After more than 40 years teaching at secondary and post-secondary schools in Illinois and Hawai‘i, Kathy Jaycox is now dedicated to volunteering for nonprofits. The work touches her heart and soul, she says.
Kathy believes that “To whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48).” This line of Biblical wisdom reminds us that we are held responsible for what we have. If we have been blessed with talents, wealth, knowledge and time, it is expected that we use them to benefit others.
Past affiliations include service as a board member and president of Faith Action for Community Equity, and the Windward O‘ahu branch of the American Association of University Women, where she continues as a member.
Kathy says she feels rewarded when she sees volunteer actions lead to positive change. The most outstanding, she said, was the passage of Act 102 in 2017, which provided financial support to family caregivers so that they could hire respite workers and not need to give up their own employment.
Currently, Kathy serves on the executive council of AARP Hawai‘i doing outreach. She teaches, speaks to groups and helps in whatever capacity is needed. Her role on the board of directors for the Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society includes serving on the workforce development, publicity, newsletter, and website committees. Kathy is also a member of the Kupuna Caucus, a volunteer at St. John Vianney Church and on the board of St. John Vianney School.
