For over a decade, working at the Cancer Support Center was a natural fit for Kathleen Daly, particularly the past two years she dedicated to helping families dealing with cancer as director of the organization.
But that dedication to her job has been competing with her love for her three youngsters, so she recently decided to step down from her leadership role.
Daly said her decision was made a little easier knowing her position would be filled by Kristen Kolwelter, CSC’s director of Development & Communications for nearly two years. Daly will be staying on to help with the transition.
“I feel really lucky we had Kristen here to step into that (role),” said Daly, who has worked for the nonprofit in Homewood and Mokena since 2013, first as an art therapist, then program director before becoming executive director. “She has a really great way of keeping that larger picture (in mind)…she has a great mind for that.”
Daly, who lives with her family in Chicago’s Mt. Greenwood neighborhood, said she has children ages 5, 4 and 2, who could use more of her attention. She plans to switch to some private practice work, such as art therapy and talk therapy.
“It’s a balance between family and what this place really deserves,” Daly said.
Founded by volunteers in 1992, the Cancer Support Center’s mission is “to provide strength, guidance, and support to anyone impacted by cancer — whoever and wherever they are,” according to the organization’s website, www.cancersupportcenter.org. Programs, which are free and take place in a cozy, relaxed setting, include meditation, guided relaxation and fitness, diet and nutrition, a wig boutique and education and networking.
That mission spoke to Daly and many of the center’s other employees, board members, volunteers and supporters.
“Meeting people where they are, for however long they need us,” said Daly. “Just being able to provide people support … in whatever capacity we can.”
Among the offerings that have expanded during Daly’s two years are resources offered to children and family members of the organization’s clients.
“It’s just a really unique situation to work and help individuals who have their mortality at the forefront of their lives,” Daly said, “living every day with the reminder that time is precious and short.”
Empathy for those stricken with the disease also drew Kolwelter to the center. Like Daly, Kolwelter has had close family members with cancer.
“This is such a unique organization because it is so person-driven,” Kolwelter said. “Strong relationships are very important and drive our mission forward.”
Kolwelter was chosen for the job because of her contributions to events, development and “innovative ideas and strategic approach,” Daly said in a letter announcing the leadership change.
Before coming to the center, Kolwelter was marketing manager at Lightways Hospice in Joliet and senior development manager at the American Cancer Society in Tinley Park. She lives with her family in Custer Park near Wilmington on a working farm, growing corn and beans and raising goats, cows, a donkey and their pet dog.
“Really my priorities are just building on the foundation that Kathleen has built and continuing to drive our mission forward and continuing to reach more people,” Kolwelter said, adding she is looking forward to learning more about the programing side of the organization and working closely with participants.
“Everyone is faced with cancer,” she pointed out.
Daly said she plans to remain involved at the center, participating in events like the Walk of Hope and leading an art class from time to time. There are also plans for an event for staff, board members and the public to say goodbye to her on July 17.
“I love it here,” Daly said.
Janice Neumann is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
