Salvation Army Presents Making a Difference Community Service Pin to Kacey Hammock
Kacey Hammock is has worked with Columbia's nonprofit community in many capacities. Today the works at Columbia-based Partner for better to assist organizations with funding and other needs.
What do you want people to know about your leading cause/organization? Partner for Better is all about making the world a better place through fun, innovative, and equitable approaches. We believe in the power of play and self-care in this work, and we're dedicated to empowering nonprofits and communities while uplifting each other and having fun along the way.
How would you describe yourself to a new friend? I'm all about creating positive social change while having fun. I firmly believe that creativity and building community are essential ingredients for a happy life.
If you could wish for any positive change for the world, what would it be? My wish is for a world where play, rest, and time with community are valued as highly as productivity. Oh, and where unrestricted grant funds are plentiful!
What is something you would like people to know about you? From the outside, it probably looks like I work 24/7, but I prioritize rest and play in my life. I love taking time to create art and be in nature.
If you could get local, state, or federal government to enact any law, program, or whatever, what would it be? I'd champion legislation that provides affordable, accessible mental health support.
What is something fun on your bucket list that you want to make sure you do? I love to travel and be outside, and I want to hike to Machu Picchu.
What is the problem facing our community today that you care most about? I'm most passionate about addressing burnout, stress, and under-compensation in our community. Fun and rest should be accessible to everyone, and I'm committed to finding creative solutions to combat these issues.
What are you good at that might surprise people? I'm a ceramicist! I have most of an art degree.. but that's a story for another day.
What is something special/unique about a local nonprofit about which you care most? I'm so excited about the work we're about to do with The Do Good Collective. I think it's going to make a huge difference for so many nonprofits and the communities they serve. It will provide free classes, networking, and grants for nonprofits.
What kind of kid were you? Creative! I was always dreaming up a new project or making a creation. Some were more successful than others and it really taught me the importance of failure in growth.