Jun 23, 2020 Q & A: An Interview with Katie Martin, co-founder of Stonington Feeds Stonington

After learning more about the amazing founder of Stonington Feeds Stonington, Nicole Jones, last week, it felt important to become better acquainted with some of the key players that have helped shape this important initiative. Katie Martin was the first person to come on board with Nicole to help set up the initial Go Fund Me campaign. She has played the crucial role as Nicole’s “right hand” and has continued volunteering her time, creative energy, and crucial emotional support. Katie was interviewed via email, and here was our conversation.

Tell me about where you grew up and what your family life was like.

I was born in Vermont and lived in New Hampshire until I was 12 years old. My Mom, Dad, brother, and I moved to Texas and then to North Carolina. I grew up in a loving family with supportive parents who encouraged me to try everything and to believe in myself. My husband and I moved to Stonington with our daughter a little over 3 years ago, and now we also have a son.

How did your parents influence you?

My mom was my biggest cheerleader and confidant and gave me wings to try all sorts of things. My dad inspired me as a successful entrepreneur and he also taught me to have faith and integrity. Together they showed me what a lasting, loving marriage looks like. They gave us the best childhood with fun memories I will cherish forever. I owe everything to my parents for who I am today.

Are you married? Tell me about your family.

I have been married to my best friend, Matt Martin for almost 13 years. We have two children. Gia (age 6) will be a first grader at Dean’s Mill Elementary in the fall. She loves to dance and is a ballet student at Eastern Connecticut Ballet. She is the best big sister to her brother Luca (age 2). Luca is a busy toddler and is learning to do all kinds of things. They are both sweet and it’s so fun to watch them grow.

What led you to your current career?

I graduated with a B.A. in Exercise & Sports Science from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I work as a fitness professional specializing in Pilates and Barre. I have had a 20 year career in the industry including owning my own fitness/personal training studio for six years. I currently teach Barre & HIIT classes at Barre Coast in Westerly, RI.

How did you become involved with Stonington Feeds Stonington?

Nicole Jones reached out to me shortly after learning that we would have to shelter in place due to the global pandemic. She asked me if I might be interested in helping her launch a Go Fund Me campaign to help our local restaurants and families that would certainly be impacted directly by this order. I immediately said “yes,” and it was without a doubt one of the best decisions I have ever made!

What are you most proud of accomplishing?

I think becoming a mother has been something I am most proud of. I owned my own business and that was a dream come true for me. I also raised a $225,000 for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in 2017, and that is also something I am very proud of.

How would friends and acquaintances describe you?

My friends would probably describe me as helpful and encouraging. I always want to see my friends smile and feel loved.

*(Nicole Jones responded, “Katie is the kind of person who brings out the best in people and inspires you to be a better person.”)

Share with me something about yourself that you want to improve.

I believe there is always something to learn to improve our understanding of ourselves, the world, and those around us. If I am not learning, I am not growing. Growth happens often when we are most uncomfortable. So whenever I am feeling out of my comfort zone, I know I am on to something great!

Describe a scene of your vision for the future of Stonington Feeds Stonington.

I envision SFS growing into a non profit that continues to serve our community and its needs in the best possible way. I look forward to working with Nicole and our wonderful volunteers to help make this a reality and so much more.

*If anyone has unique ideas that they want to take the lead on under SFS to help us do more in the community, please reach out!