Key Member Spotlight: Kathy Kreeger
Since 2016, Kathy Kreeger, has provided monthly financial support for our work to end homelessness. Her support over the years has meant that hundreds of homeless families now have the safety of a home. We love getting to know our supporters, and, as one of our longest-standing Key Members, we wanted to reach out to learn more about Kathy and her generous commitment to our work.
MIRIAM’S HOUSE (MH): TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF!
Kathy: I'm a mis-placed Australian, but have now lived in the US for longer than I lived at home. I live in Amherst, but work in Charlottesville and have been doing the rather beautiful commute up and down Route 29 for more than 20 years. I'm married with two boys in their 20s, too many dogs, and a cat.
THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT NONPROFITS IN THE COMMUNITY. TELL US WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE TO SUPPORT MIRIAM’S HOUSE?
I've never understood the expectation that people should just 'get a job', especially when they're homeless. I'm not even sure how that's possible. And kids going to school with no actual address? Just breaks my heart.
WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO GIVE MONTHLY?
I am fortunate that, while we're not wealthy, we are comfortable, so while I can afford it, I will support as many non-profits as I can. I also work for one, so I understand that having a guaranteed income source every month is a big thing.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH THE BROADER COMMUNITY TO INSPIRE THEM TO JOIN THE KEY?
I used to look at those little 'box tops for education' things when I was buying groceries, and think 'what possible use could 10¢ be?'—and then I volunteered with our local elementary school PTA and discovered that when a whole bunch of people sent in their little box tops, it turned into a decent amount of money. It really takes a lot less than you think to make a difference.
WHEN NOT HELPING TO END HOMELESSNESS IN LYNCHBURG, I CAN BE FOUND:
Knitting (and doing jigsaw puzzles in my lunch hour with my boss).
Members of The Key, like Kathy, have committed to financially supporting Miriam’s House through a donation amount of their choosing. This sustaining support ensures that hundreds of homeless families and individuals are given not only the physical key of a home but keys to independence, opportunity, and safety through the work of Miriam’s House.
Kathy along with this transformative group of givers are empowering individuals and unlocking homes and hopes for our most vulnerable neighbors, and we are so grateful.