KRISTIN HAMMER | 20 Under 40
Written and compiled by KELLY POTTER and LAUREN JURGENSEN | Photos by JOHN BURNS
Kristin is the community engagement coordinator for the YWCA Northeast Kansas. Her desire to help others through empowerment led her to a career in social work, and continues to guide her as a spouse, parent, community member and nonprofit advocate.
She hopes to increase the visibility of the YWCA and strengthen the organization’s stance as an advocate for survivors, families and women.
Kristin is a member of Topeka Voter Collaborative, the League of Women Voters of Topeka and Shawnee County and the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence. Kristin volunteers at Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Catholic Parish, Kansas Interfaith Action and Moms Demand Action.
What does a day in the life look like for you?
Every day is different! YWCA Northeast Kansas has so many programs, services and events throughout the year that I joke that we have “busy seasons” and “busier seasons.” I’m not at my desk much. You’re more likely to see me at the library for a meeting, stopping by a community event in the evening or tabling at a festival on a Saturday afternoon.
What characteristic do you most admire in others?
I admire women who move forward unapologetically, who don’t wait for permission to accomplish their goals and who do the work that needs to be done.
What makes you unique?
My style of social work. I’ve never been a traditional practitioner, but I view the broader work of community building through a social work lens. I see our challenges through a strengths-based and empowering framework.
