Meeting Kat: A Journey of Inspiration and Advocacy

Three days a week over this academic school year, a dedicated student named Kat can be found helping residents here at Capitol Lakes. Kat, a Masters of Social Work (MSW) student at UW-Madison, is spending her senior year as a social work intern in our community. Her passion for uplifting older adults and her personal experiences have made her a great addition to our team, and a true benefit to our residents. And thanks to your generous financial support, Kat receives a stipend that eases her tuition burden, allowing her to zero in on her internship at Capitol Lakes. Here, she gains hands-on experience with a demographic that holds deep meaning for her.

Kat grew up in Appleton, spending countless hours with her grandparents. It was during the pandemic that she noticed the profound social isolation affecting many older adults. This observation sparked her desire to pursue social work, igniting a passion for advocacy and dedication to those often overlooked in society.

Her transformative journey at UW-Madison began with a life-changing moment in her first Social Work class, which was led by Dr. Tracy Schroepfer, who also happens to sit on the Capitol Lakes Foundation board. “I fell in love with social work,” Kat says, emphasizing how powerful mentorship can shape the journey of aspiring professionals.

The inspiration did not end with her first course; she later enrolled in “Social Issues in Aging,” another impactful class taught by Dr. Schroepfer. This course offered Kat vital insights into the challenges faced by older adults and the significance of community engagement. Spurred by her new knowledge, she began volunteering with the activities team at Capitol Lakes, an experience that deepened her commitment to working with older adults.

Through her volunteer work, Kat witnessed the vibrant lives of residents along with the challenges they face. This encouraged her to choose Capitol Lakes as her internship placement for her senior year. Her internship responsibilities include connecting residents with essential community resources to support their transition from the Health Center back to their homes. Additionally, Kat advocates with insurance companies, ensuring that residents receive necessary care. This work has opened her eyes to the complexities of healthcare and social service systems, giving her practical skills that will serve her in her future career. With graduation from her MSW program on the horizon in 2026, Kat is determined to continue her advocacy for older adults.

As she passionately states, "Older adults are often overshadowed and misunderstood. I want to help them live their best lives and to be seen and appreciated." Her dedication highlights a commitment to making a real difference in the lives of those who have often felt marginalized.

The financial support she receives through her stipend is crucial. Kat understands the weight of student debt particularly for MSW graduates. She candidly reflects, "Unpaid internships required by our program can be hard, but that's why the money toward my tuition really helps and means so much." This statement underscores the value of support systems for interns like Kat, who are committed to their passions but encounter financial obstacles.

Kat’s journey stands as a powerful testament to the impact of mentorship, education, and community support. As she works towards her career in social work, she embodies the advocacy spirit and care that many older adults need. Supporting students like Kat is an investment in the future of social work and community wellness. By providing stipends and resources, you are helping aspiring professionals break down financial barriers so they can focus on their important work. Kat’s story highlights how essential it is to create a supportive environment for those pursuing a passionate career in advocacy and service.