Kathy G (right) with Rich Byam managing the shelter dorm desk
Katherine Grochowski, or “Kathy G,” grew up knowing it was vital to care for the people around you.
“We grew up poor with 15 children,” said Kathy. “No matter how little we had, mom and dad would always share. We knew we were always loved and cared for.”
Kathy has shown that mindset in her work with disasters. Kathy has been a Red Cross volunteer with the Kentucky Red Cross for 18 years, based out of Western Kentucky. She has been managing a shelter in Eastern Kentucky to help those impacted by recent flooding.
Kathy grew emotional sharing her memories of past deployments: “I started [volunteering] during Hurricane Katrina within the feeding department. I remember a mom with her 4-year-old girl. They were just so sad.” After a few days, Kathy said she saw the mom again and her demeanor had changed. She looked happier. Kathy spoke with her and found out that the foundation of their house had not washed away [during the storm]. The foundation and four posts remained standing, so the family could show proof that they lived there and would receive financial assistance. This is just one example of the many people that have touched Kathy.
“Giving back means everything,” said Kathy. “My mom and dad had a saying: when you share in the right spirit, it will be given back to you.”
Red Cross volunteers are the heart of what we do! If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please visit redcross.org/volunteer.
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