Kasey started at SCAN as the Operations Coordinator just a week before the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily shifted operations for SCAN and its programs in March 2020. She immediately jumped in to help staff and families navigate these challenging times. Her positive energy, intelligence, hard work and kindness have been invaluable in keeping SCAN running smoothly and we all feel lucky to have Kasey as an integral part of the SCAN team.
What has your life/work experience been that brought you to SCAN? What is your current role?
I am the Operations Coordinator for SCAN and have been in my position for a little over a year. Within my role, I provide administrative and program support, work alongside the development team, and help facilitate daily operations for the organization.
Growing up in the Richmond area, I traveled to the city frequently, becoming exposed to a multitude of volunteer opportunities. I always had a sense I wanted to work with people doing work for people, and it led me to the non-profit space. I worked in two local museums for two years doing guest engagement work, and though I enjoyed my time there, I felt the draw to join an organization providing more on the ground and personal support to the community. I have many wonderful kids in my life through family and friends and have always believed that children are our most important population, so being able to contribute to a mission such as SCAN's is incredibly important to me.
Is there anything you wish other people knew about SCAN?
I want people to know how truly dedicated to serving children and families every person involved with SCAN is. From staff to volunteers, the Board of Directors, and community members who donate, every person has been drawn to our mission in the best way. The amount of love and support for every person who comes to SCAN whether it is through the Family Support Program or Child Advocacy Center is incredibly moving.
What has been the best experience with SCAN so far?
The opportunity to work with the Board of Young Professionals to host Santa Shop last year. Due to the pandemic, we were unable to host the event in its usual fashion and had to think outside of the box in order to provide some support to families during the holiday season. It was wonderful to be a part of the brainstorming and planning and to see everything come together in a unique and safe way. Seeing the outpouring of love and support to these families by members of the community was a very special way to help end a difficult year.
What are any challenges you have faced in your work with SCAN?
My first week at SCAN was the last week of “normal” before the COVID-19 pandemic really started to ramp up in Virginia. Though it was challenging switching career paths and navigating an almost all virtual world, I feel very lucky to have started with this organization at that time. I still have not met many of my colleagues in person, but I am looking forward to doing so once we are able to gather safely again.