Kathryn Socha, Director of Asset Building & Violence Recovery Services, misses the energy of physically being with program participants and her team during COVID-19. Although her colleagues have had to transition to working remotely, she is inspired by the commitment of program participants continuing to seek out financial literacy tools and resources. Through Heartland Alliance’s Asset Building programs, Socha sees participants learning and then educating others in order to make positive systemic change in their communities.
How did you get into this work?
Previously, I was a legal aid attorney for 19 years and about 14 of those years were spent working with both immigrant and generally low-income women from the Chicagoland area. I represented them in high conflict divorce cases and order of protection cases. Clients were most focused on their own personal safety and the physical safety of their kids, but financial issues were also at the forefront. Support, maintenance, and division of assets were all financial categories where these women needed guidance and support. I realized quite quickly that there weren’t a lot of resources for my clients to use to analyze their finances and figure out what would actually work for their families. The safety aspect of these cases was always a scary part, but the financial part was also complex, as clients were told over and over by abusive ex-partners that they weren’t entitled to anything, that they didn’t deserve anything, and that they weren’t going to get anything. And that wasn’t true. While looking for resources I came across Heartland Alliance. What really tipped me over the edge was the fact that we, at Heartland Alliance, are making systemic change. That wasn’t going to happen for me in the role I previously held in legal aid working on an individual case basis.
Why is this work important to the community and those we serve?
This work is important because we live in a country with incredible wealth disparity. The difference in both income and assets that black and brown communities have at their disposal compared to white communities is stunning. With my background in law, I can see the patterns and systems that create this cycle of oppression. I would much rather work to be part of the solution, than continue to be part of the problem. We are living through a health crisis right now and it is equally a financial crisis at the same time. We want to ensure that resources don’t only benefit the wealthy during our government’s response to COVID-19. I’m proud to be on this team, working together to combat wealth disparity.
Was there a moment where you knew you were in the right job?
There have been a variety of moments that have reminded me that I am in the right space working on these issues with Heartland Alliance. I have no regrets about the pivot that I made to this work. One of the moments that I realized this was seeing just how passionate our Asset Development coaches are. When their participants do well, they are so enthusiastic and happy for them. They inspire me and champion the work. Another favorite memory was attending one of the graduation ceremonies held for participants who had completed an Asset Building program. That moment was so powerful, because I could see the difference both the program and coaches had made in our participants’ lives.
What is your favorite part of your job?
One of my favorite parts of my job is seeing how people take what they’ve learned in their program and how they multiply it from there. That impact of learning is powerful. During this time, I think about how much I miss working face-to-face with my team. I miss the presence of their enthusiasm, but am inspired how resilient they are in providing virtual resources. I’m eager to learn more and partner with different areas of Heartland Alliance to continue to evolve our virtual outreach.
How can others get involved in your work?
One way to get involved is by attending a community financial literacy workshop or other program. Typically, another way that we involve people with our work is through volunteering. Although no volunteer opportunities are available during this time, you can stay informed by following our social media channels or making a donation to ensure that we can continue to provide financial and economic opportunity for all.
