For Samm Rasmussen, intentionality is a way of life. Every choice she makes—how she spends her evenings, how she connects with others, and how she serves as a CASA volunteer—comes from a place of purpose and heart.
Samm’s empathy runs deep, shaped by a tumultuous childhood that gave her insight into what many children in foster care experience. When her boss, who was involved with Michigan CASA, invited her to an event, she was moved by the stories she heard. “I think because of my past experience, I know how to pivot and handle difficult situations, especially with kids.” Samm realized that she had something to offer these kids and decided to get involved.
In her three years as a CASA volunteer, Samm has served on two cases. She regularly attends trainings offered to volunteers—always seeking to grow and give her best. “Everybody has stuff going on, right? CASA trainings give me more tools and techniques to interact in different situations, both with CASA kids and in life.” For Samm, showing up is an intentional act of care.
That same intentionality carries into her personal life. Since the fall of 2020, Samm and her husband, Chad, have hosted “Framily Night” every Thursday. It began when a friend was going through a divorce, and one of the children said what he wanted most was to go to Samm and Chad’s house. They opened their doors—and their circle grew. Now, about fifteen people gather weekly, kids and adults alike. “It’s friends who are family coming together,” Samm says.
Samm sees that same need in the CASA families she serves—the need for people who care, show up, and stay consistent. “I’ve been involved in other organizations that involve kids, and while they’re all great, with CASA, you immediately see the impact you’re making.” Samm continues, “There is a direct impact you can make on these kids’ lives. And even if it’s one child – you can change the trajectory of their life.”
Through every action, Samm lives with purpose—building connection intentionally, kindly, and one act of care at a time. Her story is a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t come through grand gestures, but through showing up with intention day after day. Samm serves as a reminder that when you lead with purpose, even the smallest acts can change lives, heal hearts, and strengthen a community.
For Chad Kirkpatrick, service has never been a pastime—it’s what guides every part of his life. As the VP of Operations at Broadway Grand Rapids, he calls his role his “dream job,” not for the title, but because nonprofit work feeds a part of him nothing else ever has. His commitment to community extends beyond his job, reflected in the many ways he invests his time in volunteer roles.
Music has always been part of Trudi Huizenga’s life. It shaped her career, her outlook, and—perhaps most importantly—her service to others.
Patty Sabin’s journey into advocacy began long before she ever volunteered with CASA. It started at home, helping her two children navigate school with their own unique learning styles. Supporting them through those challenging years taught her how to speak up, ask questions, and persist—skills that would become the foundation of her life’s work.
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