Partners in Possibility
Paula Davis West, a member of the KenCrest Centers Board, and her husband, Wayne West, share a longstanding connection to KenCrest through Paula's father, Rev. Harvey Davis, who founded the Family Fund. Together, they reflect on family, service, philanthropy, and their commitment to KenCrest's mission.
By Wendy Parsons
Chief Philanthropy Officer
Q: Your family has a long history with KenCrest through Paula's father. What did he teach you about giving back, and how did that influence your decision to become a KenCrest Board Member?
A: Dad modeled inclusion long before it became a common term. He simply invited and involved everyone. We were raised to be grateful for our blessings and to share them with others.
After Dad died in 2023, we found ourselves missing his connection to KenCrest and the Family Fund. He loved sharing the organization's work, and as we looked toward retirement, we wanted to continue in his footsteps. Serving on the Board felt like a meaningful way to learn more and give back.
Q: What has inspired you most about KenCrest, and how has Board service shaped your view on philanthropy?
A: KenCrest is much more than many people realize. It is a dynamic organization that supports individuals and families at all stages of life, and even after a year on the Board, we are still learning about its impact.
Serving on the Board has reinforced our belief that KenCrest's mission can only be realized if everyone participates. While we may not be able to provide direct care, philanthropy allows us to support the people, programs, and resources that help individuals and families thrive.
Q: Is there a value your father instilled that continues to guide your lives today?
Equality.
Wayne often remembers something Dad repeated that his mother said to him and his siblings: "No one is better than you, nor are you better than anyone else." Those words shaped Dad's life, especially during times when he faced discrimination. He believed deeply in equality and in our responsibility to work toward it for all people, regardless of circumstance or limitation.
Q: Is there a KenCrest experience that reinforced why this mission matters?
A: Helping with Family Fund gift fulfillment was especially meaningful. Seeing gifts from churches, businesses, and individuals come together, and how joyful the staff who took time from other duties to prepare gift packages, was a powerful reminder of how many people share in this work and the difference the Family Fund makes during times of both joy and need.
Q: When you think about possibility and KenCrest's future, what would you say to someone considering becoming involved?
A: KenCrest begins with possibility. Rather than focusing on what cannot be done, KenCrest focuses on what can be achieved and how each individual can be supported in reaching his/her goals.
KenCrest exemplifies its mission by empowering people with support and resources needed to live full lives and build greater independence. Its vision includes everyone, and with more than 120 years of service behind and a strong future ahead, it is more than worthy of our investment and support.
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