From left: Jacob Griffin, Peggy Starnes, Judge Brett Hall, Marnie McDorman, Cynthia Yanez, and Danielle Key at the September 29 swear in ceremony at Rockwall County Courthouse.
Rockwall, Texas – (October 2026) – Lone Star CASA welcomed seven new Volunteer Advocates during two recent swear-in ceremonies at the Rockwall County Courthouse, officially marking the beginning of their service to children and youth involved in the child welfare system.
The Honorable Judge Brett Hall administered the oath during both ceremonies. On September 29, Cynthia Yanez, Danielle Key, Jacob Griffin, Marnie McDorman, and Peggy Starnes were sworn in. On September 30, Kristin Draper and Mahoganie Gaston took the oath and officially joined Lone Star CASA as trained Volunteer Advocates.
These dedicated volunteers will serve children and youth in Rockwall and Kaufman Counties who have experienced abuse or neglect. Each Volunteer Advocate will be assigned to a child or sibling group and will work with children, families, caregivers, and professionals to gather information, understand each child’s needs, and advocate for their best interests.
Lone Star CASA Executive Director Jacob Griffin completed the same Volunteer Advocate training alongside the newest advocates and was sworn in during the September 29 ceremony.
“Going through the training alongside these new advocates gave me an even greater appreciation for the preparation and commitment that goes into becoming a CASA Volunteer Advocate,” said Griffin. “The training equips volunteers with the knowledge and tools they need to step into this role with confidence, but it is the heart they bring to the work that makes the difference for children. It was an honor to learn alongside them and take this step together as advocates for children in our community.”
Community members can make a lasting difference by stepping forward, completing the training, and becoming a consistent voice for a child who needs someone in their corner. Every child deserves an advocate who will listen, speak up, and help ensure their needs are seen.
Lone Star CASA is calling on members of the Rockwall and Kaufman County communities to get involved and become part of the team advocating for children.
About Lone Star CASA
Lone Star CASA is the local Court Appointed Special Advocates program serving children and youth in Rockwall and Kaufman Counties who have experienced abuse or neglect. Trained CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of children involved in the child welfare system. Volunteers build relationships with children, gather information, collaborate with families and professionals, and provide judges with an independent perspective to help inform decisions about a child’s safety, stability, and future.
To learn more about becoming a CASA Volunteer Advocate, visit www.lonestarcasa.org.
Lone Star CASA welcomes seven new volunteer advocates during two swear-in ceremonies added by Editor on
View all posts by Editor →