Supporter Spotlight
– October 18 2024
Leaving a legacy of love: Kat’s story
Kat Corbett’s life was steeped in kindness. As a young woman, Kat founded an elementary school in Toronto, Canada—dedicating her time and career to shaping young minds with the academic and life knowledge children need to lead meaningful, successful lives.
There, she married a fellow teacher, who shared a passion for educating and encouraging children to reach their full potential. The young couple moved to Orlando, Florida, where, in 1971, they opened the only racially integrated private school in Central Florida. With a warm, open environment that celebrated children’s unique perspectives and talents, the school welcomed everyone.
After 25 years as an educator, Kat transitioned into a second career—still focused on inspiring children—as a copy editor in elementary textbook publishing. She loved writing short stories and poems for young readers and eventually published her own children’s book series, DanceFutures.
A staunch believer in the power of compassion, Kat supported many causes, donating her time and resources regularly to many nonprofits, including SOS Children’s Villages.
“She was a true philanthropist in her generosity,” Hillary Corbett, Kat’s daughter, said. “She would sometimes mention to me one organization or another, but I was touched to find that her contacts at these organizations considered her a true friend, not just a donor.”
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Kat passed away in May 2023 at the age of 83, but her legacy of love and selflessness lives on in the children she educated and inspired.
“She is a great example—not only for me—but for the generations of young people whose lives she touched,” Hillary said.
In addition to her past students and dedicated readers, Kat is changing the lives of children worldwide. In her will, she left a compassionate gift to SOS Children’s Villages.
This generous act of love ensures children in need have a safe home, loving family and all the resources they need to thrive—including access to a quality education.
“My mother never met a stranger and would always offer a cup of coffee to anyone who came by the house,” Hillary said. “Kindness and a willingness to help—even if it was at the expense of having time for herself—were two of her defining characteristics.”
We are profoundly grateful and honored to be the recipients of Kat’s legacy, which provides the most precious gift to the most vulnerable children: the unconditional love and care of a family.
Because—as the countless people whose Kat’s life has touched can confirm—love matters.
You can join Kat’s powerful act of compassion and give the transformative gift of trusting relationships and basic needs to the world’s most vulnerable children by including SOS Children’s Villages in your will.
To get started, click here or contact Emily Schlaegel at eschlaegel@sos-usa.org or (202) 470-5179.