Shawano Area Matthew 25 has named Kayla Bessette as its new executive director.
Bessette will begin her new role Sept. 8. She brings more than 12 years of professional experience in leadership, operations, relationship management, process improvement and problem-solving to the position. While much of her career has bee in the utility industry, she has also been active in local nonprofit and community organizations.
Her community involvement includes leadership roles with the Goodfellows of Clintonville and Marion, the Marion Lions Club and Marion Day Care. Through those roles, she has helped with organizational growth, fundraising and expansion efforts.
Bessette brings a combination of strategic thinking and a hands-on approach to her new position, with an emphasis on building relationships, finding creative solutions and turning ideas into action.
As executive director, Bessette will oversee SAM25’s efforts to serve individuals and families experiencing poverty and homelessness in the Shawano area. The organization operates SAM25’s emergency shelter, which provides seasonal overnight shelter and meals; the year-round SAM25 Resource Center, which offers case management and basic-needs assistance; a free community health and optometry clinic; and Sam’s Closet Thrift Store.
Outside of work, Bessette is a mother of two boys and enjoys DIY projects, remodeling, landscaping, thrifting and other hands-on projects.
More information about SAM25 and its programs is available at www.sam25.org.
