Katelynn Aufderhar is an invaluable member of our team working as the Community Connector for the Adult Advocacy program in connection with the Winona Community HUB. A Winona native, Katelynn pursued Intercultural Studies and Social Justice in college, volunteering with organizations assisting unhoused and refugee communities in Minneapolis.

Katelynn’s journey with us began when she returned to Winona amidst the pandemic in 2020. She started as an overnight shelter advocate at the Winona Warming Center in October 2020, eventually moving through several positions within the Housing program. Her experience as a WCDC Advocate, WCWC Coordinator, and finally WCDC Coordinator provided her with a unique understanding of the work that community health workers do, inspiring her to apply for her current position with Catholic Charities.

“I enjoy working at an organization full of people and programs willing to step up and go the extra mile to help support our community,” Katelynn says.

In her role as the Community Connector, Katelynn dedicates herself to providing case management and resource navigation for her clients, helping them improve their overall health outcomes. Her day-to-day tasks vary, from assisting clients in finding housing to teaching them how to manage chronic illnesses, but her ultimate goal is always the same: empowering her clients with the tools and resources they need to achieve their goals.

When Katelynn is not working to improve the lives of others, she enjoys a variety of hobbies, including hiking, crocheting, reading, attending concerts, traveling, and painting with friends. Her passion for helping others and commitment to creating a positive impact in her community make Katelynn a truly exceptional member of our team, and we are proud to have her on board.

Describe Your Job in 3 Words:

Empathy
Connection
Advocacy

Favorites:

Color: Dark green
Pizza Toppings: Chicken and Spinach
Cats or Dogs? I refuse to choose! I grew up with my families dog and currently have my own cat, so I feel like I’m betraying one of them if I make a choice.
Quote: “The love that you withhold is the pain that you carry.”- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Katelynn’s “happy place”

Anywhere with good hiking trails and trees where I can set up my hammock and enjoy nature.

Fun Fact

I have been to 14 different countries.