Since opening its doors in the Greater Grand Rapids community in 1996, Express Employment Professionals has operated with a deep belief: that a good job is about more than just a paycheck. It’s about purpose, connection, and the opportunity to grow. This belief continues to drive everything they do today – helping individuals find not just employment, but also fulfillment and a path to a better future.
At the heart of Express is Janis Petrini, the dedicated owner whose passion for people is evident in every facet of her work. Janis is driven by a desire to help individuals recognize their potential, develop their talents, and discover a meaningful career. “We know that strong leaders create stronger teams,” Janis says. “And when people are empowered to reach their potential, everyone benefits.”
Janis’ commitment extends far beyond business. Her compassion for others reaches into the community through both Express and their partner organization, Frontline Training Solutions. “We’re all in this together,” she emphasizes. “Our business priority should be building strong communities.”
That spirit of community led Janis to CASA of Kent County. Introduced through a client who volunteers with CASA, Janis was moved by the organization’s mission after attending a luncheon. Inspired, she invited CASA staff to speak with her entire team, ensuring everyone understood the impact of their work.
What began as an introduction blossomed into a powerful and enduring partnership. Earlier this year, Express proudly became CASA’s first official Community Impact Partner. Janis explains that investing in the community through CASA of Kent County provides Express with an authentic focus on social responsibility. This focus strengthens their business and their employees’ sense of meaning and purpose.
“At Express, we’re in the business of making a difference in people’s lives,” she says. “We are passionate about connecting people. Through our partnership with CASA, we hope to inspire others to get involved, too.”
This story is featured in the Summer 2025 edition of CASA Connect, CASA of Kent County’s quarterly newsletter. Click here to view a pdf version of this newsletter.
For Heart of CASA, the annual fundraising dinner and award ceremony, the CASA team decided to take the opportunity of having the CASA community gathered to feature some of the Humans of CASA – in person. Thus, this year’s theme was born: Meet the humans. Feel the heart.
A month or so ago, I was reminded in the sweetest way of how lasting a CASA’s impact can be. While I was meeting with a prospective board member at a local coffee shop, a woman approached me and said, “We’ve never met, but my son, Peter, remembers you. He had a CASA — Miss Cindy.”
Hope is not a strategy—or so I’ve been told more than once.
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