A Legacy of Dedication
When Kathleen joined CASA in 2001, the organization was still known as Community Alternatives for Supportive Abodes — a name she jokes was “a bit of a mouthful.” At the time, the organization had just seven staff members and fewer than one hundred affordable apartments across about fifteen properties.
What drew Kathleen to CASA was a simple but powerful belief: no one chooses to be homeless. During her interview for the business manager position, she was asked what she believed caused homelessness. Her answer focused on circumstances — poverty, illness, loss, and the lack of affordable housing. More than 25 years later, that belief still guides her work today.
Growing Alongside CASA
Over the past two decades, Kathleen has watched CASA grow from a small nonprofit into a leading affordable housing organization serving communities across the Triangle. Today, CASA has nearly 40 staff members and is approaching 700 housing units across more than 50 properties.
Along the way, Kathleen has helped support some of CASA’s most important milestones, including the development of a groundbreaking housing community in 2003 designed specifically for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness — one of the first projects of its kind. She also witnessed the launch of Cabin for CASA in 2013 and has seen firsthand the work it takes to preserve affordable housing communities throughout Raleigh, Durham, and Carrboro.
The Work Behind the Mission
Much of Kathleen’s work has happened behind the scenes — supporting property management, preparing homes for residents, coordinating leases, and helping ensure people have stable places to live.
She has also witnessed the lasting impact affordable housing can have on people’s lives. Some CASA residents have remained in their homes for more than a decade after previously experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
“That’s the thing about permanent, affordable housing,” Kathleen says. “Once people find stability, they can stay for as long as they need to.”
Why the Work Still Matters
After 25 years, Kathleen’s belief in CASA’s mission remains as strong as ever.
“The solution to homelessness is housing. It starts with housing,” she says. “You can’t manage your life or find stability without a place to live.”
As CASA continues to grow, Kathleen remains proud to be part of the organization’s future and the work still ahead. After 25 years, one thing remains clear to her: safe, affordable housing changes lives.
