Spring 2024: Local programs, Ohio CASA in the news
From training new CASA volunteers to hosting community events, CASA programs across Ohio were in the news throughout the Spring season of 2024.
Many programs were featured as they launched new volunteer training classes. For example, the Wood County CASA program reached out to the community.
“Our Wood County CASA/GAL program provides a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children. I would encourage all those who would like a challenging and rewarding volunteer experience to consider becoming a Wood County CASA/GAL,” said Wood County Juvenile Court Judge David E. Woessner, as reported in the BG Independent News.
Summit County CASA and CASA of Cuyahoga County volunteers and staff talked about the need for more volunteers to advocate for children, as reported by Ideastream Public Media.
The CASA team in Cuyahoga County and attorneys also spoke with News 5 about the need for volunteers, and the important impact CASA volunteers have in the community.
“We recruit, train and support volunteers from the community and people from all walks of life to come alongside a child or a youth in foster care and serve as their advocate,” Executive Director Tricia Kuivinen told News 5.
CASA programs in both Shelby and Preble Counties shared information about their efforts during April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month. This is a time that advocates and the community come together to raise awareness and share ways to prevent child abuse.
Pro Kids CASA of Hamilton County held a ribbon cutting ceremony at their new space in Downtown Cincinnati, featured by Local 12 News.
CASA Volunteer Christin Brown-Worthington with Clark County was honored for her service to the community with the “Book of Golden Deeds” award, as documented by the Springfield Exchange Club and Ohio CASA.
Ohio CASA also talked with NBC4 and Stateline reporters about concerns regarding potential cuts to VOCA funding, which many local CASA programs rely on to different extents.
The work of CASA volunteers in Stark and Carroll Counties was highlighted in the Canton Repository.
“There’s a great need. I’ve always been passionate about helping children/teens succeed in life. If I can be one who brings hope into their life — some assurance, even just a smile — I want to do that,” said volunteer Charla Ostergren in the article.
CASA of Lucas County made multiple headlines: from sharing the word about CASA with the community, discussing the current need in Lucas County to hosting an event discussing healthy masculinity and how it can help bring change.
Community efforts connected to CASA were also highlighted, including a Dancing with the Stars event to benefit CASA of Seneca, Sandusky, Wyandot Counties as reported by the Fremont News Messenger, and an award for a community group who shows support for CASA of Northwest Ohio featured in the Village Reporter.
PARACHUTE: Butler County CASA also discussed a charity partnership with an upcoming community event and concert team, as shared by FOX 19.
The CASA program of Allen and Putnam Counties shared resources during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, as reported by Hometown Stations.