Throughout 2025, CASA of Kent County has featured the people who make its mission of advocacy possible via the Humans of CASA campaign. This campaign has been an opportunity to share the written stories of individuals who selflessly support children in foster care in their community through volunteer work, philanthropy, their careers, and ambassadorship.
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.
This event provided an opportunity to recognize the invaluable impact of so many members of the CASA community. Guests enjoyed a delicious strolling dinner and mixed and mingled while reading the stories of featured Humans that were placed throughout the room. Tables were adorned – for the second year in a row – with beautiful art from East Grand Rapids Middle School students, who captured the concept of humanity with their custom sculptures.
Together, we recognized four award recipients: Andy Straub (Rookie of the Year), Ron and Jeannine Lemmon (Advocates of the Year), and Heidi Hendricks (Heart of CASA Award). Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to CASA’s mission, going above and beyond to support Kent County’s children.
During the program, guests heard from several Humans of CASA, including a panel of speakers: Guardian ad Litem Margaret Allen, Foster Care Case Manager Kaitlyn Kelly, and CASA Volunteer Matt Smith. Board Member Kevin Nelson and fellow Heart of West Michigan United Way colleague Suzanne Moody read a poem about what it means to be a Human of CASA. Guests also heard from a CASA teen who wanted to share a piece of her story via a letter.
The evening was one of celebration and resolve, giving guests the opportunity to reflect on the success of the previous year and to help prepare for the work of the coming year. Together, the CASA community raised funds, awareness, and potential volunteers who will ensure the continuation of CASA’s mission for years to come.
Total Attendees 210
Guests Interested in Becoming CASA Volunteers 20
New Donors 32
New Monthly Donors 7
Total Raised $83,519
This story is featured in the Winter 2025 edition of CASA Connect, CASA of Kent County’s quarterly newsletter click here to view a pdf version of the newsletter.
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.
AS 2025 DRAWS TO A CLOSE, we reflect on a remarkable year of connection, advocacy, and community.
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