VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Kate Monzo, Heart House North
There is a glow about Kate Monzo that tells so much about her. She’s a combination of warmth and practicality that is an amazing asset to the Heart House Volunteer family and to the children we serve. Kate started with HH just this fall, but has been a superstar the entire time, putting together projects, pitching ideas for improvement (with a smile), and always willing to do a little extra and stay a little longer.
“My favorite little moment with the HH kids keeps happening over and over. I love it when I see the kids go through a problem rationally and solve the problem together. Another moment that was pretty cool was on the first day I volunteered. I was really excited but also a bit nervous. As I waited for the kids to arrive from school with the group leaders, I was getting really anxious. I wasn't sure if the kids would like me or want my help. Well, as soon as they came through the door, I was greeted with lots of smiles and questions and stories. My nervousness instantly went away. That was definitely a favorite moment.”
Kate was recently invited to join the newly formed Volunteer Advisory Committee where, as a member, she took the initiative to contact her local neighborhood association to set up a Heart House volunteer presentation. Another interesting project she is working on is a marker drive for Heart House kids.
Kate is currently a graduate research assistant and teaching assistant and a graduate student in the Molecular Cell and Developmental program at the University of Texas. She’s studying a gene that causes Fragile X Syndrome, a common form of mental retardation in humans, and plans to graduate with a PhD in August of this year. Other interesting facts about Kate:
What is your favorite color?
I'm from Chicago and miss it dearly. I think my favorite color is the steel blue of Lake Michigan in the winter.
If you could be any animal in the world what would you be and why?
Probably a dog or a wolf. I love being part of a pack and knowing I can depend on others.
What is your favorite food?
I love simple food, especially Hungarian food. My fiancé’s mother is Hungarian and cooks for us whenever she can.
What hobbies do you have?
I love hanging out with my two dogs, Nellie and Junco. We love to go camping and hiking. I have been knitting since I was little and love to do it when I can find the time. I am also an avid reader, lately I have been reading mostly science fiction.
Thank you Ms. Kate! We are lucky to have you. It is an absolute pleasure to have Kate on our team. She infuses Heart House with a pragmatic sensibility; a quality that is so beneficial to the development of Heart House children. We hope she stays with our “pack” for years to come.
