Next in our Meet the Team series is Kathleen Boss!
Kathleen, Chief Program Officer, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Science and Services, with concentrations in Adulthood and Aging and Management Studies, from the University of Rhode Island. She joined Gilda’s Club Chicago in 2001. She has more than 25 years of professional experience in program development, relationship building and healthcare-related outreach. Kathleen serves on several community advisory committees.
What’s your favorite memory of working at Gilda’s Club?
Christmas 2020! COVID may have taken away our in-person activities but it did not stop our annual Noogie Holiday Event. Santa, elves and GC staff took to the street to make personal deliveries from the back of a “sleigh-like” pickup truck. Families came running out of the house and kids were hoisted into the bed of the truck to tell Santa their wish list and pick a gift. Santa’s route went north to south, city to suburbs and lasted until dusk. The biggest gift was received by the staff and volunteers.
What’s your favorite thing about your job?
I am so inspired by the strength and resilience that our members show each and every day. It is truly an honor to stand witness.
What’s your go-to coffee order (or favorite drink to start the day)?
A simple Trader Joe’s French Roast, brewed at home with almond milk
If someone walked into the office, what is the topic of conversation you are leading?
I’m probably talking about my family.
It’s lunch time, what are you eating?
I try to bring my lunch. But I am also a huge FOMO, so if my co-workers are grabbing lunch I am probably joining them.
What’s the best concert or live event you’ve every attended?
While visiting Pittsburg for GCC, we learned that Bruce Springsteen was going to make an appearance with a NJ band playing in a small auditorium at Pitt. We were able to get tickets from a colleague in hopes of seeing Bruce sing a song or two. He did come out to sing a few songs…..and then he stayed for the rest of the concert singing or handing our “beverages” to the audience. He even closed the concert with one of my favorites, Thunder Road.
Are you a life-long Chicagoan or are you a transplant? If a transplant, from where?
Originally a Jersey Girl, I moved to Chicago for “a couple of years” on my way back from MO to the east coast. Who knew that I would meet the love of my life and his four children in my second year here? We added a fifth and then five grandchildren came along. The only thing I really miss is the ocean. So, our family vacations often take place on the Jersey Shore…nothing like the tv show!