CASA Day in Ohio 2026 Highlights Statewide Support for Children

CASA Day in Ohio 2026 filled the Ohio Statehouse with advocates from across the state, united by one goal — supporting children and strengthening their futures.

On April 28, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers, lawmakers, local CASA programs, supporters, and child welfare professionals gathered for this annual celebration.

The event honors the impact of CASA programs statewide while also highlighting future priorities for the Ohio CASA Network, including continued statewide growth.

CASA Day in Ohio 2026 kicked off with a performance of the National Anthem by fifth grader Ellie Exner.

Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens opened the program, followed by remarks from Ohio CASA Board President Heather Ulrey of Mount Carmel Health System, Portage County Probate-Juvenile Court Judge Patricia Smith, State Senator Hearcel Craig, State Representative Dontavius Jarrells, and CASA of Franklin County volunteer & Board member John Collins.

“This is a time for us to honor the extraordinary work of our dedicated CASA volunteers and programs across the state, connect with our supportive Ohio lawmakers, and reflect on—and shape—the future of CASA volunteer service in Ohio,” said Stephens.

Ulrey highlighted both the reach and the need for continued growth across the network.

“We are proud to say that we serve 61 counties and we reach more than 9,000 children,” Ulrey said. “The Ohio CASA Network and our range of services will only continue to grow, but we need your help because there are thousands of children still out there who need CASA advocates.”

Judge Patricia Smith emphasized the critical role CASA volunteers play within the court system.

“Our focus is always on the best interest of the child, and by working together with our community, we develop stronger relationships based on shared values and common objectives,” said Smith. “In my role as judge, I have come to rely deeply on the thorough reports and thoughtful recommendations provided by our CASA volunteers. CASA volunteers help ensure that every child has a voice.”

Lawmakers also shared their appreciation and support for CASA volunteers. State Senator Hearcel Craig reflected on the impact of those who give their time in service to children across Ohio.

“Today is so heartwarming because you take time to make sure that our children will have not only just the opportunity to survive, but to thrive and succeed and to grow and develop,” Craig said.

State Representative Dontavius Jarrells called CASA volunteers “heroes,” recognizing their role in connecting children and families to critical services and support.

“You are absolutely heroes that these kids have prayed and dreamed for every single day,” Jarrells said. “You all are on the front line. We need your help as legislators, we want to make sure that these children believe that Ohio did not leave them behind and we are going to do it together.”

Both State Senator Craig and State Representative Jarrells presented Ohio CASA with a citation and commendation from their respective legislative chambers—each chamber recognizing Ohio CASA’s impact statewide.

The program also featured a powerful perspective from CASA volunteer John Collins, who shared his personal connection to the work.

“I was a ward of the court myself as a child, and I’ve always felt a pull to give back— to be the person I needed when I was younger,” Collins said. “Ensuring their voices are heard can be incredibly empowering for them, and watching them succeed is truly a privilege.”

CASA programs across Ohio were also able to join the celebration through expanded virtual watch parties, as well as the first-ever public livestream via Facebook Live.

Participating programs included A Child’s Place in Jefferson County, CASA for Kids of Geauga County, The CASA/GAL Program of Summit County, Erie County CASA, Athens County CASA, and the Montgomery County Juvenile Court CASA Program. These watch parties were projected on a large screen inside the Statehouse Rotunda.

If you would like to learn more about the Ohio CASA Network or support our work, please visit the Our Mission section on the Ohio CASA website.