OSKALOOSA – Kim Stutting, originally from Wisconsin and a William Penn University graduate, has been hired as Mahaska County YMCA’s Youth Coordinator. Under the direction of Kathy Chamra, YMCA Child Care Director, the position has been vacant for some time but Chamra said the ideal candidate has now been hired.
“I am excited for Kim and the Y,” said Chamra. “She brings a wealth of experience working with youth and has a host of new ideas and activities which will be implemented in not only the after school program but summer camp as well.”
Stutting received her undergraduate degree from Central College and has a degree in art and sociology as well as a master’s degree in Business Leadership. She and her husband, who is also a WPU grad, moved back to Okaloosa last summer. They have two children.
Stutting said she has a passion for working with children, helping them learn and grow, and has a long history of working with children in a variety of activities including Girl Scouts, Lego League, sports teams, cheerleading, and activities through her church.
“I enjoy planning activities that artfully intertwine learning and exciting engagement,” said Stutting, “and believe in helping children learn critical and creative thinking skills. I want to provide opportunities for them to develop their talents and abilities, give them opportunities to learn proper problem-solving skills while working as a team. It helps them as kids, it helps them as they grow and mature. They find it very rewarding when they successfully conquer challenges as a team. It’s fun learning with life-long applications.”
Stutting said she will be revamping the after school program for the 2016-17 school year and is excited to continue working with the school district and the Y’s community partners. She says she will be bringing “more fun into learning.” But for the moment, with school coming to a close, her focus is on the Y’s summer camp.
“I attended camp for 13 years and was a counselor after that,” said Stutting. “I want to make sure our campers personally experience what I experienced. I want them to create those lifelong memories while forming bonds with cabin groups with is so much a part of the camp experience.”
“Discovery” is a series of week-long camps throughout the summer beginning May 23. Each week’s theme is different. Some other community partners will be participating this year including Robotics Club and Master Gardeners. Stutting encourages any parent interested in this summer’s camps to call the Y (641.673.8411) for specific details. Summer camp information is also available on the Y’s web site (www.MahaskaYMCA.org).
