Lone Star CASA celebrates 25 years, honors volunteers

(ROCKWALL, TX — May 15, 2017) Lone Star CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) recently recognized 25 years of advocacy for the children of Rockwall and Kaufman Counties at the Volunteer Appreciation Banquet held at Hidden Creek in Heath. During these 25 years, CASA volunteers have devoted many hours, driven many miles, and found themselves in some unique, yet rewarding, situations. CASA advocates have touched, and in most cases changed, the lives of more than 700 children. Our goal continues to be to provide an advocate for each child in need in Rockwall and Kaufman counties.

Board President Amanda Fowler recognized the current board and staff. Executive Director Lucille Bell recognized former board members and staff and expressed appreciation for their awareness of the need for CASA 25 years ago and for their continued support. She recognized two members for the Board Member of the Year Award, Laurie Coles and Leanne Day.

The speaker for the evening, Jackie Davis, shared his inspirational story and the role his CASA volunteer had in shaping his life. He entered foster care at 18 months old. After traumatic transitions and abuse and a failed adoption, he had a successful adoption when he was 13. A recent graduate of the University of North Texas, he is a co-founder of an organization called Persevere Until Success Happens (PUSH) and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work while working at Dallas CASA.

Program Director Vickie Nettleton and Casework Supervisors Mary Duffey, Melissa Fox, and Betty Shupp recognized volunteers for their years of service as a volunteer. Three advocates were recognized as Volunteer of the Year: Janet Catlin, Sandy Daniel, and Mary Myers. The Above and Beyond Award was given to Nancy Mills for her continued dedication to her CASA children.

Lone Star CASA appreciates our sponsors for the event: Silver Sponsors: Re/Max Landmark and Wells Fargo; Sterling Sponsor: Toyota of Rockwall; and Dessert Sponsors: Baylor Emergency Medical Center, Budget Blinds; David Couch, Attorney at Law; C&S Brick, Stucco and Stone; Dr. Bart Miller; and Morgan Newton. Special recognition was given to Adfinity; Clayton Howard Designs, Events, and Florals; Titus Sam Photography; and the MetroEast Division of the Dallas Builders Association for their continued support of Cars for CASA scheduled for May 21.

Submitted press release. Photos by Richard Redig, Blue Ribbon News.

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