Casey's Story
When did you first get involved with CCFI?
I started volunteering with the Neighborhood Center program that CCFI ran at Wilson Elementary in 2011. I loved it so much! Every week I would go to Wilson Elementary after work and play with the kids that were part of that program for a couple of hours over the course of two years. I truly enjoyed getting to know the different kids and their stories as we ran around the playground or shot hoops. Being a part of this program opened my eyes to the challenges, difficulties and trauma being experienced by so many kids right here in our neighborhoods.
Why were you moved to join CCFI as a Board Member?
Due to my involvement with the Neighborhood Center program and learning more about the overall mission of CCFI, I thought being on the board was an incredible opportunity to give back to our community in a different way than I had done before. I also knew it would help me grow in learning more about how a non-profit organization operates in influencing the community.
What do you enjoy most about your service on the Board?
For me it is about the relationships with people. I’ve loved being a part of something much bigger than me with people who have the same mindset. I have loved seeing up close and personal the work that is being done by an incredible staff of people committed to bettering the lives of families and kids. I have loved being a part supporting decisions that will hopefully better impact the lives of so many families in our community. I feel very fortunate to be a part of CCFI as a volunteer and board member.
What do you feel is the biggest impact CCFI has made on the community?
This is a tough question because there is no one area of CCFI’s work that is greater than another. ALL of the work being done by CCFI is having a major impact on the community. However, for me personally since my journey with CCFI started with Neighborhood Centers and to be a part of seeing that develop now into Boys & Girls Club of Norman has been really special. The growth of this program to be where it is now as part of a larger national organization such as the Boys & Girls Club right here in Norman is so special and something that I love.
What would you like to say to encourage others to get involved with CCFI, whether by donating or volunteering?
Honestly, my first question to others considering it is ‘Why Not’? It’s an organization that has been part of our community for 50 years giving back to strengthen and empower families and kids. What is occurring at CCFI is transformational and critical to the success of our community and future. When you get to be a part of something greater than yourself, ultimately you always receive more than you feel you ever give. I feel very fortunate and thankful to be a part of CCFI and I encourage others to get involved as well!