By Andi Anderson
Kimber Nicoletti-Martinez has spent over 25 years advocating for farmworker communities, particularly within Latinx populations.
As the director of the Multicultural Efforts to end Sexual Assault (MESA) and Latino farmworker outreach coordinator for the USDA-funded AgrAbility Project, she has made a significant impact on the lives of farmworkers in Indiana and beyond.
Nicoletti-Martinez's journey began with a drive to support Indiana farmworker families in 2002, collecting donations of gently used clothing and other essentials. Over the years, her efforts have grown into a nationally recognized advocacy platform, focusing on providing community-based solutions for healthier, violence-free communities.
Her work with the AgrAbility Project, which helps rural professionals understand the needs of farmers and agricultural workers with disabilities, reflects her commitment to creating comprehensive support systems for farmworkers.
Whether addressing physical disabilities or mental health challenges, Nicoletti-Martinez ensures that these often-overlooked populations receive the care and resources they need.
A Purdue graduate with a background in sociology and clinical social work, Nicoletti-Martinez has leveraged her education and personal experience as a farmworker to secure over $2.5 million in grants for her initiatives.
Despite her success in grant writing, she remains focused on engaging directly with farmworker communities, facilitating workshops, and delivering capacity-building programs.
Nicoletti-Martinez's work goes beyond traditional outreach, incorporating the arts to help farmworkers express their experiences and emotions. Her innovative approaches have made a lasting impact, evident when participants in her programs step up to lead and advocate for themselves.
Throughout her career, Nicoletti-Martinez has witnessed changes in the demographics and needs of Indiana's farmworker population. She has also become a key resource for information on migrant education and job training programs, often serving as a bridge between farmworker communities and educational opportunities.
Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2021 National Jefferson Award for Outstanding Public Service and the titles of Indiana’s Social Worker of the Year in 2017 and National Social Worker of the Year in 2018.
These honors motivate her to continue her work, knowing that the need for support in farmworker communities remains vast.
Nicoletti-Martinez's commitment to education and community empowerment continues to drive her efforts, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Education