As a Program Coordinator in the Shelby County government's Division of Community Services, Kathryn Winsley is on the frontlines of addressing complex, interconnected challenges in the Memphis area. Her work may look different from her previous role as a mental health professional, but the through-line is clear: Kathryn is deeply committed to uplifting her community and driving systemic change.

"I still see myself doing essential public health-oriented work - just in a different capacity," Kathryn explains. "The connections between mental health, education, and broader community well-being are profound, and addressing those challenges requires a holistic, community-based approach."

Kathryn's path to her current role was not a straight line. After starting out in mental health services, the pandemic prompted her to explore new opportunities. That's when she applied to the Leaders of Color program, which she credits with sparking her deeper dive into political work, advocacy, and eventually, government jobs.

"It just takes you on the course of things," Kathryn says. "The next thing I know, I was working campaigns, and the next thing I know, I'm applying to government jobs. It's just like, 'Oh, I didn't plan for this.' I'm still doing that essential work - it just looks different now."

In her current role, Kathryn focuses on connecting residents to the services and resources they need, with a particular emphasis on meeting basic requirements like housing, food, transportation, and mental health support. The idea is that by addressing those fundamental needs, individuals will be better equipped to show up as their best selves, whether in the classroom, the workplace, or their family life.

"It's about taking some of the nurturing responsibilities off the shoulders of teachers and schools, and instead creating a true 'village' approach to supporting children and families," Kathryn explains. "This could involve partnering with parks departments to offer after-school programming, or tapping into retired teachers in the community to provide tutoring."

Kathryn's personal background in rural Mississippi has deeply shaped her approach. Growing up in a tight-knit Black community where her grandparents were actively engaged in voter registration, advocacy, and education, Kathryn saw firsthand the power of a "village mentality" - where everyone looks out for one another, especially for young people.

"I saw how a broader support system can make all the difference, even when your own parents are working long hours," Kathryn reflects. "That experience has informed my belief that government and community services should be about facilitating those connections and uplifting the inherent strengths within neighborhoods."

A key part of that process has been centering the voices of young people. Through her work with the mayor's transition team, Kathryn has collaborated with the Shelby County Youth Council and Memphis Youth Council to better understand their needs and priorities.

"Rather than assuming we know best, we're trying to empower youth to identify their own needs and solutions," Kathryn says. "Their recommendations - things like better transportation options, more school and college preparation resources, and internship opportunities - have been invaluable."

Looking ahead, Kathryn's overarching hope is to keep chipping away at these interconnected challenges, shifting mindsets and systems to better serve the needs of individuals and families. Whether it's leveraging resources for mental health rehabilitation or partnering with the parks department to provide after-school enrichment, Kathryn is committed to a collaborative, holistic approach.

"Ultimately, it's about recognizing that education, healthcare, and community well-being are all deeply interconnected," Kathryn explains. "We have to be willing to listen to the people most impacted by these systemic issues and partner with them as problem-solvers. That's the only way we'll create meaningful, lasting change."