Kathy Mullen: Human of CASA of Kent County

For Kathy Mullen, helping others has never been about recognition—it’s simply the way she moves through the world. Whether it’s doting on her grandchildren, volunteering in the community, or supporting a cause she believes in, Kathy leads with quiet compassion and a steady heart.

“I always try to be involved in helping,” Kathy says. “I want to leave the world a better place.”

And she has. Kathy has been volunteering since she was 20, often behind the scenes—listening, noticing, and responding to the needs of those around her. She was deeply involved in her children’s schools while they were growing up and continued to give her time wherever she saw a need. Her impact has always been rooted in the little things—small acts of kindness that accumulate into something lasting.

Kathy had long known about CASA of Kent County and its mission to advocate for children in foster care. But with four kids of her own, she waited until the timing was right. In 2015, she began her CASA journey, taking on a case with older youth nearing adulthood. She didn’t just fulfill her advocacy role—she helped the youth navigate the next chapter of their lives, exploring colleges and preparing for the future.

Even after that case closed, Kathy didn’t step away. Instead, she deepened her commitment. She and her husband, Pat, became donors, and later helped establish CASA’s Endowment Fund.

“Almost every non-profit has to rely on more than one funding source to remain viable and vibrant,” Kathy explains. “If one goes low, there needs to be a backup—something sustainable. An endowment is a really good way to do that.”

Today, Kathy continues to serve on CASA’s Board and remains a constant, reliable presence. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: “Help in little ways.” Yet through her time, her gifts, and her leadership, she has helped in big ways, too—none more enduring than the legacy she’s helping to build through the CASA Endowment.

In all she does, Kathy Mullen quietly reminds us that meaningful change often begins with one steady step at a time.