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“The chicken is a vehicle to grow people and communities, and to show them care.”
Kasi Corbett grew up in a small, close-knit California community, where Sunday potluck dinners at the local community center brought neighbors together like family. Her upbringing has instilled in her a deep appreciation for tradition, hard work and the importance of creating welcoming spaces within her community.
As a local Chick-fil-A® Owner-Operator, Kasi strives to bring these values to her new Restaurant in Oregon, Chick-fil-A I-5 at Woodburn – a place that she invites others to embrace as a home away from home. This desire stems from her own journey and challenges she had to overcome earlier in life.
Small Town Ties
Kasi spent her youth in the town of Green Valley, California. With one paved road, one small community church and one convenience store for all necessities, neighbors became family, always supporting one another.
While her childhood was filled with idyllic, fond memories, her teenage years and young adult life brought new challenges. At age 16, Kasi took up a job working the late-night shift at a diner to help support her family while still attending school during the day. She experienced homelessness during her late teenage years, and eventually had to drop out of high school to work full-time to make ends meet. She had the courage and determination to persevere through this hardship, earning her GED and eventually enrolling in community college.
“When I started going to community college, that was a turning point in my life,” Kasi said. “I became a life-long believer in education. I truly believe that education is the path to changing generational histories.”
Kasi’s experience at Los Angeles Pierce College opened doors to opportunities that she’d never imagined were possible. She received her Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from California State University, Northridge, serving as an accountant in both public and private sectors throughout her 20s. Looking to serve in a greater capacity, she pivoted careers, dedicating nearly two decades working in public safety. As a lifelong learner, Kasi continued her educational journey, later obtaining her Master of Public Administration from Columbia Southern University.
Commitment to Service and Mentorship
Kasi’s college experience sparked a passion for mentorship, as she saw the impact of guidance on shaping young futures. Inspired by her own mentors, she actively pursued ways to support others throughout her career.
As leader of the Youth Explorer Program during her career in public safety, Kasi mentored young adults from underserved communities, building their confidence and direction. Later, she began teaching, first volunteering at the police academy, and eventually becoming a part-time adjunct professor.
“One of my great passions is providing safety, security and growth opportunities for young adults. It feeds my soul,” Kasi said. “I’ve found that my purpose in life comes from doing something to improve someone else’s life.”
She feels deeply grateful for her family’s unwavering support and faith in her dreams. She takes pride in the example she set for her kids, who watched her persevere in pursuit of her passions and goals.
Pursuing Her Own Business
After nearly two decades in public safety, Kasi started thinking about what would come next in her career. A conversation with her friend Cameron Goettsche, the local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A Dexter Avenue in Lake Elsinore, California, sparked her interest in Chick-fil-A – a brand she knew little about from her time on the West Coast.
However, the more she learned about Chick-fil-A, its mission and its history, she realized that it aligned perfectly with her passions and interests.
“It’s not about the chicken,” Kasi said. “The chicken is a vehicle to grow people and communities, and to show them care.”
With her Restaurant opening in late 2024, Kasi is eager to become a steward of the brand and give back to her community.
Strengthening Her Community
As a local Owner-Operator, Kasi is committed to serving her community, both inside her Restaurant and beyond its walls. Inspired by the transformative role education has played in her own life, she plans to engage actively with local schools and nominate her Team Members for the Chick-fil-A Remarkable Futures™ scholarship program. Her goal is to be a resource where young adults can find mentorship, guidance and job opportunities, helping them shape their own paths forward.
In addition, Kasi is set to participate in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® program, collaborating closely with local food banks to address hunger and food insecurity in the area. By meeting with food bank directors, she hopes to create meaningful partnerships that maximize her Restaurant's impact on the community.
“I believe that we rise by lifting others,” Kasi said. “It’s important to approach every day with humility, seeing each situation as a chance to learn, while showing others grace and patience along the way.”
Above all, Kasi is committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment in her Restaurant.
“Inside those four walls, I want everyone to feel cared for, no matter what,” Kasi said. “My goal is to make sure they know there’s a team here that genuinely supports their well-being.”