Today we’d like to introduce you to Kateryne Lora.
Hi Kateryne, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As a New York Native, I came to Utah for a job in the wilderness. I wanted to make a difference by sharing my own experiences with teens who were going through similar turmoil. Little did I know this would be one of the hardest jobs. I loved getting to know my peers, learning therapeutic techniques, analyzing my traumas, and working through them alongside these teens.
Living and breathing the desert and all it has to offer was eye-opening and grounding. I felt for these children and wanted to help them but I felt this was a bit extreme and my morals no longer aligned with this program. So I started my search for something deeper. I stumbled upon a job on Indeed. Working as a Parent Educator, through Children’s Service Society. I would go into the home and teach parents about child development. My job didn’t just end there, I was to assist parents with striving for better, for themselves and their families. My first client was a teen mom, her bf was violent and in jail. Her mother was deported, and she needed guidance. I jumped right in to assist with advocating for her. We went to every doctor’s appointment together and started a plan for when she was to give birth. I was able to be with her in the delivery room.
Her father worked in construction and wasn’t available to arrive in time. From there, we got right to work asking for donations, finding therapists, contacting Dulas, and providing information on adoption. This was my first taste of Community Health work. I was amazed and fulfilled. Since then, I’ve found myself working overtime to provide families with the tools they need to be their best selves. When parents have adequate expectations we can reduce Adverse Childhood Experiences (child abuse) which leads to healthier families and healthier mindsets. My work doesn’t end there, understanding what the community needs is understanding the water waste taking place in Utah. During my research into what my community needs, I found that using the little water we have for lawns is deeply influencing our environment negatively.
If we continue on this way The Great Salt Lake will be depleted and the toxic gas from the arsenic will fill our air and force everyone out. One great way to help this cause is to take advantage of the new turf buy-back program. The state of Utah has implemented an incentive to conserve water. They pay residents and businesses to turn their lawns into Zeros cape or native species that retain water. Other ways you can do your part is to adjust your water schedule to only water during sundown, take shorter showers, and talk to your local church about their lawns and commitment to water conservation.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I have had to overcome many obstacles. Coming from a poor family without the means to pay for college and extracurriculars.
I had to move across the US and live out of my car for a couple of months. Always buying used items and being the first generation. Coming from a predominantly Spanish-speaking household it was hard watching my mom always be brushed off or disrespected due to her accent.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a Community Health Worker, I am most proud of my clients when they can accomplish their goals.
Seeing them interact with their child with curiosity and allowing them to make mistakes without criticism. What sets me apart is my motivation and love for my community.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Utah has many community events where organizations table and offer resources.
I have found through tabling and walking around these events I can partner and learn from them. Reaching out to different organizations through their websites is one of the best ways to network.
Contact Info:
- Website: katerynelora.wixsite.com/artist
- Instagram: @kat.la.artista
Image Credits
Sammy Holder (Supervisor), Children Service Society
