April Stories: Humans of CASA of Kent County

This month, we shared the stories of Holly, Rachel, and Kelly. 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!

Holly Goad, CASA Donor & Ambassador

Matt Jemilo and Holly Goad each found CASA of Kent County in their own way, but today, they support the mission as a couple. After previously sharing Matt’s story, we’re excited to introduce you to Holly.

Holly first discovered CASA shortly after moving to Grand Rapids. Feeling isolated in a new city, she sought volunteer opportunities but couldn’t get involved at the time. It wasn’t until last year, attending the Heart of CASA dinner with Matt, that the mission truly resonated with both of them. For Matt, it was a moment of connection. “It was so reassuring to realize that a cause important to me had also been on her heart long before we met,” he said.

Holly’s work as a nurse in the Grand Rapids Public School system deepened her understanding of the struggles many children face. “Some of my students were in foster care or lacked a supportive home life,” she shared. These experiences made her question, “What can I do to help?” She realized these children were part of her community, and she felt compelled to make a difference.

Having grown up with supportive parents and positive role models, Holly understands the power of guidance and stability. “I was fortunate to be surrounded by adults who showed me there are many paths in life and good people who care,” she reflected.

Currently finishing her Master’s degree in Nursing Education, Holly has already applied to become a CASA volunteer. She’s excited to go through training so she can contribute to her community and create lasting change.

Matt and Holly believe that investing in children’s futures is crucial. Holly explains, “These kids are going to be in our shoes, making important decisions, leading important lives. So how do we set them up to be successful?” Their answer: by supporting CASA’s mission to provide hope and opportunity—each in their own way.

Rachel Render, CASA Donor & Committee Member

Advocating for children in foster care takes all kinds of hearts and hands. Some people meet with children face-to-face, building trust and offering steady encouragement. Others work quietly behind the scenes, making sure the mission moves forward. At CASA of Kent County, every role matters, and Rachel Render knows that well.

Years ago, Rachel and her husband, Devin, served as CASA volunteers in Houston, advocating for two young boys in foster care. Today, living in Michigan with two sons of their own, their passion for CASA’s mission hasn’t faded — it’s simply taken a new shape.

“Everybody plays a part,” Rachel says.

Now working in fundraising at Davenport University, Rachel uses her professional skills to support CASA of Kent County from behind the scenes. She advises the executive director, helps with development efforts, serves on CASA’s Finance Committee, and enjoys advising the Endowment committee.

For Rachel, her past advocacy work continues to shape her heart and her decisions. Her sons are now seven and nine — close in age to the boys she and Devin once supported through CASA. That connection stays with her.

“It’s hard not to compare,” she reflects. “But it reminds us to focus on what we can do right now.”

The boys they once advocated for are never far from her thoughts. They inspire her to connect with students at Davenport who need a little extra help reaching college. They remind her of the resilience children carry. And they keep her rooted in the importance of giving back.

“I’m really proud of the community I get to be a part of,” Rachel shares. “I get to be involved with CASA, love my job every day, and be proud of my family. My husband and I have worked really hard to love our life right now — and we’re so fortunate we get to.”

At CASA of Kent County, stories like Rachel’s remind us: Every role matters. Every heart makes a difference.

Kelly Hernandez, CASA Volunteer

For as long as Kelly Hernandez can remember, volunteering has been woven into the fabric of her life. It’s not just something she does — it’s who she is. Growing up, Kelly had a front-row seat to compassion in action. Her mother, with a heart as big as her talent for cooking, spent countless hours preparing meals for people in need at their church. Kelly watched in awe as her mom turned ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary — not just food, but love.

“She always taught us that no matter where you are or what you have, there is always a way to offer your help,” Kelly reflects. “It’s something I carry with me every day.”

That lesson took root early. When Kelly was given the chance in high school to volunteer with the Grand Rapids Symphony, she didn’t hesitate. She was able to share her love of music with kids at community events. That first step into service sparked something powerful in her. Since then, she has continued to pour her time and heart into organizations like the Hispanic Center of West Michigan and CASA of Kent County, where she now advocates for children navigating the foster care system.

Sworn in as a CASA volunteer in January 2022, Kelly has already served on four complex cases. With every challenge, she leads with empathy and understanding — always keeping the best interest of the children at the center of her work. Her ability to speak Spanish has been an invaluable gift, allowing her to connect deeply with families who might otherwise feel unheard or unseen.

Kelly’s passion for serving her community is rooted in her mother’s simple but powerful example. “If I can be even a little like her,” Kelly says with a smile, “then I know I’ve succeeded.”

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.