This month, we shared the stories of Leslie, Judge Gardner, Emily, and Matt. They each fill different roles for CASA of Kent County, but they all make an invaluable impact with their support. Read more about their respective CASA journeys below!
Many professionals can look back on their journey and recall the people who encouraged them along the way—parents, teachers, mentors, or friends—those who saw their potential and helped them grow.
For Leslie Parks, the graphic designer behind CASA of Kent County’s branding, that person was her mom. From an early age, Leslie loved creating brochures and posters for school projects, and her mom recognized her natural talent. She encouraged Leslie to pursue a creative career, knowing graphic design would be a perfect fit. But her mom’s influence didn’t stop there—she was also the one who first introduced Leslie to CASA.
Several years ago, Leslie took on the challenge of shaping CASA of Kent County’s visual identity. She started by developing the brand guide, then built out the materials that followed. Given the creative freedom to design from scratch, Leslie crafted a brand that truly reflects CASA’s heart and mission.
Graphic design, Leslie explains, is often subjective—there’s no single right answer when it comes to branding. But one thing was clear from the start: kids needed to be at the center. Because confidentiality prevents the use of real CASA children’s photos, Leslie carefully selected images that authentically represent the diversity and spirit of the kids CASA serves.
Through her work, Leslie plays a vital role in spreading awareness about CASA of Kent County. Her other clients range from furniture companies to healthcare systems, but CASA holds a special place in her heart. “Knowing that I’m part of something that’s making a difference is pretty awesome,” she says. “I just want to support in any way I can.”
At first, Leslie didn’t fully grasp the depth of CASA’s mission. “I knew they were advocating for kids in the court system,” she shares. “But when I attended an event, I had this moment where I realized, ‘Oh, this is big. These kids need someone advocating for them.’”
Thanks to her talent and dedication, Leslie helps bring CASA’s mission to life. And through her graphic design, she brings people to CASA to fulfill that mission.
Judge Patricia Gardner often jokes that her beloved dog is like her third child. Family means everything to her – whether it’s enjoying a warm cup of coffee with friends, hunting for antiques with her husband of 40 years, or cherishing moments with her grandson. She credits her parents for shaping the person she is today, along with aunts who believed in her and mentors who guided her both in law and on the bench. Surrounded by a strong, loving support system, she deeply understands how essential that foundation is for anyone to thrive.
But every day, Judge Gardner steps into a courtroom where many children don’t have that kind of steady, unwavering support. Instead, they face instability, trauma, and a child welfare system that, despite its best efforts, often falls short. These children need someone to look out for them – someone who will stand by their side, listen to their needs, and fight for their future.
That’s where CASA of Kent County comes in.
Jude Gardner describes their impact:
If a child is struggling in school, a caseworker may not have time to explore better educational options. But a CASA can.
If there’s a concern about a dangerous adult in a child’s life, a CASA can take the extra step of checking in and making sure the child is safe.
“CASA is the secret weapon of the court in a system that requires additional support. CASA volunteers are incredible human beings. They add value in every case.”
She has witnessed firsthand the difference a CASA can make:
A little boy who had no language skills, finding his voice with a CASA by his side – even across stateliness.
Children stuck in the system for years, waiting for adoption, but never waiting alone because a CASA remained with them.
Teenagers, moody and guarded, who pushed everyone away – except for their CASA, who refused to give up on them.
Judge Gardner summarizes all of this by saying, “CASA is amazing. There are so many stories of incredible humans. They are a huge help to me, and I have come to rely on them.”
And so have the children in foster care.
Emily Schichtel is a West Michigan girl through and through. Growing up in the area, attending Grand Valley State University, and being deeply rooted in the community she loves, it was a natural decision to dedicate her career to serving this region.
Emily has worked at Heart of West Michigan United Way for the past sixteen years. She began as an intern and liked it so much, she stayed. “I just found my home here,” she says. She has worked in multiple roles in multiple departments but really enjoys her current role as Senior Community Impact Manager.
In her position, Emily oversees the allocation of resources raised by United Way, building relationships with partner agencies that provide direct services to the community. “I get to meet amazing, inspiring people and really get to know the community,” she says. “It’s a great role.” Her belief in United Way’s vision of “A thriving community for all” drives her work. While she admits it might sound idealistic, Emily is confident it’s possible. “If I didn’t believe in it, I wouldn’t be doing the work that I do.”
The passion for fostering a thriving community is what connected Emily to CASA of Kent County. Emily has learned more about CASA by overseeing the grant funding they receive from the United Way. “I’m drawn to CASA’s mission and inspired by the volunteers who are willing to get so involved in a child’s life.” Emily also sees how the two organizations, although they operate differently, have missions that are deeply aligned. “A thriving community has to include safety for children,” she explains.
Emily’s story is a reminder of the impact one person can have when they dedicate themselves to their community. Through her work at United Way and her support of organizations like CASA of Kent County, she demonstrates how working together and promoting safety for children can create a brighter, stronger future for all.
Matt Jemilo and Holly Goad first met while rock climbing with friends. A chance meeting turned into a first date, and now they’re planning an October wedding. But beyond their busy lives, they share a deep commitment—to each other and to their community.
CASA of Kent County had already captured both their hearts separately, but they experienced their first Heart of CASA dinner together.
For Matt, CASA kept reappearing—through a coworker’s impactful stories, chance encounters with CASA’s executive director, and the undeniable need for advocates in the community. He knew he couldn’t be a volunteer advocate – his career in HR was demanding and he didn’t have the time and attention to devote to a child in foster care. However, the mission resonated deeply.
Matt understood the power of one steady presence in a child’s life because he had lived it. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, his home life was turbulent. His parents’ divorce during high school left him struggling, but his track and cross-country coach saw something in him. He pushed Matt to believe in himself—to run, to study, to dream beyond the chaos at home.
“Had he not been there, I like to think I would have figured it out,” Matt admits. “But I’m glad I didn’t have to.”
The encouragement from his coach changed everything. Matt excelled, obtaining scholarships and having an exciting track career in college. Matt even earned an All-American title in track. He discovered that dedication could transform his life. “It’s more than just running quickly around a track, you know?” he reflects. “It was that I believed in myself and the joy I found.”
Matt is a proud CASA ambassador and monthly donor, offering occasional HR guidance to support the organization behind the scenes. While he may not serve as a volunteer advocate, he plays a vital role in advancing CASA’s mission – and looks forward to supporting Holly as she prepares to begin training to become a court-appointed special advocate. Their story is just beginning. Stay tuned next week for Holly’s.
This post is part of our 2025 Humans of CASA of Kent County campaign. Click here to check out the campaign webpage and read more featured stories.
As a prospective CASA volunteer, you’re about to embark on a transformative learning journey. Here’s what you can expect from our comprehensive training program.
I’ve often heard CASA volunteers referred to as superheroes. After all, they’re at the forefront, advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. But calling them superheroes suggests they have a special set of powers that allow them to swoop in and tackle complex challenges with extraordinary, superhuman abilities. That’s not the reality.
What a wonder-filled night! On October 10, 2024, the CASA community gathered at The High Five GR for the annual Heart of CASA dinner.
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2025 Annual Luncheon | April 25, 2025
