KENTON, Ohio (WLIO) — A 2026 Lee Volunteer Award winner is making a lasting impact in her community by mentoring youth and supporting residents in need.
Kathy Hilty has spent the past decade giving back through her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters, helping guide children as they navigate their path into adulthood.
“I always say, Pay it forward. Pay anything forward. A smile, anything pay it forward.,” says Kathy Hilty, 2026 Lee Volunteer Award Winner.
Hilty’s journey into mentorship began about 10 years ago after hearing a presentation at her church, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Kenton, about the need for volunteers.
“One day, a representative came in from the county, and she gave her spiel about Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and the great need for big sisters. And I was 60 at the time, and I thought, gosh, that's something I think I would really, really like to do. And I inquired, and she snatched me right up and got a match for me, and to this day, we're still friends. We're friends that's been 10 years ago,” adds Hilty.
Since then, Hilty has served as a “big sister” to five children, building lasting relationships and offering guidance through life’s challenges.
One of those mentees, Payton Stalk, said Hilty has had a meaningful influence on her life.
“Appreciate everything. Like, stuff isn't too big of a deal. I used to take things to heart a lot, and she's like, it's not that big of a deal. You gotta let it go. So learn to let it go. A lot of things go. She's like a second grandma to me. She's been there for me a lot,” says Payton Stalk, Hilty’s little sister for around 6 years.
Hilty said each child she mentors brings unique experiences and needs, requiring patience and understanding.
“Each child is unique in their own way, and they have their own feelings, their own things that have to be dealt with the way they their own special need, their own special problem, their own personality. So, you have to get to their level and figure out where are you going, to where you going to meet them at, what are you going to do. I get a lot of satisfaction out of it, because I just enjoy it. I love it. I love being around the kids,” says Hilty.
In addition to mentoring, Hilty serves the Kenton community by providing meals and assisting elderly residents with daily tasks.
Madison Richards of Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Central Ohio said Hilty’s dedication stands out.
“She's so selfless. She puts her whole heart into everything she does. She's very consistent in what she does. She's been with our organization for well over 10 years, and she's meant to work five littles, three of which are current,” says Madison Richards, Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Central Ohio.
Hilty said her commitment to service stems from her upbringing.
“It just makes me feel good. I think it's the right thing to do. I think I was raised that way. My mom and dad pretty, pretty tough on us. And we were taught to give. We didn't have a whole lot, so we shared, we gave a lot away, we did what we could,” says Hilty
Hilty is one of the 2026 Lee Volunteer Award winners recognized for her ongoing contributions to the community.
