
Erica Barnes has always been a force of nature, whether on the basketball court, in her time as a probation officer at a youth detention center, or now as a Workforce Inclusion Supervisor at PRIDE Industries. Her journey is one of transformation and a deep commitment to empowering others.
How Basketball and Family Shape a Lifetime
Growing up, Erica didn’t realize she was a gifted athlete until a friend invited her to play basketball in elementary school.
“From that day on, my life changed,” Erica said. “I wasn’t like other kids who hung out or dated—I was always practicing. At one point, I ran stadiums every day before school.”
Her dedication paid off.
“My dad and basketball instilled a lot of work ethics in me,” said Erica. “It’s how I got into the University of Arizona and then eventually in 2014 continued my professional basketball career overseas.”
But Erica’s passion extended beyond the court. Inspired by her father and uncle, both probation officers, she transitioned into youth advocacy.
From Athlete to Advocate
After returning to Sacramento, California, Erica became a probation officer at a youth detention facility.
“Since childhood, I’ve been passionate about working with youth, especially those who are justice-impacted or at risk,” she said. “Basketball shaped me into the woman I am today, and it helped me discover purpose in youth advocacy and giving back to my community.”
Her career took an unexpected turn during defensive tactics training when she sustained an injury that led to auditory processing disorder (APD).
“My life changed forever after the injury,” Erica said. “I had to relearn how to care for myself and be gentler with my body, mind, and spirit.”
Finding a New Purpose at PRIDE Industries
After her injury forced Erica to make major changes in her life, she discovered a new way to make an impact, one that would change not only her career but her sense of belonging. A recruiter introduced Erica to PRIDE Industries.
“Joining PRIDE Industries was a breath of fresh air,” Erica said. “The support and love, especially from my director, Andrea Rogozinski, made me feel at home. They were so understanding while I was going through audiology appointments, telling me, ‘You’re in control of your calendar.’ I’d never experienced that before, and it was such a shock, in the best way.”
Her dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Within two years, Erica advanced from Employment Specialist to Workforce Inclusion Supervisor, leading initiatives that empower youth with disabilities.
“I feel supported, I feel seen, and I can be me. We all have a light, and I’m able to be me and shine my light on others.”
Erica expanded her passion for youth advocacy by helping plan and execute PRIDE Industries’ Career Launchpad Summer Camp. As a mentor and guest speaker at the camp, Erica helped inspire more than 100 high school campers with disabilities, who had come to explore career readiness and post-secondary pathways.
“Helping Andrea bring our vision to life was incredible,” said Erica. “From planning to graduation, I felt like I was on cloud nine. Seeing the impact on the youth—the way it truly changed them—was beyond rewarding.”
Unfortunately, Erica’s journey took another turn when her stepmother passed away in a car accident just two months after she joined PRIDE Industries. But that never stopped Erica; in fact, it pushed her further.
“Losing her ignited something in me, it gave me my voice,” Erica said. “I was shy before, but now you can’t get me to be quiet. Her passing gave me even more purpose.”
A Growing Career in Youth Advocacy
Drawing strength from the passion of her stepmother, the mentorship of her father, and the work ethic of basketball, Erica continues to work hard in her support of youth. She sees a bright future for PRIDE Industries’ YES! Program, a service that supports opportunity youth in Sacramento and Placer counties, enabling them to gain the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers and to live independently.
“I see our YES! Program and team continuing to grow and I’m excited to be a part of that,” she said.
“I want to help, heal, and support youth. Life can be tough, but you can’t give up. Success is possible, and there are people here to help you.”
Her message to youth is simple yet powerful.
“I hope my story empowers and inspires you. You have a light—let it shine.”