Meet new board member Cathy LaCount

How did you learn about the situation in the DRC?
Six years ago I was invited to a gathering at Dave and Kathy Chatelaine's home to meet Pastor Kubisa and his family. While my husband and I had been supporting children through Compassion and knew the conditions in Ethiopia, I did not know about the struggles in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or the danger facing Pastor Kubisa resulting in his living in a separate country than his family. When I met the family, they had recently been reunited. 

When and how did you get involved?
The Kubisa family sang and dialogued with our pastor during a church service at Trinity Lutheran in Owatonna.  A couple years later our church’s adult education forum featured Liz Andress and Wema Kubisa sharing about Mwendo Congo’s support for Congolese-led programs in the DRC and the impact on people’s lives.  After one of the presentations, I inquired about the possibility of having Liz and one of Kubisa's family members speak at Woman's Club of Owatonna.  After postponing for two years due to COVID, Liz and Wema were able to come, and they presented one of the best programs we have had at Woman's Club.  The members were in conversation following the program and for days afterwards.  Being a retired primary school teacher, I value the opportunity of education for community members about global realities, in a way that they can understand and respond.

Reflect on your experiences thus far on the board.
My first months on the board find me almost overwhelmed and at the same time in awe of this organization. The degree of commitment, compassion and professionalism are remarkable. I live in Owatonna, Minnesota.  As an out-state board member, I’m still discerning my role outside of praying for all and supporting the on-going mission of Mwendo Congo’s partners in the DRC. 

What fills your life these days?
Since retiring in 2007 from teaching, I have enjoyed volunteering mostly in outreach activities. My life has been enriched by all I meet who are under-privileged and experiencing food insecurity. I also volunteer in our hospital gift shop and with the hospital auxiliary.  I've been told I'm compassionate and insightful, determined to respect those I meet while volunteering. I enjoy decorating and creating warm, welcoming spaces.  Walking our dog, doing yoga and Pilates, and tending my geraniums and hydrangeas round out my life.

What is your vision for Mwendo Congo?

My vision for Mwendo Congo is that we continue to move forward with grants and other sources of funding to support those in the DRC and to educate others as to the needs and successes of Mwendo Congo.