Katie Olson

About Katie Olson

I\'m a mission-driven nonprofit leader and social justice advocate with a passion for building healthier, more equitable communities — especially for women and families. With over six years of experience in housing advocacy and community organizing, I bring a unique blend of strategy, empathy, and lived experience to every initiative I lead.I’ve built coalitions, secured funding, and led teams to real, measurable change. Whether I’m helping a congregation become WISE for mental health, co-designing transitional housing for women and children, or speaking out as someone who has lived the challenges our systems must better serve — I show up with integrity, vision, and heart.Let’s connect if you\'re working toward bold, human-centered change.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Esther - Fox Valley

   Feb 2024 — Present

   Providing both operational and strategic leadership of the organization. Responsibilities include organizing, recruiting, training, and supporting leaders within ESTHER to advance our mission as well as maintaining a network of strong relationships with people within our partner faith communities, persons impacted by the issues we address, and participants in strategic alliances within the wider community. The position works closely with the Finance Committee to plan fundraising for the organization, including applying for grants, serves ex-officio on the Board of Directors and supervises other employees of the organization.

Education

• Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

  Registry Preschool Credential , Early Childhood Education and Teaching

• Education To Go by Appleton Public Library

  Microsoft Excel

• Duolingo

  Spanish

• Ripon College

  Bachelor's degree, History

  2003 — 2007