by Ara Rexford
A Columbus woman is using her personal health journey and career to give back to communities across the country. Kitty Stephens began her volunteer work with the American Red Cross seven years ago, following her recovery from breast cancer. Her triumph over the disease inspired her to help others in need. Every September, to mark the anniversary of her victory over breast cancer, Kitty makes an effort to volunteer on a Red Cross disaster response mission somewhere in the country.
In her day job, Kitty is a supervisor and social worker for mentally challenged children. Within the past two years, Kitty was promoted to develop the OhioRISE (Resilience through Integrated Systems and Excellence) program, a specialized managed care program for youth with complex behavioral health and multisystem needs. Because of her background, she has a keen understanding of how to best help people navigate their emotional struggles.
Since joining the Red Cross as a Disaster Mental Health volunteer, Kitty has deployed to disasters around the country 15 times, with one of her most recent assignments being in Western North Carolina to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene.
During her time in Asheville, Kitty met a survivor who had lost a loved one in the flooding caused by the Hurricane. The woman was a bus driver for special education students. In order to connect with this woman, Kitty traveled with the woman on her bus route listening to her story and helping her process her grief.
Along the bus route, Kitty was struck by the kindness of the community she was helping. Everywhere she looked, she saw how tightly knit the people were, each doing their part to rebuild, despite facing the same devastation. Kitty noted that the local radio station was constantly broadcasting, directing those in need to Red Cross shelters, water, and other essential supplies.
After her experience with the bus driver, Kitty stopped by one of the local churches. She spotted a woman sitting alone with her dog and, without saying much, simply sat with her for about an hour. Kitty listened quietly, offering a safe space for the woman to express her feelings and release her emotions. This is a common theme that Kitty has come to realize. “The Red Cross provides so much support, people will help you help them. It really shows the power of human connection.”
Kitty has faced similar experiences in each of the 15 disasters she’s traveled to in her seven years as a Red Cross volunteer. “Just be there. Your presence is enough. That’s what these communities want and need—just to know that they’ll have an open heart from the Red Cross.”
When asked if she had any advice for future volunteers, Kitty said, “Just do it! Be gumptious and flexible. You’ll get more out of it than you’d ever expect. It’s a wonderful experience—very heartwarming, very cool!” Kitty concluded with a final thought, explaining how she finds her strength: “Making somebody smile and giving them a hug is so impactful. Just being yourself and being there for someone is what matters most. The little things are what count!”
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