Kathleen Cassidy
Why PCH? Why were you interested in joining the PCH Board and working for affordable housing in Princeton?
I’m a long-term advocate of affordable housing both professionally and personally. My career was at the NJ Department of Human Services. After I retired I worked as a consultant in developing a system to address and end homelessness in Mercer County. Both of these efforts depended on an increased stock of affordable housing. I joined to Board of PCH in the Spring of 2022. I wanted to work on the issue of affordable housing in my own community.
What is your professional background?
I have a Master’s in Social Work and primarily worked in policy and program development areas. My career was in the State government serving in various positions in the Department of Human Services. My primary work was in areas of mental health, children’s services and supportive housing. After I retired from State government I worked as a consultant with disabilities and homeless issues. The need for affordable housing has been a theme in much of my professional life.
How long have you been in the Princeton area and why did you come to this community?
I moved to Princeton in 1979 when I began my career in State government. I wanted to live in a community with a diverse population both racially and economically. I have a strong commitment to keeping the community a diverse one and see affordable housing as a way to achieve that goal.
What other volunteer activities do you participate in?
I am very active in immigration issues and currently am part of the Leadership team for Solidaridad Central NJ which is a grassroots organization that assists undocumented immigrants with asylum applications. I am also active in the Princeton Community Democratic Organization and have been part of the Executive Committee. I am a social justice advocate and this keeps me busy.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I am a hiker and a kayaker and also an avid consumer of the arts, particularly theatre and dance. Reading and taking educational courses are an important part of my retirement.