Kathy Greene

In 1987, when Kathy started working as a paraprofessional at the Little White School House in Mystic, she had never worked with anyone with a disability. She quickly realized how much passion she had for the work, and in 1992, recognizing the need for an inclusive place for individuals of varying ability, Kathy founded The Light House with a goal of providing community based functional academics for students with disabilities. Kathy believed that it was important to integrate students directly into the community through vocational training, social programming, and regular outings. The program started out in a rented church space with only two employees. Between 1992 and 2017, she expanded The Light House to three campuses that now serve over 100 individuals from all over Southeastern Connecticut and integrate the community in every aspect of learning.

Since leaving The Light House, Kathy has continued on her mission of creating a more diverse community. She founded the Girl Power Collaborative, a fundraiser for non-profit agencies dedicated to advancing women’s rights in our community. She also works closely with Horses Healing Humans, assisting them with finding funding for Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy for people with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.

Kathy is a leading advocate for inclusivity in Southeastern Connecticut and has spent her life creating opportunities and advocating for individuals regardless of their perceived ability. Her work has undoubtedly changed countless lives for the better, and has made our community a better place to live and work in.