Our Board Spotlight: Kate Essenberg

Kate Essenberg considers it a privilege to have called Northern Michigan home for most of her life. She has held a variety of roles professionally, all of which have provided her with the opportunity to work with families and children. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education from Central Michigan University and is a National Alliance Certified Trainer of “Bringing the Protective Factors Framework to Life in Your Work.” Kate currently serves as Coordinator for Central Lake Early Opportunities (CLEO), a network of partners that offer programs and resources for children ages 0-8 and their families in the community of Central Lake.

Kate shares "As a newish empty nester, my partner and I have instituted long evening walks which have become a highlight of my days. I also cherish visits with my kids and enjoy listening to podcasts, reading memoirs, running, and going on hikes with friends."

Fun fact about Kate: "I love naps! The pace of life means that most of my naps are of the power variety and I’m pretty proud of the fact I can fall asleep in seconds and wake up, ready for the next part of my day, in about 15 minutes. "

Kate shares this Protective Factor Feature:

The Strengthening Families Framework, which highlights 5 Protective Factors that support optimal child development and thriving families, offers guidance for anyone seeking to build a strong support system. A few years ago, not long after the death of a family member, I read a piece written by someone at the Children’s Trust Fund Alliance titled something like, “The Protective Factors Are for Everyone.” The author shared her experience of walking alongside her parents as they were dying and how each of the Protective Factors supported her. Right away I thought, “I could have written that!” I considered how each protective factor supported me during that season:

Social and Emotional Competence: I leaned into resources that helped me identify and navigate how I was experiencing a range of emotions centered around grief.

Concrete Support: There were community resources that provided needed services.

Knowledge: I relied on folks with expertise that I do not possess to offer guidance.

Social Connections: Family and friends provided comfort and many hours of generous listening as I verbally processed.

Resilience: I learned new things about myself and what helps me navigate stress and grief.

For families with children or expecting a baby, there are many resources in this area to support you as you build your own protective factors! If you are in the Central Lake area, please check out what is offered through Central Lake Early Opportunities. The C.A.P.E. Council and Great Start Collaborative and Family Coalition offer many opportunities throughout the area.

We are grateful Kate is in our community and a CAPE board member!