Kristen Sutherland does not just see problems; she sees patterns, systems, and possibilities. As the Housing Program Manager at United Way of Alamance County, Kristen brings a unique blend of academic insight, lived experience, and deep compassion to one of the most complex challenges facing our community: housing insecurity.
With a background in anthropology and women’s and gender studies, Kristen approaches housing not just as a logistical issue, but as a deeply human one. She understands that housing intersects with education, health, employment, and justice. She is committed to addressing those intersections with both strategy and empathy. “The belief that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world,” by Paul Farmer, is one of the guiding quotes that shapes her work.
Kristen’s journey into housing advocacy began while working at Alamance Community College, where she supported students facing financial and housing crises. Her role as Single Stop Coordinator gave her firsthand insight into the barriers people face and the power of timely, compassionate support. That experience laid the foundation for her transition to United Way, where she now leads collaborative efforts to improve housing stability across the county.
Since stepping into her new role in March 2025, Kristen has helped strengthen housing workgroups, build bridges across agencies, and respond to urgent community needs, including helping coordinate emergency housing assistance during recent local flooding. Her leadership is marked by courage and humility. “I don’t have the answer,” she says, “but I’m willing to keep showing up and moving the needle even a tiny bit further because it matters.”
Her colleagues describe her as fearless, action-oriented, and deeply collaborative. She’s known for making space at the table for voices that are often overlooked and for mentoring women navigating leadership, life balance, and personal growth. Whether she’s coordinating fundraisers, mentoring students, or helping someone facing eviction, Kristen leads with integrity and heart.
Margaret Mead’s renowned quote, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has,” serves not merely as a guiding principle but as a reflection of Kristen’s professional ethos. It encapsulates her commitment to empowering individuals, amplifying underrepresented voices, and fostering meaningful change through collective action.
