This article was written by guest contributor Kevin Nelson and edited by CASA staff. Thank you, Kevin!
Kevin Nelson
Development Specialist
Heart of West Michigan United Way
I heard about CASA of Kent County after I moved to Grand Rapids and joined the United Way team. I have a personal connection to child advocacy and a heart for nonprofit work. I did some research on CASA and realized that its mission speaks to me. When I attended the Heart of CASA event, I had the opportunity to chat with several volunteers. They inspired me to send information to friends that I think would make great CASA volunteers.
I chose to donate to CASA because I am very passionate about giving, and I understand the importance of supporting missions that reflect a future you want to see in your own community. I believe our community’s future is stronger with CASA of Kent County doing the important work in advocating for our area’s most vulnerable youth. It is my belief that all people should choose a few charities and commit to recurring monthly support, and I am happy to have selected CASA of Kent County as one of mine.
I am passionate about creating communities centered around philanthropy and am working towards becoming a go-to leader in West Michigan that donors, volunteers, or really any neighbor feels comfortable approaching to ask for advice on what organizations they should support, why, and how to best do that.
I look forward to seeing how CASA continues to grow, I plan to engage my circles of influence in your mission, and I hope to stay engaged moving forward.
This article is part of the Winter 2022 edition of CASA Connect, CASA of Kent County’s quarterly newsletter. Click here to view a pdf version of this newsletter.
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.
Following nearly two years of service to CASA of Kent County, our Administrative Coordinator, Melissa Ronquist, has retired. Please join us in thanking Melissa for her generous dedication to CASA and wishing her well in this new stage of her life!
This month, we shared Courtney, Steven, and Julie’s stories. 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!
Being an informed community member will better equip you to advocate for vulnerable children in our community. Subscribe to our email list to stay up to date on CASA of Kent County news, stories, events, and more. We promise not to overwhelm you with too many emails!
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2025 Annual Luncheon | April 25, 2025
