Katka is the beating heart of C4C’s Robin Hood program and the solid rock of our Back Office! For her no spreadsheet or logistical challenge is too big…
“What I appreciate most about Katka is her incredible inner strength, as well as her ability to maintain perspective, humanity, and empathy in all circumstances. I admire her perseverance and attention to detail. She is proof to me that with precision and a big heart, even the greatest challenges can be managed,” says Jana Koláříková, Program Director of the HelpMate project and Katka’s colleague.
How did you actually get to Chance 4 Children, and what was the main impulse that made you decide to join the team?
Throughout my life, I’ve tried various jobs, but deep in my heart I’ve always had the desire to be useful and help others – especially those who need it most, children. When I came across the C4C job posting, I immediately felt that this was exactly what I had always wished for. It was a clear impulse for me – to connect my work with something that has real meaning.
Do you remember your first days in the organization? Did anything about how the nonprofit sector works surprise you?
I remember my first days very fondly. What surprised me most was the pleasant environment full of calm energy, understanding, and the friendly approach of my colleagues.
Thanks to my experience at the Office of the Government of the Czech Republic, specifically within the Council for Roma Affairs, I already had an idea of how the public-benefit sector works. Still, I was pleasantly surprised by the high level of dedication, humanity, and the ability to respond to current needs even with limited resources in the nonprofit sector.
Our work is divided between the dynamic Robin Hood program and precise administrative tasks. How do you manage to switch between these two worlds?
I fell in love with the Robin Hood program right away. The greatest reward for me is the joy of the children – their smiles and gratitude remind me why this work matters. At the same time, I also enjoy office work, where I find fulfillment in order, clarity, and seeing things through to completion.
How would you describe the Robin Hood program to someone hearing about it for the first time? What is its greatest added value for you?
I see the Robin Hood program as concrete and highly practical help that brings certainty and stability to children’s homes when it comes to meeting children’s needs – from clothing to other essential equipment.
At the same time, we also help seniors, people with disabilities, and families in need. In difficult moments, such as floods, we have been able to respond quickly and deliver blankets, furniture, and cleaning supplies to affected areas where people needed them most.
For me, the greatest added value is the trust with which people turn to C4C, and the assurance of fast and meaningful help.
The Robin Hood program is naturally complemented by other programs focused on education and the development of children and young people. The whole system connects immediate assistance with long-term support, giving children a chance for a better future, greater confidence, and direction.
People in administration are often “invisible heroes.” Where do you see the greatest meaning in your work when you are preparing contracts or payroll?
In administration, you often stay in the background, but I see great meaning in it. Through my work, I’ve met many people across all programs, and I truly appreciate their energy, dedication, and the love they put into their work. I have very good relationships with them, and they know I’m always available whenever they need me.
This “invisible” work holds everything together and allows others to do fieldwork without complications. That’s what gives it the greatest meaning for me.
Working in a helping organization can be emotionally intense. What helps you maintain perspective and a good mood on challenging days?
Life experience has taught me that not much can shake me. I believe that unless it’s a matter of life and death, everything can be solved – and on top of that, I have a great team around me.
I don’t see my job as just “going to work,” but as a natural part of my life. That also helps me keep perspective.
How do your personal values or life experiences influence the way you approach your work at C4C?
I have always believed in honesty, responsibility, and that even small things can have a big impact when done with care and heart.
From my own experience, I know how important guidance, support, and a sense of security are for children so they can find their direction in life. That influences my work – I strive to be consistent, reliable, and to do my part in a way that others can build on without worry.
C4C is not just a job for me, but a place where my values naturally connect with what I do every day.
Is there something you’ve learned about yourself or about people around you thanks to C4C?
Through C4C, I’ve become even more aware of how important cooperation, trust, and simple human kindness are. I’ve also learned to better recognize how much strength people can have even in difficult situations, and how much even seemingly “small” support can help. About people around me, I’ve learned that when goodwill comes together, it can achieve truly great things.
When you close your laptop and finish work, what helps you clear your mind the most? Do you have a favorite ritual?
The best way for me to clear my mind is through movement or spending time with my family. I exercise, go for walks in nature, or simply enjoy time together at home. My sons play classical pieces on the piano and violin, which I find very calming and helps me completely switch off and pause for a moment. We also enjoy attending cultural events or cooking good meals together. These simple moments help me recharge my energy.
If you could make one wish for C4C for the future, what would it be?
That the support continues to grow and reaches even more children and families who need it – and that no one is left without help when they truly need it.
What is the greatest reward this work brings you?
The knowledge that our help truly works and reaches those who need it. And above all, the feeling that what I do has real meaning.
