A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Kristen Baker

KristenBakerKristen Baker understands the need to be needed, to have that feeling of knowing that those in need have someone there for them. As a member of the Boys and Girl's Club along with several other roles within the club, Baker's life mission is to be there for the kids.

“I always want kids to feel the need to be needed,” says Baker. “I want them to have a safe place and for them to know that this club is a safe place, free from ridicule and judgment.”

Baker has multiple roles within the club. She works with the Learning Center, letting children have what is called a “homework room” which features an area for children to do their homework as well as bookshelves full of books to read.

“We do something that we call the 'power hour',” says Baker. “Students receive points for being in the room and participating in homework and activities, with the top kids earning a pizza party at the end.”

It's these extra activities that allow Baker time to interact and get to know each child on a personal level that teachers and sometimes even guardians do not.

“I want kids to look up to me, I want to be a role model,” says Baker. “My goal is to be there for the kids and I'm always looking to be involved with kids and see them grow, there's no better feeling then seeing them grow.”

Along with the Learning Center, Baker spends time working with the Torch Club, a community service group for young children, and through this enjoys working as a workshop coordinator and planning events for kids and the community.

“Some of the workshops I've been able to coordinate are self esteem programs, character and leadership programs and anti bullying programs as well. I enjoy taking on multiple roles that lets me and the kids interact the community,” says Baker.

Baker's passion for kids and the community comes from having two children of her own and the love and attention they often take from her.

“My own children are the inspirations to be a role model to these kids, they inspire me to give back to kids who don't have guardians, who don't have anyone to care for them,” says Baker.

Baker has mentioned that through the Boys and Girl's Club, she as become attached to various kids and families who have come to the club and through them, have formed bonds that will remain for a lifetime.

“I'm happiest when I'm giving back,” says Baker. “The feeling I get when I spend time with my own children, and the way I seem them look up to me, that's the passionate feeling I get when I see these kids smile and see them succeed.”