Meet Kathy Shirilla

I was born and raised in Southern California. My parents had just purchased their first home when I came along. We lived amidst the orange groves. I believe we were one of the first homes built in the area.

Kathy with her daughter, Katie

I had wonderful parents along with an older brother and sister and a younger brother. I was my father’s daughter who would follow him everywhere. He loved to garden and I learned all his techniques. We would spend hours out in the yard. He also loved to golf, so I took up golf.

My mother was an excellent cook but I preferred to be outdoors. Perhaps this is why I continue to struggle with cooking but I sure can barbeque. My father taught me to drive in the bean fields. Not long after, the orange groves disappeared as did the bean fields.

I attended school in Orange County. After I finished school, I began my social services career in 1974 with the Orange County Social and Human Services. We were a small office located below a methadone clinic. I served a variety of clients and I worked with all ages. I found that this was both rewarding and challenging at the same time. I really found my true career path.

Our little family moved to beautiful Southern Oregon in the small town of Brookings on the coast. I began with the state working at the CSO office. I really learned about poverty and the plight of those in need. I can remember that many folks camped out because they could not find affordable housing. I would do home visits back in the woods and up the river. My directions included counting downed trees and following the river’s edge. You know, turn left at the fourth downed tree go right where the path forks. There was never a dull moment.

When we moved to Vancouver, I had noticed an article in the newspaper a story about the CASA Program. I was taken in by the service the program provided.

I began volunteering in 1995. I find that this work is the most difficult, but most rewarding work I have ever attempted. I find many disappointments along the way but when I see the changes I can make in a child’s life, I feel so encouraged to keep doing this work.

I was hired as a case manager in 1999 and took in all the new cases until funds ran out in 2001. In 2002, I was again rehired as a program specialist. Not only do I get the opportunity to help our most vulnerable children but I also get to meet and work with the most giving and fabulous people. Our volunteers are a great joy. I like the teaching but more, I love watching the CASA volunteers grow and feel that satisfaction they can get when they have succeed in helping these children.

Outside of work I still golf and garden. I also have good times with the many friends I have made since working at the YWCA. Both my children have graduated college and have moved away. We are still very close and enjoy the all times we get together.