Katie Smith’s journey with Yakima Neighborhood Health Services (YNHS) is one of inspiration, community, and full-circle connection. More than 20 years ago as a young mom, she turned to the WIC program at YNHS to help support her family. Today, she leads that very program as the Nutrition Services Director, overseeing Medical Nutrition Services, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, and other public health initiatives.
“Over 20 years ago, before I became a Registered Dietitian, I was a young mom participating in the WIC program at YNHS,” Katie says. “I was a member of the community that YNHS helped, and now I get to coordinate that service for the organization. I am grateful for that.”
Born and raised in Yakima, Katie attended East Valley High School, Yakima Valley College, and Central Washington University, where she earned her Master of Science in Nutrition and became a Registered Dietitian. Her connection to YNHS began during her Dietetic Internship.
“YNHS was one of my rotations, and I was able to see the wraparound services they provided,” she recalls. “The way that nutrition was integrated into many of the services that were offered was impressive. It was what I wanted to do with my career—and more—all in one place.”
Katie has now been with YNHS for more than 11 years. What keeps her inspired is the people—both the patients and the colleagues she works alongside.
“I enjoy interacting with all the different people that come to YNHS,” Katie shares. “I am always gaining new perspectives, being challenged to find solutions, and being an active part of the YNHS mission.”
For Katie, serving underserved communities isn’t just a job—it’s a calling.
“I have always believed that regardless of a person’s background or current situation, we all deserve the opportunity to live to our highest potential,” she says. “Underserved communities face more prominent barriers to achieving this. I wanted to work with these communities in hopes that I can make a difference in the lives of those that are less likely to have a voice.”
Her favorite piece of advice for patients is timeless: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
It’s living that philosophy that led Katie to be such a valued part of the YNHS family.
“The Yakima Valley is my home; it is my children’s home,” Katie adds. “I am proud to be a part of the work that YNHS is doing to serve our community.”