Meet Kasey Wilson

We were lucky to catch up with Kasey Wilson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kasey, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.

You know, my optimism is really a reflection of both my parents. My dad, a hardworking contractor, always found a positive angle, no matter how tough things got. Once as a kid I wrecked my scooter going to the dentist between football practices and was worried my dad would be upset—he just told me, “It’s just metal and plastic. You’re what matters.” That moment showed me that what’s truly valuable is staying positive about the things that really count—people, resilience, and perspective. For my mom who helped me with so many of my own personal battles, was this constant source of encouragement, always believing we’d get through whatever came my way. They both taught me that even when life doesn’t go as planned, keeping a positive outlook can make all the difference.

I also learned this idea about optimism firsthand from something I heard about Michael Jordan. Someone once told me that he would envision his basketball shots going through the hoop before he even took them. I decided to try that myself. Now, I’m definitely not the best basketball player, but when I pictured the ball going in, I really did notice I made more shots. And that taught me something important: life works the same way. If you envision a positive outcome, you’re more likely to create one.

When I was first chosen to lead Hope Campus, the organization was facing possible closure. It was one of the toughest moments of my adult life. Even so, I kept a positive outlook and had a deep feeling that we would be okay. We’ve come a long way since then, and it really wasn’t that long ago. Facing the possibility of dissolving as an organization could have knocked me down, but instead it pushed me to stay focused, stay hopeful, and keep moving forward.

So when I think about where my optimism comes from, it’s a mix of my parents’ influence and that lesson I learned from imagining those basketball shots. It’s about focusing on the good, envisioning success, and knowing that a positive outlook can truly shape your reality.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

So, a big part of what I do is connected to our nonprofit’s mission, which is focused on addressing homelessness and supporting folks who are often unseen. I’m a licensed alcohol and drug counselor and a certified substance abuse professional here in Arkansas. My focus really comes from my own story. I wasn’t necessarily homeless, but my path wasn’t easy. I didn’t go back to college until I was 28, and even then, I had to work on my math scores just to get admitted. I went through our local adult education center and took extra classes to raise those scores and move forward.. Eventually, I graduated from John Brown University, and now I’m close to finishing my Master’s in Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan.

In terms of what’s exciting or special about our work, it’s the impact we get to make. Last year we launched a peer support program for those struggling with substance use, and I’m especially proud of the pavilion we got set up. The city donated the metal and we had to work hard to get it here, and it’s become a safe spot for folks dealing with mental health challenges so they can get out of the elements. We see ourselves as a launching pad, helping people find stability through case management. We then assist them with housing, in a more permanent enviroment somewhere or work towards getting them into treatment, and move forward on their journeys. This truly is a special place.

And while I can’t share all the details yet, we’ve got some really exciting things on the horizon at Hope Campus. It’s a great time for us, and I’m thrilled about the direction we’re heading.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

When I look back on my journey, I’d say there were three key qualities that really made a difference. First is resilience. There were plenty of times when I felt like my plate was overflowing, but I learned to just take one more step forward and remember that “this too shall pass.” Every tough season eventually gives way to a new one, and that mindset kept me going.

Second is empathy. I truly couldn’t do what I do without feeling for the people I serve. I laugh with them, I cry with them, and I really try to understand their experiences. That genuine empathy is at the heart of everything I do.

And third is professionalism — asking myself whether my next response reflects the role I’m in and whether I’m handling the situation the way a professional should. Basically, if you want to be the CEO, act like as the CEO would.

For those just starting out, I’d say focus on building resilience by reminding yourself that tough times are temporary. Cultivate empathy by really listening to and connecting with the people you serve. And work on professionalism by treating your role with the respect it deserves. Each of these qualities will help you go far.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am always looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations that have resources, skills, or a desire to help. I have ideas and practical solutions that can address real problems in our local community, across our state, and even nationally, but meaningful change only happens when people are willing to work together.

If you’re interested in getting involved or exploring ways to collaborate, you can reach out to me directly. I’m always open to conversations about how we can make a difference. You can call or text me at 479-926-5273 or email [email protected]
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If you’d like to support our nonprofit financially, you can also donate by clicking the Donate Now tab on our website at riverviewhopecampus.org.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hopecampus.networkforgood.com/projects/107349-main-giving-page
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverviewHopeCampus/

Image Credits

Patrick Marris is the gentlman in the picture with just himself and me with the check.

Forefront Church and Arkansas Refriderated Services is who helped in the picture of the pavilion