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.
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.
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!
“You would make a great CASA.” These words stuck with Marni Vyn, though at the time, being busy with her young family kept her from getting involved.
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2025 Annual Luncheon | April 25, 2025
