Today we’d like to introduce you to Kesha Waters.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I first became connected to CASA in 2012 when I joined the Board of Directors. At the time, I knew very little about nonprofits and even less about CASA’s work. I had actually been approached about becoming a CASA volunteer, but once I learned more about the role, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me at that moment. Still, I was deeply drawn to the mission and wanted to be involved in a meaningful way, which is how I found myself on the board.
About two years into my board service, our Executive Director left for another opportunity and encouraged me to apply for the position. I took a leap and applied. I completely flopped the first interview but redeemed myself in the second. In the end, the board selected another candidate with more nonprofit experience but when that hire didn’t work out, they came back to me about six weeks later and offered me the role.
I was terrified. I truly had no idea what I was doing, but I knew one thing: I was not going to fail. Ten years later, I’m still here, and I’m grateful every day that I took that chance. CASA’s mission, our volunteers, and the children we serve have shaped me in ways I never could have imagined.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, and one of the toughest challenges for me personally was dealing with imposter syndrome. When I first became Executive Director, I was learning everything on the fly, nonprofit management, fundraising, grant writing, budgeting, and supporting volunteers doing emotionally demanding work. There were many days when I questioned whether I was truly capable of leading the organization.
Other challenges included balancing limited resources with enormous needs. CASA work is critical but demanding, and ensuring volunteers and staff had the support they needed required constant creativity and perseverance. Emotional resilience was also a major hurdle. We work with some of the hardest stories imaginable, and learning how to carry that weight without burning out has been an ongoing process.
Despite the struggles, every challenge has reinforced why this work matters. Each child who finds safety, stability, or a voice because of a CASA volunteer makes every obstacle worth navigating. And while imposter syndrome still occasionally visits, I’ve learned to lean on my team, trust in my abilities, and focus on the mission, and that has made all the difference.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I lead CASA of the Tennessee Heartland, a nonprofit that trains and supports volunteers to advocate for children in foster care who have experienced abuse or neglect. What drives me every day is helping build a community of caring adults who step into a child’s life during their most challenging moments, providing consistency, support, and someone who truly listens.
I’m most proud of the relationships we’ve built with our volunteers, staff, and the children we serve, and the real, lasting difference we make together. What sets me apart is my focus on nurturing people: I’m always looking for ways to help volunteers and staff grow, feel supported, and believe in the work they’re doing. I lead with honesty and empathy, and I think that approach allows me to connect with people in a way that brings out their best while keeping the child’s needs at the center of everything we do.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I have been incredibly fortunate to have many mentors, supporters, and cheerleaders along the way. My husband, Sebastian, is my biggest cheerleader, always encouraging me, listening when I’ve doubted myself, and celebrating the successes along the journey. Beyond him, I’ve been blessed to learn from so many people who have offered guidance, shared their experience, and inspired me to keep going when the work has been challenging. From colleagues and board members to volunteers and community partners, each person has contributed in a meaningful way. whether through advice, encouragement, or simply modeling what it means to lead with integrity and compassion.
Above all, the most important lesson has come from my faith in God. I truly believe that if God calls you to something, He will equip and qualify you to do it. That faith has been a constant through both successes and setbacks, giving me the confidence to take risks and the reassurance that I am never alone in the work I do. The people in my life and my faith have been instrumental in shaping not only my success but also the success of the children and families CASA serves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://CASAtnh.org
