Lucas County CASA volunteer delivers official Toledo Mud Hens game ball at “CASA Day”
Volunteers, supporters from 10+ counties gather for special game highlighting CASA
A long-time Lucas County CASA volunteer delivered the official Toledo Mud Hens game ball, one of many special features during Ohio CASA’s “CASA Day” game on July 27th.
Maria Gonzalez has been a Lucas County CASA volunteer for 22 years.
In that time, she has served 30 families and advocated for 69 children experiencing abuse and neglect. Gonzalez is bilingual and uses her language skills to advocate for children.
On Saturday night, her dedication and information about CASA was shared with the crowd at Fifth Third Field in Downtown Toledo as she “pitched in” by delivering the game ball.
“This was such a special moment for me and my family,” said Gonzalez. “CASA volunteer work has been a major part of my life, and I hope we were able to share the word with even more community members.”
Gonzalez is also a prior “Pro Star Volunteer of the Year” award winner at Ohio CASA’s annual Celebrate Kids! Conference.
A group of 200-plus CASA volunteers and supporters from across Northwest Ohio were highlighted throughout the Mud Hen’s victory.
The group took part in a pre-game parade on the field, coming together and waving to the crowd as information was shared about CASA.
CASA volunteers were welcomed to the Ballpark and shown on the video scoreboard multiple times, plus a CASA informational video was shared.
The family of a Lucas County CASA volunteer also got to announce: “Play Ball”!
CASA Day at the Toledo Mud Hens wraps up Ohio CASA’s summer 2024 “CASA at the Ballpark” campaign.
Ohio CASA has worked with baseball teams across Ohio to host “CASA Day” games throughout the summer to show appreciation for volunteers and spread the word about CASA.
CASA volunteers also came together at a Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians and Dayton Dragons game.
“Maria did a wonderful job representing CASA volunteers. Her dedication from over 20 years is so inspiring and I hope it encourages others to think about becoming a CASA volunteer. There is always a need in our community and across the state,” said Andrea De la Roca, Lucas County CASA Community Engagement and Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator.
There are 47 CASA programs that serve children in need in 60 Ohio counties.
CASA volunteers are community members of all walks of life. After comprehensive training, they advocate in court for children who experience abuse and neglect.
If you are interested in learning more about CASA volunteer work, you can learn more here.