Summer 2025: CASA volunteers and local programs in the news

The Ohio CASA Network made headlines when it stepped up to the plate in the summer of 2025.

The partnership between the family members of the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds batted cleanup for Ohio CASA by putting on a series of fundraisers to benefit the network, culminating in a charity softball game.

Jordyn Pagán, wife of Reds pitcher Emilio Pagán, told MLB.com the effort is an idea she had years ago that got expanded after being put in touch with Samantha Kwan, wife of Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan.

“We wanted to find a charity that was both in Cleveland and Cincinnati, so when we started looking, Samantha was able to find CASA and we loved what they were doing for foster kids and the community,” Pagán told MLB.com. “It was awesome to collaborate with Samantha and the Guardians’ wives to raise money for CASA. We were also able to collaborate with some other companies, and they each donated a portion of their proceeds to CASA as well!”

Ultimately, it was a win for everyone as the groups raised a combined $18,500 for Ohio CASA and its local programs. Pagán said they’re looking forward to continuing the partnership and making this an annual event.

Learn more about the partnership’s impact:

Ohio CASA’s biggest annual event saw record-breaking turnout and significant coverage.

The 30th Annual Celebrate Kids! Conference welcomed nearly 700 attendees who gathered in Downtown Columbus for three days of training sessions and networking events.

WSYX ABC 6, WTTE Fox 28, and The CW Columbus attended the first day, speaking with program leaders and CASA volunteers about the importance of advocating for children experiencing abuse and neglect.

“Kids need someone not only to feel safe, but to make sure they’re taken care of — someone they can trust to talk to on a regular basis,” Madison County CASA volunteer Austin Hill said. “We can all look back on our lives and see someone who invested in us, just by listening and understanding our story.”

On day two of CK!C, nationally known author, advocate, and abduction survivor Elizabeth Smart shared her inspiring story of survival and overcoming trauma, emphasizing the power of hope.

WBNS 10TV provided live coverage after speaking with Smart about her message.

“Bad things happen to us all,” Smart said. “Every one of us has a story and I just want survivors to know that this doesn’t have to define them for the rest of their life.”

10TV also spoke with Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens about the importance of training CASA volunteers and the complexity of child abuse cases.

Summit County CASA Program Director Beth Cardina received honors for her work. Akron Children’s Hospital gave her the Trailblazer Award as part of their inaugural “More childhood, please. Awards.” Cardina has devoted nearly 40 years to advocating for children.

Cardina and Summit County CASA Training Coordinator Sarah Harvan each appeared for interviews on WAOH TV. Cardina spread the word about the CASA/GAL program and urged others to get involved, while Harvan spoke about what it takes to become a CASA volunteer.

CASA of Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties was also featured on the airwaves. Assistant Director Michelle Hess and Program Assistant Abby Needles stopped by WTTF to talk about CASA volunteer training and other events.

Lucas County CASA hosted a video watch party and volunteer launch. The “Every Hero Needs a Team” campaign got covered by The Toledo Blade. It’s part of the program’s new effort to highlight the role CASA volunteers play in advocating for the best interest of children, ensuring they have a safe and permanent home.

CASA of Miami County is preparing to move into a new home. The program is moving into the Hobart Building in Troy.

The program’s Executive Director Nikki Scherck spoke to Miami Valley Today, saying they need more space because of an increase in CASA volunteers. Scherck said they want their new location to be welcoming and expect to be moved in by the end of November.

CASA of Medina County moved forward this summer after being granted full approval and completing the new program membership process. Medina Gazette highlighted the launch and the hiring of its first program director.

“I am excited to bring my skills and vision to founding Medina County’s first-ever CASA program,” Director Erin Grohe told Cleveland.com. “I have witnessed the impact CASA volunteers make in the lives of children who have experienced abuse and neglect. I look forward to serving the children and families of Medina County.”

Grohe said the program is in the process of recruiting and training CASA volunteers.

Other recruiting efforts and new CASA volunteers also found themselves in headlines.

CASA of Allen & Putnam Counties Director Zach Reneau spoke with WLIO Hometown Stations about looking for local volunteers. BG Independent News and The Register-Herald covered the newest classes of CASA volunteers sworn in across Wood County and Preble County respectively.

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