“I just want to be known,” says Kym Matthews, a CASA stakeholder who embodies the heart of the organization.
Kym is the loveliest person—with a sparkle in her eyes and hugs that radiate warmth, even for people she’s meeting for the first time. She shares openly about her life, her family, and the struggles they’ve faced, using her experiences to connect deeply with others.
✨ How she found CASA:
Kym first learned about CASA at a “Power Lunch,” where the women shared their favorite nonprofit and ice cream flavor. Someone mentioned CASA—and moose tracks—and her curiosity was piqued.
She attended CASA’s annual luncheon and was so moved that she returned the next year, bringing a friend who became a CASA volunteer. Though Kym hopes to volunteer someday, she decided: “I could introduce people to CASA and serve in a different way.”
💡 Her perspective on foster care:
As a mom of three daughters, Kym understands the challenges of raising kids and has leaned on others for support and advice. Reflecting on foster care, she says: “The thing these kids don’t have is someone to help them—someone to be a North Pole. Sometimes, the CASA volunteer is that person, the steady pole to anchor to.”
🌟 Her passion for helping others:
CASA is just one of many causes close to Kym’s heart. She raises money to combat homelessness, champions mental health, and uses her personal training business to support and encourage others.
Kym has faced her own challenges but believes in the power of persistence: “Nobody changes their life in one giant step. If you talk to any successful person, they didn’t start out successful. They had to do a lot of work to get there.”
Her goal is simple yet powerful: “I want to help people understand that we can, in small steps, change our lives.”
Step by step, Kym is making a difference—building community, making connections, and lifting others up. At CASA and throughout West Michigan, she’s leaving her mark.
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.
Heidi Hendricks walked into Starbucks with a warm smile and cheerful wave, radiating the same welcoming energy she brings to CASA. Over coffee, she shared her journey with CASA and the deep personal connections that have shaped her commitment to the organization.
This edition of CASA Connect, we’re featuring a special co-CASA duo: longtime friends Kay Bylenga and Barb Zylstra. Both Kay and Barb have been committed advocates, ambassadors, and supporters of CASA’s mission in many ways. We are honored to spotlight their CASA journeys this quarter.
For Will, becoming a CASA volunteer felt like a natural next step that aligned with their goals and passions.
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