By Elsa Caetano
Kennedy Heights Community Center
Elsa Caetano has served as the executive director of Kennedy Heights Community Center since 2022. With a background in education and the arts — and more than 15 years of youth work experience in Madison — Caetano brings a steady, relationship-centered approach to community work that prioritizes consistency, dignity, and belonging.
Kennedy Heights Community Center provides year-round, free-of-cost programming for youth and families, including daily after-school support and a 9-week summer camp. For many residents, the center is a safe and familiar place where children can learn, build friendships, and connect with caring adults — while parents and caregivers can find trusted support and resources.
Over the past three years, Kennedy Heights has also made intentional efforts to strengthen trust across the community. One key initiative has been Pizza With Police, a monthly gathering created to bridge the gap between residents and law enforcement through real conversation in a low-pressure setting. The meetings were co-created with Northside Police Officer Lu Senatus, who now serves on the Kennedy Heights board of directors — reflecting a commitment to ongoing partnership and accountability.
Beyond structured programs and events, the day-to-day work at Kennedy Heights often centers on crisis prevention and intervention. Whether helping de-escalate conflict, supporting a family through a difficult moment, or connecting residents with resources, the center’s staff works to reduce harm and strengthen stability. That steady presence — showing up, following through, and listening — has been central to building trust over time.
Outside of work, Caetano enjoys cooking and sharing meals, gardening, skiing, walking and spending time with family and friends. Her driving purpose is simple and unwavering: helping ensure children in the community have a brighter future and families have the support they need to thrive.
