“It comes down to building strong people!”  That is how Sara Koch describes her role as Community Center Director at the Dunham Recreation Center Complex . Credit to Sara who knew a long time ago that she wanted a career that focused on teaching kids, and she remains energized in that commitment today.

 

Traditional education and outdoor adventure

Sara started her career with kids in 1999 as a lifeguard with Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC). She pursued a traditional teaching role and earned a degree in early childhood education, but then shifted gears when a friend asked her to work for Price Hill Recreation Center in the after-school program. That was a turning point for Sara who loved how the program combined outdoor adventure with a traditional teaching experience. Now she says, ”I can’t imagine doing anything else”

A kid can be a kid

Sara raves about the caring nature of her home at Dunham. The staff and leadership here are really committed to make a difference in the lives of the students. The kids are from all social and economic backgrounds and some of them have had some very difficult childhood experiences. Dunham is dedicated to giving EVERY kid an experience and a sense of childhood that frankly, some of them would not otherwise have.

On the right track

Mahatma Gandhi once said,“Be the change that you wish to see in the world”. While this might be easier said than done, Sara and her team at Dunham are on the right track to help their kids learn how to help themselves become positive influences in our community. And for that, we thank you!

 

Just for fun:

Q: What is your favorite restaurant in Cincinnati?
A: Prima Vista

Q: How long have you lived or worked in Cincinnati?
A: All my life. When I became a lifeguard, I traveled all over the city to work which gave me a broader perspective of our city’s great diversity, which I love!

Q: Who is the most interesting person you have met here in your community?
A: Tammy Riddle – without her influence I do not know if I would be doing this right now.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?  And why?
A: I’d go on a safari in Africa. When I was a kid, my dad and I would go to the zoo. It was our thing! This has led me to want to explore and connect with animals in their natural habitats.

Q: What is your favorite movie OR what is the first movie?
A: Forrest Gump

Q: What advice would you give a crowd of people?
A:  The choices you make every day define you. Choose wisely.

Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Cincinnati?
A: Sawyer point because that is where it all started for me as a lifeguard when I was 16.

Q: What is something on your bucket list?
A: To be in a higher level position where I can have greater impact. I know she is a fictitious character, but think of Leslie Knope (Amy Pohler) on Parks and Recreation. An over-achiever, Knope believes the government should serve the people.

Q: What is your favorite music/ 3 bands you would like to see (dead or alive)?
A: Growing up, my mom listened to sounds of the 70’s! So, Bob Segar, Steve Miller, Queen, Phil Collins

Q: Choosing anyone alive or not: with whom would you love to have lunch?  Why?
A: My grandpa’s parents because they owned a farm that had a hunting lodge once owned by William Henry Harrison. I’d love to hear more about that.

Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
A: Cozy, Open, Family