Board Member Spotlight: Kathy Kolander
At the heart of every impactful non-profit organization, such as the Vulnerable Children’s Foundation (VCF), lies a dedicated team of individuals whose passion and commitment fuel the organization’s mission at its core. Today, we are delighted to introduce you to one of the remarkable individuals on the VCF’s Governing Board, Treasurer Kathy Kolander. We recently sat down with Kathy to learn more about her connection to the VCF, her role on the board, and the amazing impact she has seen the VCF make.
What is your connection to the VCF? How did you learn of it?
The VCF’s founders, Dr. Heinz & Alice Hoenecke, are my sister-in-law’s parents, and it seems I’ve known them my entire life. Throughout the years, they were always doing some type of humanitarian mission work in different parts of Africa. I’ve loved seeing pictures and hearing of the joy they brought to villages in very unique ways: projects like providing sewing machines so people could make a living, and solar ovens because wood was scarce. These are just two examples of Heinz and Alice being able to identify the need—and then making the effort to satisfy that need.
This applies to the creation of the VCF itself, with the mission of offering schooling to orphaned and other vulnerable children. (Investigate our website to read the full story!) While I’ve been able to financially help in some projects, the moment I was asked to take over as Treasurer, I willingly did so.
As Treasurer for the VCF, what do your responsibilities entail?
Primarily, I deposit any donations, send receipts, get our taxes done, and ensure that our non-profit license is up-to-date. I also wire the monies to the LCCA upon the direction of the board.
How has serving on the board impacted you personally? Can you share a rewarding aspect of board membership?
During board meetings, we talk a great deal about raising money, obviously. But I can assure you that when we talk about funds, we are not thinking “dollars.” Our focus is keeping the schools open and, as of this year, keeping the kids fed each school day. When we first started the lunch program, we didn’t really know how long we could fund it. But God blessed our efforts. Being Treasurer, I am overjoyed with each donation, large and small. I see all of them, not just the bottom line, and I know many of the donors who are so happy to give.
What is something interesting or impactful you can share about the VCF that most people don’t know?
The third generation of Hoeneckes are now beginning to get involved with the VCF. It is our hope and prayer that they will continue this work for many years to come.
Can you share a story or experience from your time serving with the VCF that stands out to you?
Early on when I first became Treasurer, we were just starting the food program. Surveys of the kids found that, for many of them, a daily meal was not always available to them. We were to transfer money to the schools for the lunches, and we were short—a fairly significant amount (to me anyway). And I personally made up the difference. I say that not as a pat on the back, especially since others have given much more. The point is that these little lambs, whom I have never met, have become very important to me. They are thrilled by getting lunch. LUNCH! It brings home just how much we have and on how little they exist. I couldn’t eat another meal knowing they may not.
When not serving as the VCF Treasurer, what do your days entail? Whereabouts are your home and church?
I am in Appleton, WI, at Mount Olive Lutheran, where I was confirmed. I am going into my 35th year as a convention planner. Since 1999, I’ve been a consultant working out of my home. I am cutting back these days and hope to retire fully in 2025.
Anything else you would like to add?
It truly is remarkable how far the American dollar goes in Africa: only $125 per child per year for schooling and meals they would otherwise not receive. We can do more. We can easily do more. Share our website. Encourage your friends to give. Pray for the health, education, and spiritual welfare of these vulnerable children. Giving these little ones the chance to hear about Jesus every day is everything.
Kathy’s passion and dedication are truly inspiring and appreciated; we are so very grateful for her service to the VCF. If you would like to support the VCF with your prayers or financial gifts as well, please visit our website or reach out to learn more.
