No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Key Largo’s Katie Holly, the community outreach manager for Habitat of Humanity of the Upper Keys. She is the daughter of Holly and Ed Holly —- he is the athletic director and head football coach at Coral Shores High School. After graduating from Coral Shores, she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and business from Florida State University. She is a member of the Key Largo Rotary and can be found at community events around the Upper Keys.
How long have you lived in the Keys? I moved here with my parents and three younger brothers. We had been frequent visitors. I started kindergarten at Plantation Key School.
What drew you to the Keys? My parents and the water.
What brought you back to the Keys after college? After graduation from FSU, I came home to take a break. In addition to my coursework, I was active in my sorority and other organizations and needed a break. After a week, I got bored and saw a job opening at Habitat. I applied and here I am. I plan to go to law school in a year or two. I had a summer internship with (State Attorney) Dennis Ward’s office and loved it. I have a passion for legal work.
What do you enjoy most about your work? Being a part of such a supportive community. Seeing the joy of our new homeowners when we do a ribbon-cutting ceremony. It brings all the work and efforts together.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? A pull to serve the very community that helped me grow up and helped me succeed. I was very active in Rotary’s Interact (a school-based club sponsored by a local Rotary club for high schoolers) and participated in service projects and community service. I wanted to give back.
Weirdest experience you’ve had in the Keys? Driving to school and being delayed by a flock of chickens crossing the road or peacocks crossing on the Old Highway.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? Jimmy Carter, the founder of Habitat for Humanity International. The more I’ve learned about the organization, I would love to hear from him directly about how he came to the idea of building housing.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? Breathe underwater. I would be a mermaid.
Favorite food? I love all food but I can’t go wrong with a good steak.
Favorite movie? “Legally Blond” with Reese Witherspoon.
Favorite book? Currently, I’ve been reading a lot of nonfiction about the founding of America. I’m engrossed in learning about the process.
What are your hobbies? Snorkeling, diving and wakeboarding. I was also a long-time dancer at On Your Toes Studio in Tavernier and I now attend random dance classes in Miami with sorority sisters.
Is there a skill/talent you want to master? I would love to learn sign language and become fluent in Spanish.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? Being able to come back to our amazing community to serve in the not-for-profit world.
Do you have any regrets? Never.
What is the biggest daily challenge you face? Going a day without coffee.
