Michigan CASA is thrilled to have Nate Brink join our Board. Originally from Holland, Nate graduated from the University of Michigan and was a Defensive Lineman for the Wolverines football team, where he contributed in 16 games. (Go Blue!) Nate spent the next four years with two national insurance brokerage and consulting firms, NFP and USI. His primary roles were to bring his clients solutions that delivered a cost-efficient, compliant and comprehensive employee benefits portfolio.

This past January, Nate started a new role by joining Midwest Energy Group. With MEG, Nate helps companies and organizations lower and manage their energy costs so they can operate more efficiently and focus on their core business. All of these skills will translate well in helping Michigan CASA operate more efficiently too.

 

If his last name sounds familiar, that's because his mother, Sheryl Brink, is our Program Director in Ottawa County. Shortly after relocating back to Michigan in Spring 2016, Nate felt called to do his part for CASA too. "Having grown up in a home with two very supportive parents I felt like it was important I get involved with Michigan CASA in their pursuit to advocate for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect."  

Nate is one of three new Board members. Rob Jamula and Kathleen Brach have also recently joined the team. Look for them to be featured in future newsletters. Welcome all!

This year's theme is "Building Brighter Futures for America's Abused and Neglected Children."

 

Saturday, March 11 - Tuesday, March 14, 2017 Sheraton Seattle Hotel in Seattle, Washington.

Michigan CASA is losing a valued member of its family! Cass County Director Jim Ward has decided to retire this June - for the second time.  Jim has been a source of strength, stability and support to many of our new directors, including myself.  He always seems to answer the call when he's needed, which is how he began his second career at Cass County CASA. He also served on the Michigan CASA Board of Directors during a time of great transition. 

  

This article from Leader Publications will give you some insight into just how much he has accomplished during his tenure. His will be tough shoes to fill!

  

Please join me in wishing Jim a happy, well-deserved second retirement. Jim, we miss you already!

Patty Sabin

Executive Director