Ohio’s Second Lady Tina Husted throws out first pitch at Cleveland Guardians game on behalf of CASA

Husted, an Ohio CASA Board member, threw pitch to spread awareness about volunteers during “CASA Day” game at Progressive Field

Tina Husted, Ohio CASA Board Member and Ohio’s Second Lady, threw out the first pitch at the Cleveland Guardians winning game June 20th on behalf of Ohio CASA.

Husted was joined on the field by the Guardians and her family, including Lt. Governor Jon Husted and their daughter, Katie.

“It was an honor to throw out the first pitch at Progressive Field surrounded by the team, my family, friends, CASA supporters, and CASA volunteers,” said Tina Husted. “I hope efforts like this continue to raise awareness about the need for more CASA volunteers in Ohio.”

CASA Day at the Guardians is part of the Ohio CASA/GAL Association’s “CASA at the Ballpark” summer campaign.

Ohio CASA is working with baseball teams across Ohio, including the Cincinnati Reds, Dayton Dragons and Toledo Mud Hens, to host “CASA Day” games. Each game highlights CASA volunteers in different ways.

This is part of an effort to show appreciation for CASA volunteers and staff, and spread the word about CASA with the community.

“CASA volunteers are dedicated to advocating for Ohio children who need it the most. These are children experiencing abuse and neglect,” said Husted. “From my years on the Ohio CASA board, I have witnessed firsthand how these volunteers make a positive impact in our communities.”

CASA programs from across the state are gathering at each game. Volunteers and supporters from at least 16 different counties attended the Thursday game wearing blue CASA t-shirts.

“It has been encouraging to not only see a big turnout at these events, but to witness the work of CASA volunteers being highlighted on a large scale,” said Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens. “There is always a need for more CASA volunteers. We appreciate Tina’s efforts to share the word about CASA.”

CASA volunteers were also welcomed to Progressive Field with a message on the scoreboard. Throughout the game, volunteers and supporters were shown on the big screen.

Two members of the CASA for Kids of Geauga County program held the finish line during the on-field condiment race.

During the CASA Day at the Cincinnati Reds event, two Warren County CASA volunteers were honored on the field as they delivered the game ball.

CASA volunteers currently advocate in court for children experiencing abuse and neglect in 60 Ohio counties. The first CASA program in Ohio was launched in Lucas County in 1980.

You can learn more about CASA and support our work here.