Favorite activity or hobby as a kid? 

As a kid, Kate loved going on bike rides, swimming in lakes while picking seaweed with her dad. Kate also enjoyed playing kick the can with the neighborhood kids—so many great memories of being outside and connecting with others.  

Fun or unusual talent or skill?

Kate is surprisingly good at peeling oranges—her speed and precision are unmatched!  

What inspired you to start working in this role?  

Kate has been connected to this organization for a long time, first working for RCY 15 years ago and then serving as a board member for a three-year term 11 years ago. Kate loves this organization and the work it does with youth. Working with young people gives Kate energy and the feeling that she is truly making a difference in their lives.  

What’s one goal or dream for the organization in the future?  

Kate envision’s a community center for youth where all organizations working with young people have a shared space. This would be a safe and supportive place for youth of all ages to find resources, programming, and a sense of belonging.  

Favorite quote or motto you live by?  

“Change is the only constant.”  

What’s your passion project outside of River City Youth?

When Wilson isn’t with River City Youth, he’s experimenting in the kitchen—whether it’s perfecting his chicken-and-dumplings with dark soy and shiitakes or creating a hearty squash stew with hatch chiles. Cooking is his way of bringing new flavors to life.

What was your favorite activity or hobby as a kid? 

As a kid, Wilson was all about exploring the outdoors, dreaming of being a paleontologist or biologist. His love for nature led him to youth programs focused on hiking and camping, a passion he continues to share with young people today.

What’s a fun or unusual talent or skill you have? 

Wilson’s secret talent? Karaoke! He’s known for his go-to performances of Tom Petty’s "Won’t Back Down" and Neil Diamond’s "Sweet Caroline".

What inspired you to join River City Youth? 

Having worked with youth and families in West Central for eight years, Wilson is inspired by the power of helping young people discover how their interests can shape their futures. He’s excited to be part of RCY, where youth growth and community-building come first.

What’s one goal or dream you have for the organization in the future?

Wilson’s dream for RCY is to empower youth to take a greater role in shaping the organization and to see new initiatives that start with youth ideas—whether inspired by conversations on bikes or at the farmer’s market.

Favorite quote or motto you live by?

"Don’t make the perfect the enemy of the good."