Woman on a Mission: Kaitlyn Sester

It's an incredibly rewarding gift to serve the YWCA. - Kaitlyn Sester

Kaitlyn SesterYWCA Board of Directors, Vice President#ONAMISSION for 3 yearsHow did you first get involved at the YWCA?I joined the women's event committee because I love party planning, but then found a deep passion for our mission and wanting to do my part to support the YWCA.Who is the woman you look up to the most and why?I'd have to say my grandmother, Mary. She was incredibly hard working, very smart and financially savvy. She taught me so many things but she always demonstrated to me the power of love and empathy. She will forever be a role model to me.What are you most proud of in your work with the YWCA?I love being able to use my talents to help support the mission of the YWCA. I also love watching women in our community gather together to learn from one another, support each other and empower the future women of our community.What is one thing you've learned in your time on the board?There is so much need in our community, it can be overwhelming, but by bringing your authentic self to the table and being willing to help you truly can make a difference in another person's life. It's an incredibly rewarding gift to serve the YWCA. What drives you to do this work?I'm really driven by our current political and social climate. Now more than ever, women's voices have a chance to be heard and to impact our world. I love being able to say that I did at least something and tried than did nothing at all. Social justice is important not just to women but to ALL humans. It's what connects us and reminds us that we are all the same--we're people.What do you like to do for fun?I love spending time with my husband, family and friends. I don't have "hobbies" but I busy myself with home decor/crafts, baking, running and drinking wine!Who do you look up to or feel inspired by within the YWCA?Judy Olander, YWCA Board Member. Judy is such a beautiful soul. She's witty, very fun and she always shoots you straight. I love her humor and have enjoyed getting to know more about her. She is incredibly smart and she has so much knowledge and history of the YWCA and our Topeka Community. I feel like I get smarter just by sitting next to her in meetings! She's always made me feel welcomed and empowered me to share my thoughts and to always speak up.Final words of wisdom?It always amazes me how little people truly know about the YWCA. I just have to say it--we're NOT a gym and we do WAY more than only provide services and support to victims of domestic violence. We are an organization filled with individuals who are deeply passionate about our mission and we need the support of others to truly Empower Women and Eliminate Racism. Please call us and come visit, we have so many volunteer opportunities and ways for you to support the YWCA!Thank you, Kaitlyn!Like Kaitlyn said, there are so many ways to get involved. You can get involved by becoming a volunteer or donating to our mission today.