Lone Star CASA welcomes new class of volunteers

Lone Star CASA welcomes new class of volunteers

Pictured: Lauri Dodd, Haley McGee, Lezlie Carvell, Barbi Angott, Beau Winkler, Judge Hall, Julie Tanner, Nereida Garcia Price, & Nevine Carlson.

Rockwall, Texas (July 8, 2025) – Honorable Judge Brett Hall officially swore in nine new volunteers during a ceremony held at the Rockwall County Courthouse on Wednesday. Lone Star CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is proud to welcome the newest CASA volunteers to serve children who have experienced abuse and neglect in Kaufman and Rockwall Counties.

CASA volunteers undergo an in-depth 30-hour training program before being appointed to a case by a judge. These committed volunteers will join Lone Star CASA’s mission to advocate for children and families in the foster care system by providing the court with insightful recommendations about the child’s best interests, whether advocating for reunification with their family, placing the child with relatives, or ensuring the child is adopted into a permanent home.

“We are thrilled to welcome this incredible group of new volunteers to the Lone Star CASA family, as the need for CASA has continued to grow this FY by over 15%” said Lauren Rowe, Executive Director of Lone Star CASA. “Each of them brings a deep sense of compassion and commitment, and I have no doubt they will make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families navigating the foster care system in our community.”

CASA is one of the few nonprofits that relies so deeply on volunteers, allowing us to stretch every dollar and multiply our impact. CASA Volunteers are highly trained and undergo an in-depth 30-hour training program before being appointed to a case by a judge. These committed volunteers will join Lone Star CASA’s mission to advocate for children and families in the child welfare system by providing services such as monthly visits, court testimony, collaboration with families and professionals, advocacy in medical, legal, and educational matters, monitoring court-ordered visits, and connecting families to community resources.

CASA needs volunteers above the age of 21 who have a passion for serving children and families in our community.  By becoming a CASA volunteer, you can be the consistent, caring adult a child needs to navigate the challenges ahead and build a brighter future. Join us on our next online info session on July 24 at 6:00 pm and reserve your spot by emailing info@lonestarcasa.org.

Press release submitted by Mariela Lomeli, Lone Star CASA, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. Courtesy photo.