Doug Pritchard and wife Cynthia at Lone Star CASA’s Volunteer Appreciation Banquet in 2024
ROCKWALL, TX (Oct. 29, 2026) — After 17 years of advocating for children and youth in foster care, longtime Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Doug Pritchard is retiring from Lone Star CASA this September.
For nearly two decades, Doug has been a steady presence for children who have experienced abuse and neglect, making sure their needs and best interests are heard throughout the child welfare process.
In 2009, he began volunteering with Lone Star CASA, which serves children and youth in Rockwall and Kaufman Counties. In 2018, he also began serving with CASA for Hunt County. Across both organizations, Doug has advocated for more than 20 cases, including cases involving sibling groups. Doug consistently stepped up to advocate for children with the most complex needs and challenging circumstances, ensuring they had someone in their corner when they needed it most.
Over the years, Doug has witnessed children face some of the most difficult circumstances of their lives. He has also had the opportunity to see children overcome those challenges and move toward brighter futures.
One case demonstrates the difference his persistence could make.
Doug’s first case and one of the most meaningful to him involved a 13-year-old boy named David who had experienced significant instability and hardship. Doug remained a steady presence in David’s life, serving as his CASA Volunteer Advocate until he turned 18. Over the years, they’ve stayed in touch, sharing life updates and continuing to build on the bond they formed. David discovered a talent for restoring cars, a passion that has become a meaningful point of connection between them. Their enduring relationship is a testament to the lasting impact of showing up for a child, not just in the moments when they need support most, but throughout the journey that follows.
“It has been absolutely amazing to be part of the lives of children who have been removed from their home and placed in foster care to then witness their transformation,” Doug said. “Many children came from difficult backgrounds, and seeing positive results for them is what kept me advocating for so long.”
Doug’s 17 years of service demonstrate the impact a dedicated volunteer advocate can have in the life of a child. Through his consistency and commitment, he has helped ensure that a child’s best interests are forefront during some of the most uncertain periods of their lives.
“Doug has been a constant presence for children,” said Jacob Griffin, Executive Director of Lone Star CASA. “We are immensely grateful for Doug’s 17 years of service, and we hope his legacy inspires others to step forward and advocate for children in their community.”
Lone Star CASA thanks Doug for his years of service and the countless hours he has dedicated to advocating for children and helping them move toward safe, stable, and positive futures.
About Lone Star CASA
Founded in 1992, Lone Star CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) advocates for children and youth in Rockwall and Kaufman Counties by empowering trained volunteers to amplify their voices, partner with families, and promote safety, stability, and positive futures.
To learn more about Lone Star CASA and how you can become a CASA Volunteer Advocate, visit www.lonestarcasa.org.
Submitted press release, Lone Star CASA, Mariela Lomeli, Marketing Specialist
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