Kathy's House

We're hiring! Our Manager of Volunteer Services is responsible for all aspects of Kathy’s House Volunteers and a key team member of the Guest Services team. Kathy's House offers competitive pay of $25/hour, Generous Medical, Dental, and Vision Plan, Paid Time Off, an EAP program, and a Simple IRA plan (up to 3% match). #hiring #mke #volunteers

A heartfelt thank you to this dedicated group from Medical College of Wisconsin for taking the time to prepare a meal for our guests at Kathy’s House. ? For families facing medical crises, a warm, homemade meal offers more than just nourishment—it provides comfort, connection, and a reminder that they’re not alone. Acts of kindness like this truly embody our mission of hospitality and healing. ? We are so grateful for the ongoing support from organizations like MCW, whose generosity helps make Kathy’s House a home away from home for those in need.

Since January 16th, our home has been filled with beautiful music, thanks to Kris Melton and her husband Michael. Michael is currently receiving cancer treatment at Froedtert Hospital, and Kris, a talented musician with decades of experience playing in church, brought her music to our hospital guest house. The grand piano here has become a source of peace for Kris during their stay. "It relaxes me," she shares, playing whenever she can, even during the tough times. Though she paused her music while Michael was inpatient, she resumed as soon as he was discharged, bringing a sense of calm to their time here. Kris and Michael have spent much of their time in their room, with Michael being highly immunocompromised after his bone marrow transplant. Aside from playing the piano and occasional trips to the fitness room for some recumbent bike time, they are focusing on his health and safety. Through it all, Kris and Michael are deeply grateful for the support and comfort Kathy’s House provides. "What else would we do?" says Kris. "It’s over a two-hour drive to go home. I couldn’t do it every day." Her heartfelt words remind us of the deep importance of our home in allowing families to face the toughest challenges together.

Our staff honored International Women’s Day by making meaningful commitments to advance gender equity—not just in words, but through action. From fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace to ensuring compassionate care for all our guests, we recognize that equity is more than a goal—it’s a responsibility. Today and every day, we stand with women in our community and beyond, working toward a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Here’s to the incredible women of Kathy’s House—our staff, guests, caregivers, and supporters—who inspire us with their strength, resilience, and kindness. Together, we can create lasting change. #IWD2025 #AccelerateAction

Congratulations to President & CEO Kim Lamansky on her first anniversary with Kathy’s House!????Over the past year, Kim’s leadership and vision have made a lasting impact on the team. Everyone at Kathy’s House is grateful for the direction that Kim has provided, and we're excited for the continued success and growth in the years to come. Here's to many more milestones ahead!

In fifty-some years together, Lori Goudreau has never seen her husband Larry without his beard. During Larry’s battle with cancer, however, that changed. Larry came to Milwaukee on December 13 for a bone marrow transplant, and Lori was right there with him, checking into Kathy’s House, footsteps from the hospital. Larry stayed in the hospital until January 3rd?and then joined Lori in our “home away from home” while continuing to receive outpatient treatment. “If it wasn’t for Kathy’s House being our home away from home, it’d be much more difficult,” Lori said. She doesn’t know what she would do without the other families to connect with. “Some will be lifelong friends.” Lifelong friendship: an unexpected but always welcome side effect of a stay at Kathy’s House.

Please join us in welcoming our new intern, Caroline! Caroline is studying human social services at Wisconsin Lutheran College with an expected graduation date in the fall of 2025. We look forward to teaching her the ins and outs of our operation. If you find yourself at Kathy’s House with Caroline, please make sure to say hello!

Caroline Pachello is the type of guest who is almost unheard of at Kathy’s House: a local. She and her husband just sold their house in Wales, Wisconsin with plans to move to Colorado to be closer to family support. In the midst of moving, however, Caroline, learned she would need additional treatment at Froedtert Hospital. Fortunately, Kathy’s House has been able to provide them with safe and affordable lodging. “Because I’m immunocompromised, I needed a safe place to stay,” Caroline says. “Kathy’s House is very clean, which is important to me. I’m a microbiologist, so I’m pretty critical of that stuff. It’s very clean, and it feels safe.” Caroline is working hard to take care of herself; her health is her priority. She’s made frequent use of the fitness room. “It’s really important to get your steps in,” she says. She’s often in the kitchen as well, preparing nutritious meals during her stay. “I love the kitchen,” she says. “You have everything you need here. It makes you feel like you’re at home.”

National Caregivers Day, a time to recognize and honor caregivers and their critical contributions to our families, communities, and healthcare system. Of the 1,366 guests we served last year, approximately half were caregivers. We honor their work and commit to ongoing support of caregivers, as the heart of our mission. Thank you, caregivers! #NationalCaregiversDay

Aren’t our volunteers the best? This small group is one of several that have recently spent time at Kathy’s House for a refresher on their role at the welcome desk. Director of Volunteer Services Marie has spent time ensuring that everyone is on the same page and understands our policies and procedures. But we are fortunate that everyone on our team shares a commitment to putting our guests first. Thank you, volunteers!