Chat with Chad: Every Story Matters — A Partnership Built on Purpose
At CROSS Services, we believe that every story matters. Whether it’s a family walking through our doors for the first time, a volunteer giving their time with compassion, or a partner investing in our mission — every connection carries the potential to change lives.
This month’s Chat with Chad is a powerful reminder of that truth. We sat down with Casey Van Winkle, co-founder of First Class Mortgage, to reflect on a 16-year partnership built on shared values, compassion, and commitment to community.
“We work with people that we can’t offer financing to. And so a big thing I talk about with my staff is… slowing down and having a heart for these people… just instilling hope,” Casey shared. “Every story matters.”
A Partnership Rooted in Empathy
First Class Mortgage first partnered with CROSS Services after the 2008 housing crisis, when Casey saw firsthand how devastating financial instability could be.
“It hurt to hear those stories,” he recalled. “People losing their homes… the ultimate stress it causes for the whole family.”
Casey and his team didn’t want to just empathize — they wanted to act. What started as an idea to help families avoid displacement became the foundation of the Peace of Mind Financial Assistance Fund, a long-standing collaboration that provides critical support to families in crisis.
“To give a donation is one thing,” Casey said, “but to stay committed to it is really a props to our whole staff. It’s a goal that we all share.”
More Than Money — It’s About Dignity
At CROSS Services, dignity is at the heart of everything we do. And it’s clear First Class Mortgage shares that belief.
“When someone tells me their story, I hang onto that,” Casey said. “It unites me with them, and I’m more motivated to go that extra mile.”
That connection — seeing and valuing people as they are — is at the center of our work. It’s why “You Matter Here” isn’t just a phrase — it’s our guiding mantra. It’s a belief that shapes every interaction and aligns with our mission to provide compassionate, dignity-centered support for families in need.
“Once you can relate to somebody,” Casey added, “it’s easy to join forces with them.”
Plant the Seed, Watch It Grow
Over the years, First Class Mortgage’s continued investment has helped hundreds of families stabilize during hardship — and inspired other businesses to join the effort.
“We were maybe the seed that got planted 16 years ago,” Casey said. “But we’re certainly not alone in this. It’s pretty cool to look back and say, I’m part of something that’s really making an impact.”
That’s the power of partnership — and a reminder that anyone can start where they are.
“Start somewhere,” Casey encouraged. “Create that seed, and CROSS will make it grow.”
Let’s Keep Growing Together
Every story matters — and every partnership helps bring those stories to life. Thank you to First Class Mortgage for your continued support, and for showing us what it looks like when a business leads with heart.
If you’re a business looking to make a difference, let’s talk about how your story can become part of something bigger. Book a time with Amy Gale Maloney, Director of Development to start the conversation.
Because at CROSS Services, You Matter Here.
