Mental health advocacy doesn’t always come from professionals in suits or national campaigns. Sometimes, it starts in quiet living rooms, community centers, church halls—or from the hearts of those who have struggled themselves. The I HAVE Challenge Spotlight honors everyday individuals who are making an extraordinary difference. Through their lived experience, advocacy, and passion, they are helping to break stigma, spark hope, and build bridges toward healing.

We see them. We honor them. We shine a light on their stories—because they remind us: we are not alone.

Casandra S. Kates, a native of Telfair County, Georgia, was raised in Clayton County after being uprooted at a young age. For years, she silently battled undiagnosed mental health challenges—until the summer of 2020, when a breaking point became the turning point. From the ashes of that moment, Casandra emerged with a renewed purpose: to become a voice for mental health awareness and an advocate for breaking the stigma that surrounds it.

Through her passionate efforts, Casandra has helped spark a wave of unity in her hometown of McRae, Georgia, working alongside other community advocates to bring resources, hope, and support to those who suffer in silence. Her grassroots platform has become a beacon of encouragement and healing.

When she’s not volunteering or organizing community efforts, Casandra is focused on raising her twin toddlers, nurturing her own healing journey, and growing in her relationship with God.