25 Years of Advocacy: Court, Community Celebrates Retirement of Longtime Greene Co. Program Director Greta McKenzie
After 25 years of dedicated service to the Greene County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program, Greta McKenzie was honored at a retirement celebration hosted by the Greene County Juvenile Court.
The event brought together court staff, county commissioners, representatives from Ohio CASA, CASA volunteers, and family members to recognize McKenzie’s extraordinary career of advocacy for children and families in Greene County.
McKenzie began her journey with Greene County CASA in 2000, eventually serving as Program Director, where her leadership and compassion helped strengthen the program’s reach.
“She is such a genuine human being and has had such an impact on the community,” said Juvenile Court Judge Amy Lewis.
Judges, court staff, and CASA volunteers shared their appreciation for McKenzie at the celebration. Several CASA volunteers who had since moved out of state returned to Greene County to join in the celebration — a reflection of Greta’s influence and strong relationships.
McKenzie has helped 130 children throughout her CASA career, driving around 35,000 miles. Court staff also shared that through the program’s existence, it has saved the county more than $5 million dollars.
“It is amazing what you have done. You cannot build a program with so many good people without love and dedication, and I want to thank you for what you have provided to the county,” said Judge Adolfo Tornichio, who previously presided over the juvenile court.
Greene County Commissioners presented McKenzie with a resolution marking her 25 years of service.
“Greta is so important to the Ohio CASA Network as a whole. She has made a huge positive impact across Ohio, helping other directors and sharing best practices and guidance,” said Ohio CASA/GAL Association Director Doug Stephens.
McKenzie served on the Ohio CASA Board of Directors for multiple years, lending her time and expertise to the state network.
The Greene County CASA program is part of a statewide network of CASA programs serving 61 Ohio counties. CASA volunteers are trained community members appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interest of children experiencing abuse or neglect.
McKenzie told the crowd that the children and families are closest to her heart. She plans to continue her connection to the program by serving as a CASA volunteer.
The Ohio CASA Network congratulates McKenzie on her 25 years of service and steadfast belief in the power of advocacy to change children’s lives.
Interested in making a difference? Greene County CASA is always seeking caring, committed adults to serve as volunteer advocates for local children. Follow the links to learn more about how you can get involved in Greene County or across Ohio.