After 31 years of dedicated service, we will bid farewell to Kathy DeYoung, longtime Director of Gruenert Center. Kathy came to DPD as a Sub back in April of 1984. She was quickly hired as a part-time staff member for Gruenert Center in July of that same year. Kathy worked her way up the ranks, becoming Director of the Center in November, 1988. It is difficult to put into words the impact that Kathy has had on the lives of so many. When you meet Kathy, it is easy to see the love she has for all the clients she works with at Gruenert Center, but this is also true for her staff. Kathy has had a great team at Gruenert Center over her many years there. Kathy has always been about the DPD Family and keeping the staff involved in fun activities. She is the biggest cheerleader you will meet!


Kathy was recognized for her excellence and dedication as DPD’s 2007 Employee of the Year, an honor which she truly deserved. When you walk into the Gruenert Center, Kathy is always there to welcome you. Her laugh is unmistakable and her love for the people of Gruenert Center, and all in the DPD, is immeasurable. Beyond Gruenert, Kathy and her husband Rick have been volunteers in DPD’s People Need Friends program for many years, inviting Pam, a resident at DPD, into their family’s life. They have become Pam’s family; it is a beautiful bond between them. I think anyone who knows Kathy can reflect on their own special bond with her and all she has done over three decades.

We are all going to miss Kathy at the Gruenert Center, but we know she will always be a part of the DPD Family!