Fall 2023: Ohio CASA, programs make headlines

Ohio CASA and programs across the state made headlines throughout Fall 2023, sharing program updates, volunteer stories and details about work to advocate for children in need.

Click on the links included in this article to read the full stories about CASA volunteers, local program efforts and Ohio CASA trainings.

Ohio CASA’s 28th Annual Celebrate Kids! Conference brought together hundreds of CASA volunteers, program directors, judges and attorneys. The conference provides essential training sessions, an effort that was featured in multiple stories, like from 10TV in Columbus, ABC6 TV in Columbus and NBC4 in Columbus.

Multiple CASA volunteers and supporters were honored during the conference. Rising Star Volunteer award winner Christina Miller has dedicated multiple hours to serving children with the Meigs-Gallia CASA program.

“It is an honor to get this award and advocate for children,” said Miller. “I volunteer with CASA to be a voice for children who need it most. I want their thoughts and feelings to be heard in the court room.”

Pro Star Volunteer award winner Tim Miller uses his ability to speak multiple languages to advocate for the best interest of children with the CASA of Allen and Putnam Counties Program.

“I wanted to be a CASA volunteer to make a difference in the lives of children…When I found out so many children need help, the motivation was there to just move in and do something,” said Dr. White.

Programs from across the state attended the conference. The Clinton County, Preble County, and Wood County CASA programs were featured for example in multiple news articles.

There was news coverage surrounding a first-of-its kind study revealing the positive impact of CASA volunteers in Ohio. The report not only shines a light on the experiences of children in foster care, but also shares ways to improve volunteer training.

Multiple programs like Ross County CASA and Columbiana County CASA, for example, shared their efforts to connect with the community and bring in new volunteers.

Ohio CASA Communications Director Haley Nelson Peña and CASA of Lucas County volunteer Julie spoke with WTOL 11 in Toledo about the impact of CASA volunteers.

“My career was a pediatric and neonatal nurse, and I just felt like I wanted to take my involvement and advocacy for kids to a higher level,” said Julie during the live interview.

The CASA of Cuyahoga County team shared with WKYC TV how they work to support children experiencing abuse and neglect.

“I think when teens know that someone is in their corner and is willing to be their advocate and be an example for them…I think that makes all the difference in the world for our teenagers,” said Executive Director Tricia Kuivinen. 

Many programs swore in new volunteers like CASA of Allen and Putnam Counties, and other programs like CASA of Lucas County honored CASA volunteers for their dedication.

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