Heritage Club Spotlight - Kathy Catanho
Kathy Catanho is no stranger to the YMCA of the East Bay or Camp Loma Mar. In fact, she first stepped foot at Camp Loma Mar as a camper in 1963. As a camper, she joined the Leaders in Training and Counselors in Training programs, ending four years as a camper in 1967. That didn’t end there! She became a permanent fixture as a staff member for another four years until 1972. She served in a variety of roles, including Archery Instructor and Campfire Coordinator under the leadership of then former Camp Director, Bud Sheble.
During this time Kathy also worked as a Loma Mar staff member with the CA School for the Deaf camp program and the Recreational Center for the Handicapped camp program for several years. She was generally known by her nickname “Sport” throughout these years.
After a stint as Program Director at the Eden Area YMCA, Kathy later came back to serve as the Camp Director from 1979-1982. “Camp Loma Mar has a special place in my heart. I spent a lot of my life at Camp. I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time there, as a camper, staffer, and Camp Director. A lot of memories were made that I will always cherish,” said Ms. Catanho.
After her time at Camp Loma Mar, Kathy went into the concessions business. “It was sort of like running a camp but we didn’t spend the night! My boss offered me an opportunity to become a partner in 1989 and I jumped at it. Our Catering division provided the food service for CA YMCA Youth & Government training conferences at Camp Roberts for 16 years,” said Ms. Catanho. Kathy, now focuses her time as a real estate investor.
Thanks to Kathy’s generosity, she’s funded a cabin renovation and has named Camp Loma Mar in her Will/Trust, joining the Heritage Club since the late 70s when Fred Stickney was President/CEO. “We’re so grateful to Kathy for leaving a legacy to Camp Loma Mar, a special place where she’s made countless friends and memories,” said Manny Nungaray, Chief Development Officer.
Interested in becoming a Heritage Club member or have made plans to include YMCA of the East Bay or Camp Loma Mar in your Will/Trust? Let us know!