October Volunteer of the Month: Katherine Goodwin

Congratulations to our October Volunteer of the Month, Katherine Goodwin!

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Katherine Goodwin (left) with her friend and roommate Autumn Funderburg at the inaugural Athens Race for the Cure.

Katherine’s involvement started earlier this year as a Mission intern who helped to grow the Worship In Pink program in Southeast Ohio. She remained involved and volunteered to help at service fairs and other events. Natalie Guagenti, our volunteer and events manager, worked closely with Katherine and nominated her because of the way she related to people.

“Having lost her mother to breast cancer several years ago, Katherine has such passion and dedication to our cause and it shines through in the way she has become so involved with our Affiliate in such a short period of time,” said Guagenti, who added, “she took on more of a leadership role with the Athens Race registration committee which involved three days of her time. She did all of this while mourning the tragic loss of her brother.”

Katherine has  servant’s heart and we are grateful to honor her hard work with this recognition.

Katherine shares with us, in her own words, why she volunteers for Komen Columbus.

What (or whom) inspired you to get involved with Komen Columbus?

My mom inspired me to get involved with Komen Columbus; she was diagnosed with breast cancer at a very young age and passed away when she was only 40 years old. Although I never had the chance to run in the Race for the Cure or volunteer with her, the way she battled cancer and remained strong throughout her diagnosis really inspired me to help women who are battling the disease.

What’s your favorite part about volunteering with Komen Columbus?

My favorite part about volunteering with Komen Columbus is being able to meet people who care about helping women with breast cancer as much as I do. I’ve met so many incredible people and learned so much. It’s really great being part of such a powerful and influential organization.

What is the most memorable moment or event you’ve experienced with Komen Columbus? And why?

My most memorable event I’ve experienced with Komen Columbus would probably be the Worship in Pink event in Columbus. I couldn’t believe how many people attended and how many people would be reached through that one program. I learned so much about breast cancer that day and felt so inspired by the women who attended and wanted to educate their community.

When you’re not volunteering for Komen Columbus, what do you like to do?

When I’m not volunteering for Komen Columbus I like to watch sports (especially the St. Louis Cardinals and the Columbus Blue Jackets). I also enjoy going to school events and volunteering around campus.