This article originally appeared in Good Day, Berks — Spotlight PA’s free daily newsletter for Berks County and your daily dose of Berks County essentials. Sign up here.
This week’s Community Spotlight honoree is Kara J. Seawell, 51, manager of external events and weddings at Reading Public Museum. When she’s not booking and overseeing events, she volunteers with Reading Pride Celebration, Connections Work, and other community organizations.
This conversation, conducted in person, has been edited for length and style.
Good Day, Berks: Where do you live?
Kara J. Seawell: West Reading.
Tell us a little about your family.
My family is a little smaller these days. We were once a big crew, but over the years, some members have passed away or moved elsewhere. I’m originally from central New Jersey and moved here when I was about 10 years old. I will always be a Jersey girl at heart.
Tell us about your work and what you like about it.
I always wanted to volunteer, but for a long time I wasn’t sure how to get started. Finally, I started volunteering with PA Pitstop rescue during the pandemic.
In 2023, I had the opportunity to participate in Leadership Berks, which opened the door to more community involvement. I met the Reading Pride Celebration board members during a networking event and started volunteering with them in 2024. I’m also involved with Connection Works’ Mother’s/Father’s Voice program that enables incarcerated parents to record a story on video for their young children. To be honest, if someone needs help and it fits into my schedule, I’m happy to jump in.
I currently serve on the board of Reading Pride Celebration and truly love being part of it. We’re celebrating our 20th year and are planning for the 20th Anniversary of Berks Pride Fest in July. We’re also working to expand our reach and become even more involved in the community, which is exciting.
Tell us about a challenge you faced.
An ongoing challenge has been learning how to balance everything I do, including work, volunteering, family, and making time to recharge. I tend to say “yes” a lot because I care deeply about the things I’m involved in. I’m still learning to prioritize and set boundaries so I can give my best to the commitments I take on.
Favorite place to eat in Berks County?
I have two favorites: Austin’s Restaurant and V&S Sandwich Shop on Lancaster Avenue. It depends on my cravings.
Where would you take a visitor to in Berks and why?
Blue Marsh. The lake holds special meaning to me, and the trails around it showcase the beauty of Berks County. Plus, you’re almost guaranteed to run into lots of dogs, and dogs just make life better.
What book, poem, song, or artwork is meaningful to you?
I don’t have one specific book, poem, or song that stands out, although I do have a stack of books waiting to be read. As for artwork, there’s a piece in the museum’s collection that I love. It’s by Jon Carsman called “Tulip Beds.” And I’m drawn to anything by painter Gary Erbe. I really love his work.
Who in your life has had a great influence on you, and how did they influence you?
The strong women in my life, both family and friends, have had an incredible influence on me.
They’ve modeled resilience, determination, and the importance of carving your own path. My dad also had a huge impact. He taught me to never give up, keep pushing forward, and to just keep on truckin.’
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