Rivalry for a Reason—THANK YOU for making a difference!

As I reflect on this past month, my heart is full of gratitude. Our Rivalry for a Reason golf event was an overwhelming success, and that is because of you—our friends, partners, and supporters. Your generosity of resources, time, and heart will have a direct impact on our students that extends far beyond a single day on the course. Every swing, sponsorship, and conversation is helping shape opportunities and open doors for young people in our community.

It has also been such a joy to step back into our classrooms with students this fall. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing firsthand the difference CAST is making in their lives—through relationships, encouragement, and the hope of what’s possible.

Thank you for believing in this mission and in our students. Together, we are making a lasting difference.

With gratitude,

Sonja White

Executive Director

Rivalry For A Reason

This year's annual golf fundraiser truly exceeded expectations. The day beautifully merged CAST tradition with fresh, new ideas, creating an evening filled with spirited competition and heartwarming generosity. We are profoundly grateful to every participant, donor, and volunteer who showed up, in full swing, to support our students and mission.

Congratulations to Brookside Country Club, the winners of the inaugural CAST "Rivalry for a Reason Cup"! The competition was fierce, and we are already counting down the days until next year's event to see who will be crowned champion.

CAST is redefining "Fun Friday" at McGreggor Elementary!

This year, CAST is thrilled to be working with a small group of students during the school day. We started by decorating "thank you" bags for Habitat for Humanity volunteers, and we're currently moving on to making encouragement bracelets for friends at The Total Living Center. It’s a wonderful way for students to get creative while making a tangible, positive difference in someone else’s life.

3rd Annual Lock In!

Preregistration is live on our website for this year’s lock in! If you have a 9th-12th grader who is interested in joining us for an evening of fun, please use the button below to let us know they’d like to come!

Lock In Preregistration!

Zariyah Fun Facts!

Favorite Drinks: Water and smoothies

Favorite class: Biology

Dream Vacation Spot: Rio De Janeiro

One word to describe yourself: Determined

Zariyah is a student who consistently makes us proud! Her heart and commitment to CAST is like no other. Zariyah currently holds the record of most student CAST volunteer hours, averaging over 100 hours a school year.

Celebrating our Students!

We are so proud to highlight Zariyah Williams, a standout senior at Early College High School and one of CAST’s co-presidents. Zariyah is a shining example of leadership and service—both inside and outside the classroom. From the tennis courts to the classroom, she pours her energy into making a difference.

Her list of accomplishments is nothing short of inspiring: President of Student Government, NHS President, CAMP participant, McKinley Scholars member, Debutante, and CAST co-president—all while excelling academically and athletically.

What makes Zariyah truly special, though, is her heart. She is known for her caring attitude and her desire to brighten the lives of those around her. When reflecting on her service with CAST, Zariyah shared:

“I have learned that I truly enjoy connecting with people and that I feel happiest when I am making someone else’s day better.”

When asked why she serves, her response was simple yet powerful:

“I believe everyone deserves kindness, and it feels good to give back to my community.”

After graduation, Zariyah plans to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian in the Army—a path that perfectly reflects her compassion, drive, and commitment to serving others.

Zariyah, we are so grateful for your leadership in CAST and can’t wait to see all the incredible ways you’ll impact the world.

Serve alongside the CASTkids!