Kathy Nugent had a knack for making children smile and feel cared for. As a long-time staff member of Hephzibah’s After School Care Program, Kathy was well-known throughout Oak Park as a nurturing and thoughtful caregiver for thousands of children spanning four decades. Everywhere Kathy went, she was met by familiar faces who knew her from her years of caring for local kids. However, it was on-site at Oak Park’s local elementary schools under her careful watch where the true magic happened.
Kathy was more than a childcare provider—she was a mentor, a guide, a teacher and a friend to the children she encountered through Hephzibah. She provided bandages for scrapes, helped children do their homework, gave hugs when feelings were hurt and handed out snacks when kids were hungry. Most importantly, Kathy was always there—ever-present and comforting. Here at Hephzibah, we are now finding comfort in the show of love and memories in her honor after her passing by our community.
Join us for another opportunity to honor Kathy Nugent and her legacy at our Day Care Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, September 21st from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon at Nineteenth Century Club in Oak Park. At the event, in addition to celebrating the longevity of our Day Care Program, we will acknowledge the many contributions of Kathy and the work she did caring for local children.
Please consider a gift to the Kathy Nugent Memorial Fund in her memory. All gifts will be applied to support the after-school and summer camp program so that the work Kathy whole-heartedly supported can continue to offer affordable child care in our community.
