Profile: Philanthropist Kate Atwood

KATE'S CLUB IS REALLY GREAT     (6/8/15)

      For children who have lost one or more parents, life can be very hard.  In Atlanta, there's a great organization for kids in this situation.  It is called ‘Kate’s Club’.

     At age 6, Kate Atwood watched her mother fight cancer.  She lost her by the age of 12. 

     "My involvement with a bereavement camp in Virginia led me to discover my healing," said Atwood.   "...by bringing me comfort among others who had experienced this loss."

      Based on her childhood experience, Kate was inspired to help other children unite with their peers who shared a similar loss experience so they would know they were not alone in their grieving.

     "Grief is a normal reaction to loss in someone's life," said Atwood.  "Grieving children may act-out,  have trouble focusing or have low academic performance."

      Kate’s Club started in June 2003 with only six children.  They met at a local bowling alley.  Nearly twelve years later, they have touched the lives of more than 1,000 children and their families.

     "We engage our members and volunteers each year in four main programs," said Atwood.  "These events provide social, recreational and emotional support to the children of Kate’s Club."

 

     Former NBC Today Show co-host Meredith Vieira did a national story about the organization, which really helped.

    “After the show, we had people calling from all-over the country,” said Kristyn Back, Development Coordinator.  “Other places wanted to start a Kate’s Club, and we began to see a lot of donations coming in.” 

      The organization helps children in many ways, the best of which provides trained counselors who can help the children through the loss process. 

     If you know of a child who has experienced the loss of a parent, contact the organization to hear more about the programs: 404-347-7619 or email  programs@katesclub.org.

---Ray Macon