during my darkest times,

some career twists and turns, Webster feels that working with the Red Cross is a perfect place to use her skills. Tom Tezel, the regional disaster officer for the Red Cross and Webster’s boss, couldn’t agree more. He describes her as a leader who makes good things happen. “Katie is more than just a great worker, she is an amazing person, and her depth of character and inspirational spirit make her a joy to be around.” In their work, the disaster response team partners with the community to provide services helping disaster survivors to find a new normal. Although Webster admits that she wishes she could help fix every problem, that just isn’t possible, however as she explains, “There isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t have the opportunity to touch someone’s life in a positive way.” Co-worker Jessica Kulzer says, “Katie gives her all at work, happily doing whatever is needed to help clients,” yet she also does a fantastic job of balancing family life, “always keeping her family as top priority.”

As Webster talks about the challenges of balancing her various roles, she states, “My faith is the most important part of my life, and it impacts everything I do.” Keeping her priorities of faith and family foremost, Webster is able to prioritize her involvement in other parts of the community as well. Beyond work and family, Webster is very involved as Awana Cubbies director for the three- and fouryear-old program at Bethel Church in Fargo. She is also a member of the West Fargo VFW and serves in the 426th Signal Company Family Readiness Group that promotes family events for military families such as picnics and holiday parties; and provides baby baskets for families with new little ones, and care packages for families of deployed soldiers. Co-workers, neighbors and friends who know Webster speak of the way she brings joy and fun into every endeavor. Delia Williams, director of Children’s Ministry at Bethel Church considers her “a tremendous asset to our team. She makes our Awana parents and children alike feel welcome and loved.”

Though Webster has faced many challenges throughout her life, she has used those experiences to shape her perspective. “During my darkest times, I was given opportunities from people who had faith in me. Sharing that same faith and support with others now is my way of paying it forward.”

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO LEARN MORE about supporting the Red Cross, the Dakotas Region has volunteer opportunities across all lines of service, ranging from disaster action teams to office support to community preparedness presenters. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, go to redcross.org/volunteer or call the local Red Cross chapter at 701-364-1800