Embraced by the Community: Kalea’s Journey Toward Success

For many college students, the path to a degree is shaped by long nights and hard work. For Kalea Barnes, however, that journey began long before she set foot on a college campus. With early support from a strong community of supporters, the foundation for her success was built brick by brick, relationship by relationship. We are excited to introduce Kalea Barnes and share her story in her own words.

Dear Communities In Schools family,

When I sit down and think about what helped shape me the most growing up, my mind doesn’t go straight to lessons or report cards, it’s the people who showed up, time and time again, simply because they cared. I can picture one afternoon. I was sitting at a desk, frustrated with a math worksheet that just didn’t make sense. Everyone else finished and I felt that lump of defeat in my chest. My CIS site coordinator noticed and sat down next to me. She didn’t rush me or make me feel behind. Instead, she patiently helped me work through each problem, cheering me on when I got one right. When I finally finished, she said, “See? You’ve got this, I’ll be here if you need more assistance.” I’ll never forget that. That small moment taught me that belief from others can help me find belief in myself.

That’s what Communities In Schools was for me – a constant, steady reminder that I mattered. From those early days all the way through graduation, CIS was like a thread running through my life, connecting one stage to the next. It wasn’t just a place to do homework or hang out after class; it was a community that made me feel seen. The coordinators and staff weren’t there just to help me get through school; they were there to help me grow through it. 

As I got older, the lessons I learned with my coordinator started to shift. It wasn’t just about encouragement anymore; it became about trust, responsibility, and learning how to follow through. The people around me started challenging me in the best ways, helping me set goals and stick to them. They didn’t just tell me what I could do; they showed me how to get there. I then began to understand that real support isn’t about doing things for you, it’s about walking with you while you figure it all out. And as graduation got closer, the conversations changed again. They became discussions about life, college, purpose, and what comes next after graduation. There were afternoons filled with planning and dreaming, and moments of uncertainty where I would be reminded that it was okay to not have it all figured out yet. CIS became a place where I learned to think beyond the present moment but to see a future that felt real and attainable. Now, as an alum, I carry those lessons with me every day. The same encouragement, accountability, and care that were once given to me have helped shape how I move through the world. I’ve learned that the smallest acts of consistency such as kind words, patient listening, and a gentle nudge forward can make a huge difference. Because that’s what CIS does. It changes lives not just through grand gestures, but through genuine relationships built one moment at a time.

To the students who are part of CIS right now, hold on to this community. You are surrounded by people who see your potential, even on the days you can’t see it yourself. They’re helping you build your long-term future goals. Alongside my coordinator at CIS, I was also supported by many individuals, organizations and programs, including Merze Tate Explorers, my mentor Nicole Parker at Sisters in Business, Big Brothers Big Sisters, KRESA Culinary Arts Chef Kharen and Chef Hayley, and many others. I was surrounded by people who cared about my education, my well-being, and my future.

Above all, none of this would be possible without my mom, Kalinda Williams. She was my constant support long before I understood what support really meant. She advocated for me when I couldn’t advocate for myself, checked in on me even when I said I was “fine,” and made sure I never walked through challenges alone. She believed in my potential on the days I doubted it and reminded me of my strength when I felt tired or discouraged. Her love, sacrifice, and unwavering presence are the foundation beneath every milestone I reach. I carry her lessons with me in everything I do, and I am endlessly grateful for the role she has played in shaping who I am today.

What began as simple encouragement during my school years has shaped the direction of my life. I am finishing up my college journey, building and running my own small business, and proudly serving my country in the Army. Beyond my personal goals, I remain deeply involved in my community, giving back in the same ways others once poured into me. In a true full-circle moment, I am now in my second year as an intern with the same nonprofit organization that supported me throughout my educational journey. CIS helped shape not just what I do, but who I am: someone who follows through, leads with purpose, and believes in the power of showing up for others. The support I received growing up laid the groundwork for a life rooted in service, accountability, and growth.

What you do doesn’t fade after graduation; it carries over into every choice, every goal, and every dream we continue to chase.

Sincerely,

Kalea Barnes

Tags: CIS Alumni, Communities In Schools of Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo Public Schools, Kalea Barnes