TOGETHER WE RISE: The Impact of Women in South Salt Lake with Kristy Chambers

This month, the South Salt Lake Chamber’s Women in Business series is proud to highlight one of our Chamber members, Kristy Chambers, CEO of Columbus Community Center — an organization dedicated to promoting inclusion, independence, and wellbeing for individuals with disabilities since 1968.

In this interview blog write-up, Kristy shares her leadership journey, her passion for creating lasting community impact, and how Columbus Community Center continues to evolve to meet the needs of the community. From nationally recognized projects like the Hub of Opportunity to expanded autism and employment services, Columbus is a leader in building a more inclusive and supportive society.

Read on to learn more about Kristy’s inspiring work and the vital role Columbus Community Center plays in South Salt Lake and beyond.

Kristy Chambers - Chief Executive Officer

Tell us about yourself! What do you want our community to know about you?

As the CEO of Columbus Community Center, I bring a unique blend of experience and passion to our mission. With over 20 years in the nonprofit social services sector, I've dedicated my career to developing innovative programs that expand opportunities for people with disabilities and underserved communities. My background as a CPA and leader in multiple industries, from healthcare to hospitality, gives me a well-rounded approach to solving complex challenges. But it's my connection to the cause that truly drives me. I’m deeply invested in creating systems that allow everyone a fair chance to lead happy, healthy lives, just like I would want for my loved ones.

What inspired you to pursue a leadership role, and how has that inspiration evolved over the years? My financial background allowed me to contribute to impactful organizations that have uplifted the community. Knowing the transactional inner workings of complex organizations allowed me to take the next step into the CEO role. After 14 years as CEO, I continue to be most driven by the opportunity to build programs, mentor future leaders, and advocate for systems-level change.

Can you share a turning point in your career that significantly shaped who you are as a leader today? One key turning point was transitioning from the private sector into nonprofit leadership. I fell in love with nonprofits' contributions to supporting causes and populations that make up the fabric of our community. Leading in the nonprofit sector allowed me to combine my business acumen with my passion for service. That shift fundamentally changed my perspective on success, from bottom lines to community outcomes.

How do you stay motivated and inspired in a role with many demands and responsibilities? What keeps me going is the impact I witness every day. From a client gaining new independence to a staff member growing into their potential, these moments remind me why I do what I do. I also stay grounded by serving on local and national nonprofit boards. It’s a reminder that we’re part of a broader movement working towards creating a better world.

What’s one piece of advice that’s stayed with you throughout your career?

One piece of advice that's stayed with me throughout my career is to always lead with integrity and compassion. Technical skills matter, but your values define your leadership and create lasting change.

How does the Columbus Community Center make a difference in South Salt Lake and the surrounding areas?

Columbus Community Center has a fifty-seven-year history in South Salt Lake. It offers residential, employment, day activity, and autism services to adults with disabilities. Our programs are not just about providing services; they're about making a real difference in people's lives. We meet individuals where they are, empowering them to live more independent lives and contribute to the economy to the best of their abilities. Through our collaborations with partners, we're addressing affordable housing and workforce inclusion issues, making our community a better place for everyone.

Can you tell us about a recent program or initiative at the Columbus Community Center that you're particularly proud of?

I’m particularly proud of our housing initiatives that blend support services with independent living. We’ve launched innovative housing models, including our Hub of Opportunity, that give adults with disabilities real choices and stability. These projects are reshaping what inclusive communities can look like. HUD recently acknowledged our Hub of Opportunity as a national example of an innovative transit-oriented development.

How has the organization evolved to meet the community's changing needs?

Columbus has always been about adapting to meet the needs of our community. We've expanded our services to address the autism spectrum, added vocational training to match today’s workforce, and invested in modern infrastructure. But we haven't stopped there. We've also embraced public policy advocacy and cross-sector collaboration to respond to systemic housing, employment, and health challenges. Our ability to adapt and evolve is a testament to our commitment to remaining successful in these rapidly changing times.

What role does the Columbus Community Center play in empowering and fostering inclusivity?

Inclusivity is at the core of everything we do. Columbus empowers individuals by honoring their voices, promoting choice, and creating environments where people with disabilities can thrive. Whether through employment, housing, or daily support, we aim to remove barriers and build a more inclusive society for everyone.

Learn more about how you can contribute to Columbus Community Center.