CASA Volunteer Kelly Pack

As a child, Kelly Pack was a “state child” — she was briefly in foster care, then looked after by a relative.

“I know the system can fail people. It failed me,” she said. “That almost cost me my life. So I vowed to never allow that to happen to any child if I could help it.”

Pack’s cousin told her about CASA — a volunteer program that makes it possible for regular people to make a real difference for abused and neglected children. Pack signed up, went through the training, and now she helps children who were in the same situation she was as a child.

“The kids you encounter during your cases are incredible. The resilience in some children just amazes me every day,” Pack said. “The best part of the whole experience is the relationships you make. The relationships with the children; the relationships with the parents; the relationships with the lawyers and judges.”

Every CASA volunteer goes through a 30-hour training class that prepares them to be an advocate. They also get a Volunteer Manager who helps them every step of the way as they visit their child, gather information and write reports.

“My Volunteer Manager is wonderful. Any time I have any questions, she is a phone call away,” Pack said. “CASA is worth your time because it not only helps you learn new skills and helps you build confidence, but it also allows you to change a kid’s life.”

CASA of Lexington Executive Director Melynda Jamison said Pack has advocated for two children since she was sworn in as a CASA volunteer in June 2023.

“Kelly is a fantastic friend and advocate for the children she serves,” Jamison said. “Her lived experience gives her a valuable perspective and makes her even more effective at finding positive outcomes for kids.”

If you would like to make a difference for a child in foster care by serving as a CASA volunteer, visit www.casaoflexington.org to learn more.

Kathy Edwards has advocated for six children during two years as a CASA volunteer

CASA Volunteer Kathy Edwards

Kathy Edwards is the kind of person who understands the value of teamwork. She also likes it when she can make a real difference in the world.

So when Edwards learned from a close friend about just how bad the problem of child abuse and neglect is in Kentucky, she wanted to be part of a team working to make things better.

“Hearing about the sheer volume of neglect and abuse cases was staggering, and the caseload for social workers overwhelming,” she said.

Edwards already knew about the Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program because some of her co-workers were already volunteers through Lexmark’s Volunteer Time Off program. She signed up for CASA training and quickly learned just how effective the CASA program can be.

“As a CASA, I can focus on one case and one outcome. A 10-minute call to the school or doctor’s office can suddenly become the last piece of information needed to set a new course for child’s case,” she said. “More than any nonprofit I’ve been involved with, I know my time is making a direct and immediate impact on the lives of these kids.”

CASA volunteers like Edwards are matched with abused and neglected children in the family court system. Each volunteer visits their child monthly, talks with others in the child’s life, and writes reports that give everyone on the case the information they need to help the child.

“Developing relationships and building trust with the children in each case is critical to understanding their needs and knowing how best to advocate for them,” Edwards said. “The same can be said for establishing trust with social workers and attorneys. Getting good outcomes for kids is often a team effort.”

Edwards’ Volunteer Manager Rebecca Brereton-Farr said Edwards has been instrumental in uncovering information and finding ways to get better outcomes for the children on her current CASA case.

“I truly believe that the direction this case takes will be because of Kathy’s undivided attention to the best interests and needs of the children,” Brereton-Farr said. “She has been incredible to work with and her hard work deserves to be recognized.”

Edwards said she is amazed at how much of a difference she can make as a CASA volunteer.

“If people knew that could help a child return to a permanent, nurturing home faster just by being involved, most wouldn’t hesitate,” she said. “I cannot say enough about the CASA mission, its staff or the training I received! The reward is far greater than I ever expected.”

For more information about becoming a CASA volunteer, visit www.casaoflexington.org.

Kayla Pelphrey bonded with her CASA kids, bringing some fun and consistency into their lives

Kids’ artworks hanging on the wall in Kayla Pelphrey’s office.

The art that hangs on the wall of Kayla Pelphrey’s office isn’t by anyone famous. It isn’t worth a lot of money. But it does represent an investment in the future.

Pelphrey’s office art was created by her CASA children: kids in the family court system who have suffered abuse or neglect.

“When I walk into my little office every day and see the coloring book pages and notes I’ve hung in my corner from visits, I think about the little smiles that created them,” Pelphrey said. “Those soft little smiles are something I know I’ve helped grow into great big happy grins of excitement — despite the situation at hand.”

Pelphrey has been a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer for six different children since 2022. She visits the children she is matched with regularly, getting to know them often better than anyone else assigned to the case.

Pelphrey provides a regular person’s perspective that is often lacking in court cases, which enables the judge to make more informed decisions that focus on what the children need.

“Being a CASA volunteer is one of the best things you can get involved in,” Pelphrey said. “It not only allows you to be a support for kiddos and have some fun, but sheds light on your community — the good, bad and ugly. Getting involved, understanding, and listening are the first steps to make any kind of change.”

Pelphrey is supported in her work as a CASA advocate by her Volunteer Manager Rebecca Brereton-Farr.

CASA Volunteer of the Month Kayla Pelphrey

Brereton-Farr said Pelphrey is a natural at engaging with the children she is serving. With one group of siblings, Pelphrey brought a stuffed toy dog to the first visit. They named the dog “Muffin” and Pelphrey told them the dog would come back for every visit, bringing along photos of what it got up to in between.

“The kids fell in love with Muffin and would run to play and cuddle with him when Kayla arrived for visits,” Brereton-Farr said. “She would tell them the stories of her adventures and show pictures.

“Kayla followed through on every visit and provided consistency, fun, and attention. At every visit, the kids would run to see and hug Kayla, with Muffin coming in a close second for hugs! And their smiles would grow bigger and more genuine with every visit.”

Pelphrey said she believes every child deserves to have positive experiences that stick with them into their adulthood.

“That’s something I always had growing up and something everyone deserves,” she said. “If I can have any little piece of helping to make that a reality for someone, it is time well spent!”

For more information about becoming a CASA volunteer, visit www.casaoflexington.org.

One central Kentucky woman has improved children’s futures for 10 years as a CASA volunteer

CASA Volunteer Judy Papania

Every year in central Kentucky, hundreds of children suffer abuse and neglect. Those children then experience instability and uncertainty about their futures as their cases move through the family court system.

One Woodford County woman has been making a difference in this system, one child at a time, for more than 10 years.

“I have had many different cases,” said Judy Papania, who has been a CASA advocate since early 2014. “The one common theme has been that the children did not deserve what they were going through. They were innocent participants and needed to be protected.”

As a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer, Papania is matched with abused and neglected children. She visits them regularly, gaining a deep understanding of their lives. Then, she shares what she learns with the court, enabling the judge to make more informed decisions and get better outcomes for the children.

“It was my job to help protect them by following their medical, educational and social needs, and advocating for their best interests — how their lives can be improved today and also for the future,” Papania said.

Papania has advocated for 10 children during her years as a CASA volunteer. Her current Volunteer Manager Jennifer Lamb said in her most recent case, Papania has shown remarkable dedication to helping the sibling set for whom she advocates.

“Judy has faithfully visited the children in her case and advocated for services and stability for the children,” Lamb said. “She keeps meticulous notes and when questions arise in court, she is able to provide much-needed information to the judge. These children certainly have one of the most dedicated, passionate advocates anyone could want.”

Papania said she has greatly enjoyed being part of the CASA community.

“It is a great organization with many dedicated staff and volunteers,” she said. “It is definitely one of the most rewarding things I have done.”

For more information about becoming a CASA volunteer, visit www.casaoflexington.org.

CASA Volunteer Peggy Entrekin

Woodford County CASA Volunteer Peggy Entrekin is a Volunteer of the Month for the region. Woodford volunteers have now claimed the Volunteer of the Month honor in CASA of Lexington’s seven-county service area twice in 2024.

Entrekin is celebrating her five-year “CASA-versary” this month and has advocated for five abused or neglected children during that time. The former teacher and nonprofit executive director became a CASA volunteer after she read an article in her local newspaper.

“It’s been very rewarding. I’ve really enjoyed all the families and children that I’ve worked with,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed seeing the children wind up in better situations.”

Woodford County’s CASA Volunteer Manager Heather Porter nominated Entrekin for the award.

“Peggy has advocated for her CASA children’s best interests at school, in their foster homes and within the court system,” Porter said. “Her greatest impact has been as a consistent presence for the kids. They know she is willing to listen to their concerns and their hopes, and they continually reach out to her when they need to talk.

“Peggy’s consistency and listening ear have provided stability for children in an often uncertain situation.”

CASA volunteers give 5-10 hours a month to advocate for an abused or neglected child in the local family court system. Each volunteer visits their child monthly, talks to adults in the child’s life, reviews records and writes reports.

CASA reports regularly provide information no one else in court has and identify where a child’s needs have been forgotten or overlooked. Children who receive a CASA volunteer can do better in school, receive more services and return to safe, permanent homes faster.

“I see the need to fill the gap,” Entrekin said. “We have the courts and the (attorneys) and the social workers and the foster families, but there is still a big gap for the kids. There is a need and anyone who becomes a CASA volunteer will find it very rewarding.”

Anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer can learn more by visiting www.casaoflexington.org, calling (859) 246-4313 or emailing info@casaoflexington.org. You can see upcoming training classes for new volunteers at www.casaoflexington.org/training.

CASA Volunteer Patty Overing

After Patty Overing retired from her career in banking, she began putting more time into her hobbies and family. But she also wanted to do something else with her newly freed schedule.

“I was looking for something to do with my time volunteer-wise — a way to serve,” she said.

Overing had heard about Court-Appointed Special Advocates because her bank contributed to the United Way, which funded a CASA program. But she had not learned what CASA volunteers do.

Overing learned how CASA volunteers visit with children who are involved in family court cases, but are not tasked with escorting or overseeing the children. And she learned how CASA volunteers’ reports often reveal important information no one else in court knows and help change the course of the children’s cases.

So, she signed up, went through training and became a CASA volunteer. Today, she is one of CASA of Lexington’s longest-serving volunteers, having advocated for 12 children over the course of about five and a half years. She is also a CASA of Lexington Volunteer of the Month for May.

Overing’s Volunteer Manager Dennis Stutsman nominated her for Volunteer of the Month.

“Patty is always looking for the best ways to help meet the needs of her CASA kids,” Stutsman said. “She is especially good at working with caregivers to ratchet up their engagement, enriching the lives of the children they care for.”

Overing said she has seen firsthand how resilient children can be and how beneficial it is to them to have a CASA volunteer who brings positivity and hope.

“My time as a CASA volunteer has been varied and interesting,” she said. “It’s nice to try to develop that relationship with a child or children, to get them to trust you and open up. It’s nice to show them that you’re reliable — that month after month, I am going to show up and be there for them, even if they move.”

Overing said she still remembers the surprise on the face of one of her CASA children when he had been moved to a new home and she still showed up for a visit.

“It’s a needed and valuable contribution that pretty much anyone can make in the life of a child,” she said. “I can really give them something to look forward to with my visit each month.”

CASA Volunteer Bev Chandler

A Georgetown woman has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month for her advocacy on behalf of abused and neglected children.

Bev Chandler has served as a CASA volunteer in Scott County for just over a year. She has been the voice for two children in the local family court system during that time.

Chandler, who works at Toyota, said she learned about what CASA volunteers do over the summer of 2022 and her interest was sparked.

“I felt like I had a lot to offer a child and could commit to the monthly visits and regular court hearings,” she said. “Toyota gives me the flexibility to support my kiddos in-person or at court.”

Chandler was nominated for CASA Volunteer of the Month by Sarah Fightmaster, who served as her Volunteer Manager.

Bev is a wonderful mentor and role model for the children she serves. She is a fierce and passionate advocate and I’m so thankful that two children have her as a CASA volunteer,” Fightmaster said. “Her detail-oriented approach was essential to moving forward her children’s cases. Her CASA children now have more security knowing they’re closer to permanency in a safe, protective home.”

Chandler said one child she has advocated for was moved between six different placements within a year.

“I have been a consistent presence for her, which has helped her trust me enough to open up about her past challenges and future goals,” Chandler said. “I am so proud of her progress!”

Each CASA volunteer completes a 30-hour training class prior to being assigned a case. Once their training is complete, they are matched with a child who has suffered abuse or neglect and they visit the child every month.

The CASA volunteer also talks to adults in the child’s life and reviews medical and educational records. They provide reports to the judge on the case that identify unmet needs and advocate for the best interests of the child.

CASA volunteers can help reunify or keep together families whenever it is safely possible. They can also spur action to get kids educational services or medical treatment, preventing them from falling through the cracks.

“Being able to build a relationship with kiddos who have not had a good start in life has been so rewarding,” Chandler said. “Seeing them enjoy extracurricular activities for the first time or talk to me about their plans makes every second of my time worth it.

“They have gone from being neglected to thriving in safe places where their needs are being met. I have volunteered with many organizations in my life and CASA has been the most rewarding volunteer experience I’ve ever had.”

Anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer can view upcoming training schedules at www.casaoflexington.org/training.

CASA Volunteer Julie Turner

An Asbury Theological Seminary student has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month for her hard work advocating on behalf of abused and neglected children.

Julie Turner has been a CASA Volunteer for about a year and a half and has advocated for two children in the family court system during that time.

“I was looking for some way to give back, some way to help children who are disadvantaged in some way,” Turner said. “Serving as a CASA volunteer has been exciting, challenging and fun.”

CASA volunteers give 5-10 hours of their time each month to help children who have suffered abuse or neglect. Each volunteer visits their child once a month, often getting to know the child’s situation better than anyone else on the case. The information a volunteer gathers can be vital to ensuring a child gets the services they need and can return to a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible.

Turner said one thing that attracted her to CASA when she was looking for a volunteer opportunity was how CASA volunteers are supported by Volunteer Managers — paid staff who know the ins and outs of the system and guide the volunteers every step of the way.

“I was looking for something where I wasn’t the sole person responsible,” explained Turner, who makes time for volunteering in addition to her classes at Asbury. “I wanted backup. My Volunteer Manager Jennifer has been excellent at that. She is my sounding board. She helps me figure out the right words for my reports or what to say in court. And she finds out answers to things when neither of us know.”

Turner’s Volunteer Manager Jennifer Lamb nominated her for the Volunteer of the Month honor.

“Julie has advocated for trauma-focused therapy, as well as medical and educational follow-ups for her CASA children,” Lamb said. “She has built great connections with the children and very attentive in her interactions with them. The children Julie serves truly need the calming presence she provides.”

CASA volunteers complete a 30-hour training class before being matched with a child. Anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer has several training class options coming up. All upcoming CASA volunteer training schedules can be found at www.casaoflexington.org/training.

“I would invite people to look into becoming a CASA volunteer and discover what it’s all about,” Turner said. “It’s one of the hardest things you will do, but also one of the most rewarding and stimulating.”

CASA Volunteer Debbie Rurik-Goodwin

Debbie Rurik-Goodwin had two goals after she retired: Spend time with her grandson and volunteer however she could to make a real difference.

By serving as grant coordinator for the Children’s Charity of the Bluegrass, she learned a lot about some of the best nonprofits in central Kentucky. When she learned about what Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers do, “it struck a chord with me immediately,” she said.

Rurik-Goodwin took a 30-hour training class to become a CASA volunteer, and now after a year volunteering, she has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month.

“Debbie is such a kind and diligent volunteer,” said Sarah Fightmaster, Scott County’s CASA Volunteer Manager. “She is what CASA is all about. She has provided an ongoing source of stability for a child in a volatile case.

“Through all the ups and downs this child has faced, Debbie has been there for her.”

CASA volunteers are matched with children in the family court system who have suffered abuse or neglect. Each CASA volunteer visits their CASA child monthly, often getting to know them better than anyone else in the courtroom. The volunteer provides reports about the child’s situation to the judge on the case, allowing the judge to make more informed decisions and getting better outcomes for kids.

“I believe CASA volunteers are so important and effective in these children’s lives because they’re able to spend more time with them and dig deep into what’s really going on in a child’s life and what the child’s needs are,” Rurik-Goodwin said. “I think many people should volunteer as CASA volunteers. There are so many children who need a CASA volunteer and there aren’t enough volunteers to go around.”

Fightmaster said without Rurik-Goodwin on her case, “this would have been an entirely different experience, from the child’s perspective.” Rurik-Goodwin gave her CASA child a voice in court they would not have had otherwise, she said.

Anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer can join the next training class for new CASA volunteers, which begins April 4 with classes on nights and weekends. A full schedule of the training classes is available at www.casaoflexington.org/training.

“I would encourage anybody who has a heart and the time to commit to this to do it. It is so needed for children today,” Rurik-Goodwin said. “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I never feel better myself than when I’m giving to somebody else. That’s where my joy comes from.”

CASA Volunteer John Mullins

John Mullins has been a coach his whole life.

“I’ve coached every sport there is — even ice hockey,” he said.

Mullins actually coached his son’s hockey team to state runners-up finishes twice. Mullins has also found another way to help children grow: He serves as a CASA volunteer.

“CASA volunteers are vital. We act as a voice for the children,” Mullins said.

Mullins has served as a CASA volunteer in Lexington for a year, and in Louisville for seven years before that. As a CASA volunteer, he is appointed to children in the family court system who have suffered abuse or neglect. He visits them regularly, talks to adults in their lives and advocates for their best interests in court.

Because of his dedication and passion for helping kids, he has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month for March. Bourbon County Volunteer Manager Weida Allen nominated Mullins for the honor.

“John is a very strong advocate for the kids he advocates for in court,” Allen said. “He always visits the children monthly, sometimes twice a month if he feels it is necessary. He has never missed a court date.”

Mullins said being a CASA volunteer isn’t for everyone, but it is a great fit for people who are caring, compassionate, thoughtful and passionate about making a real difference.

“CASA is vital. When I found out about CASA, I said, ‘I’ve got to do this. I’ve got to help with this,’” he said. “I hate to say this, but the court system is broken. That’s why they need CASA volunteers. Your social worker is underpaid, over-worked and under-appreciated. You may see something they don’t see. We have more time than a social worker may have on a case.”

CASA volunteers bring a regular person’s perspective into the courtroom, providing the judge with a lot more detail about what’s going on in a child’s life than they would otherwise have. Just by observing what is happening in a child’s life and providing recommendations to the judge, a CASA volunteer can help ensure a child receives appropriate medical attention, gets educational interventions or even finds a safe, permanent home faster.

“All these children ever want is two things: They want to be loved and they want to have hope,” Mullins said. “If you’re looking for a way to make a difference in a kid’s life — and I mean a real difference — this is it.”

CASA Volunteer of the Month Emma Sandrock

Emma Scott has always made volunteering a part of her life. When she looked  for a way to serve her community in Jessamine County, she discovered the local Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program.

“The CASA training introduced me to some incredible people in our community,” she said.

Scott went through the 30-hour training to become a CASA volunteer, and has now advocated for three abused or neglected children in the local family court system.

Because of her hard work on behalf of children, her Volunteer Manager Cara MacLeod nominated her for CASA Volunteer of the Month in February.

“Emma is great to work with,” MacLeod said. “She has taken the time to build a good connection with her CASA kids and the parents on the case. She is also excellent at gathering records, talking with parties on the case, and independently verifying information.”

CASA volunteers give about 5-10 hours a month doing the work, which includes visiting with their assigned child or children monthly, talking to adults in each child’s life, and writing reports for the judge on the case.

CASA volunteers try to help reunify families whenever possible, or advocate for finding a safe, permanent home when reunification is not safely possible. They can help identify when children aren’t receiving services they need and ensure each child has a voice in court.

“The need is large and it is important,” Scott said. “I have no superhuman powers or any heroic character traits — and you don’t have to either to volunteer. Just by being present and consistent for these children, you can make a difference right where you are.”

CASA Volunteer Brian Collins

When Brian Collins went through a divorce, he saw firsthand how confusing and overwhelming the court system can be — especially for children. Collins decided he wanted to make things easier for others, so he went back to school to study law. He also signed up as a CASA volunteer.

“The term ‘best interests of the child’ is thrown around a lot, but you have a heap of people with a bunch of initials after their names who do not know the child, and they’re making the decisions,” Collins said. “I found CASA because I was trying to find a way to actually include the child in those decisions.

“The courts, attorneys and social workers do what they can. But CASA provides a chance to get to know the families and make recommendations that help advance their real best interests.”

Collins went through CASA volunteer training in the spring of 2023 and was assigned to be the advocate for a pair of young girls. His Volunteer Manager Liz Noffsinger has supported him throughout the case, which is now wrapping up. Noffsinger nominated Collins to be a CASA Volunteer of the month because of the difference he has made on the case.

“He forged a relationship with the parents and was really one of the only parties they would communicate with. His court reports were excellent,” Noffsinger said. “Brian’s sense of humor also can diffuse some uncomfortable situations. And he speaks up in court with confidence.”

Collins has worked as a standup comic and had jobs around the country working with animals, including sea lions, dolphins, whales, monkeys and giant pandas. If you ask him about it all, he’ll open with a joke.

“I am a semi-pro line dancer and underground bunker enthusiast,” he said. “Neither of which is remotely true.”

Collins said he plans to take another CASA case once his current one closes. He said serving as a CASA volunteer has given him a chance to make a meaningful impact on children’s futures.

“The overwhelming majority of these kids are not in their situation by their own making,” he said. “I had an awesome childhood, so I reckon paying it forward is a decent way to spend some time.”

CASA volunteers are matched with abused or neglected children in the family court system. Each CASA volunteer visits their child monthly, talks to adults in the child’s life and writes reports for the judge.

CASA volunteers provide a level of detail about children’s lives that no one else in the courtroom has the time to provide. That helps better inform judges’ decisions, and in many cases leads to more services and better outcomes for children.

It takes about 5-10 hours a month to serve as a CASA volunteer.

Collins said he was worried initially about whether he had the time, but found it was actually easier to do the work than he thought.

“You have the time. When you get into a case and learn about the circumstances, you will find yourself making time,” he said. “When you meet the kids, you will find even more time. A lot of what you will experience is heartbreaking, but you will make a difference. Give it a whirl — I dare you.”

More CASA volunteers are needed to serve abused and neglected children in Lincoln County

Lincoln County resident Priscilla Miller has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month for January 2024.

CASA Volunteer Priscilla Miller

Miller has been a CASA volunteer serving abused and neglected children in Lincoln County for a little over a year.

“It has been an amazing journey for me to be able to give back to the community and be able to advocate for a child,” Miller said. “I wasn’t sure if I had the time, but I gave it a try and it has been a bigger blessing for me to give back. And I love it because the CASA family is amazing!”

Jennifer Lamb, Miller’s Volunteer Manager, nominated her for the Volunteer of the Month honor because of how she has supported her CASA child and consistently advocated for his best interests.

“Priscilla has had to make some tough recommendations, but she has always stood firmly behind the facts and having this child’s well-being and safety as her primary concern,” Lamb said. “I have no doubt she will remain in this child’s life and continue to be a source of stability for him.”

CASA volunteers complete a training class and then are matched with children in the local family court system who have suffered abuse or neglect. While social workers and attorneys routinely work dozens of cases at once, CASA volunteers can focus in on one case at a time, volunteering for about 5-10 hours a month.

“The work I do with CASA is valuable because I provide the communication the judge would never get from the child,” Miller said. “A lot of times, the judge never sees the child. As a CASA, I can attach pictures. I can let the judge know who this child actually is. I have that opportunity to speak up for the child.”

The CASA program serving Lincoln and Garrard counties is currently the fastest growing program based on population size in the state.

“Our growth in Lincoln County is essential because our rate of child abuse and neglect is above the state average. That means there are many kids in need of someone to speak up for them right now,” said Melynda Jamison, Executive Director.

Miller said she strongly recommends others sign up to become CASA volunteers — because of the difference they can make for kids in need, and because of the culture inside the CASA program.

“The atmosphere with CASA is great! It’s a family,” she said. “I’m telling you — you think you can’t do it? Yes, you can. Everybody can be a voice, an advocate for a child. It’s just such a blessing and once you start, the rewards you get back are amazing.”

The next training for new CASA volunteers in Lincoln and Garrard counties begins Jan. 23 in Lancaster. A complete schedule of training dates is available at www.casaoflexington.org/training and you can apply to be a CASA volunteer at www.casaoflexington.org/apply.

More CASA volunteers are needed for abused and neglected children in Woodford County

Versailles resident Fred Thomas has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month for January 2024. 

CASA Volunteer Fred Thomas

Thomas, who has been a CASA volunteer since 2019, has advocated for five abused and neglected children in Woodford County Family Court over that time.

“I have deep concern for making the world better than I found it,” Thomas said. “CASA has been a huge step forward in that direction.”

As a CASA volunteer, Thomas is matched with children in family court who need someone to listen and speak up for their needs. He visits his CASA child every month, talks to others in the child’s life, and writes reports for the judge on the case. It takes about 5-10 hours a month to serve as a CASA volunteer.

Woodford County CASA Volunteer Manager Heather Porter nominated Thomas for Volunteer of the Month because of how well he connects with the children he serves — and because of a recent court report of his that the judge loved.

“The judge commended Fred's court report during a hearing, noting that she appreciated Fred's ability to clearly state the facts of the case and advocate in an empathetic manner that was considerate of all parties involved,” Porter said.

Thomas is working on his social work degree while he works at the Woodford County Detention Center, where he said he sees people who could have benefited from having CASA volunteers when they were children.

Research has shown that children who receive a CASA volunteer do better in school, have more hope for the future, and are far less likely to re-enter the foster system after their cases close. As a result, they are less at-risk for problems like substance use disorder.

Thomas said serving as a CASA volunteer is one of the best uses of his time.

“I get to be hands-on and actually talk with a child who genuinely needs some help,” he said. “I also find myself becoming a better person because my CASA kids need me to be — more patient, more kind, more empathetic, just better for the world around me.”

“We need more volunteers like Fred in Woodford County, because there are children in family court who do not have CASA volunteers currently,” said Melynda Jamison, Executive Director of Woodford’s CASA program. “The course of a child’s life can be changed forever with just a few hours of your time each month.”

If you’re interested in becoming a CASA volunteer in Woodford County, you can learn more at www.casaoflexington.org or by emailing woodfordcounty@casaoflexington.org.

CASA volunteers Jackie Washburn, left, and Susan Isaacs are December’s Volunteers of the Month.

When a new case of child neglect involving six siblings came across Rebecca Brereton-Farr’s desk last year, she knew she would need some special CASA volunteers for the job.

Brereton-Farr, a Volunteer Manager at CASA of Lexington, paired up Jackie Washburn, a veteran CASA volunteer with 15 years of experience, and Susan Isaacs, a new CASA volunteer who was waiting for her first case. Together, they would begin advocating for the children’s best interests.

The results have been amazing.

Jackie and Susan discovered their strengths complemented each other nicely — Jackie brought her experience; Susan brought strong computer skills. Both shared a love of children and a desire to improve their world.

“I feel like I have a new friend,” said Susan, a retired educator and consultant. “I know about her children and her grandchildren. We talk about a lot more than just the case.”

The pair have now spent more than a year as CASA volunteers on the case. They visit the children monthly, talk to adults in the children’s lives, review educational and medical records, and write reports for the judge on the case, leading to better outcomes.

Children who receive CASA volunteers like Jackie and Susan have usually suffered trauma and have little or no stability in their lives. CASA volunteers provide hope that things will get better, advocate for more stability, identify needs that others in court have overlooked, and help return children to safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible.

“I want to make sure that all the kids are where they need to be, that they are in a good home,” Jackie said. “And if parents can be that home, and we can help them with that, I like to see reunification as much as possible.”

Because of the excellent work Jackie and Susan have done on their case, they have been named CASA Volunteers of the Month for December 2023.

“Susan and Jackie have been the dynamic duo this case and these kids needed,” said Brereton-Farr. “Susan can navigate the school system and ensure the older children’s educational needs are being met. Jackie can navigate the court system. Both provide a sense of comfort to mom as she works to regain custody and make her own personal progress.”

Brereton-Farr said Susan and Jackie have become a trusted source of information for the judge on the case and helped guide all sides in their case to productive solutions that ultimately help the children.

“I truly believe that without Susan and Jackie on this case, we would not have seen progress and these kids would have just lingered,” Brereton-Farr said.

It takes about 5-10 hours a month to serve as a CASA volunteer. While CASA volunteers always have support from their Volunteer Managers, CASA volunteers who serve on a CASA team also have their partner to bounce ideas off of and share in the highs and lows.

“We talk back and forth to make sure we are on the same page,” Jackie said. “It works very well having two people on this case.”

Susan agreed.

“I had never been to court before; Jackie talked me all through that. I had never done a court report before; Jackie talked me through that,” Susan said. “I’m really relying on her expertise to help me know what to do, what not to do. I’m forever grateful that somebody here had the wisdom to put us together.”

Next CASA Volunteer Training

Anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer can fill out an application at www.casaoflexington.org/apply. You can see upcoming training schedules at www.casaoflexington.org/training. For more information, email info@casaoflexington.org.

CASA Volunteer Nick Luddy

Nick Luddy spent 24 years in the U.S. Army, including a 10-year stint doing anti-terrorism work. He has traveled the globe for his job, serving in multiple countries across the Middle East and Africa.

Today, Nick is retired from the Army, but he has found a new way to have an impact: He serves as a CASA volunteer, advocating for vulnerable children in the local family court system.

As a military police officer, Nick said he saw some unfortunate situations involving domestic violence and child abuse. Nick would work with social workers to find a family member or another safe placement for the children who were harmed.

After he retired, a family friend told him about the Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, and its purpose resonated with Nick because he knows about the challenges some kids can face.

“Once I heard about CASA, I thought maybe I could try to make a difference in a few kids’ lives,” he said. “I enjoy getting to meet the children and their families, seeing their struggles and being able to offer some help.”

CASA volunteers are matched with children who have suffered abuse or neglect. They visit the children monthly, talk to adults in the children’s lives, review records, and write recommendations and reports for the judge on the case.

Fayette County family court judges have praised CASA reports for containing a far greater level of information and detail about children’s lives than would otherwise be available. The judges say CASA volunteers bring an ordinary perspective focused on the child’s needs rather than legal requirements, which helps ground decisions in what’s best for the children.

Nick has been a CASA volunteer with CASA of Lexington for more than two years, and he has now been named a Volunteer of the Month for November 2023.

“Nick is always willing to learn. He has done a great job navigating language barriers in his cases, and he has become a great support for a dad,” said Kyrsten Adkins, a Volunteer Manager who has supported Nick in his volunteer role.

Kealy Griffin, who also served as a Volunteer Manager for Nick, said he would do anything to be a great CASA volunteer for the kids on his case.

“As a newer volunteer, Nick has grown a lot over the last year, but one thing that has remained consistent throughout his case is that he always makes his CASA kids a top priority – no matter what,” Griffin said.

Nick said one of his favorite parts about being a CASA volunteer is seeing his CASA children’s eyes light up when he arrives for a visit. He said he knows there are many more children who still need a CASA volunteer right now.

“We need more CASA volunteers. And we really need more male CASA volunteers,” he said. “I think every CASA volunteer should try to help get the word out about this.”

CASA Volunteer Jan Colbert

Jan Colbert might be a little too good at getting her steps. She uses a pedometer — not to encourage more walking, but to know when she’s hit her limit.

“I have two dogs and we go on very, very, very long walks,” Jan said, laughing. “I have to keep it down to 10,000 steps.”

Jan, a retired accounting professor, said after a career tied to computers and finance, she has found she can’t get enough of getting out in nature. Another thing she can’t get enough of? Serving as a CASA volunteer.

“It really makes a difference,” she said.

Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers are ordinary people who are matched with abused and neglected children in the family court system. A CASA volunteer like Jan visits her child monthly, talks to adults in the child’s life, reviews records, and writes reports for the judge on the case. In all, it takes about 5 to 10 hours a month.

For the past two years, Jan has been the CASA volunteer for two young siblings. During her time on the case, the siblings have changed placements nine times — but Jan has been a consistent, positive presence for them wherever they go.

“It’s just a joy to go see them,” Jan said, explaining one time she went to see them while they were at school and she saw the older one in gym class. “He saw me through the window and he came running over to me — he was so joyous!”

Because of Jan’s hard work for her CASA children, she has been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month for November 2023.

“Jan is the most consistent person on her CASA kids’ case. She knows all of the history and maintains consistent contact with all the parties,” said Kyrsten Adkins, Jan’s Volunteer Manager. “She has followed her kids across the state as they have been moved nine times since coming into foster care. She has also helped us recruit new volunteers and spread awareness in the community!”

Jan said she thinks more people should explore becoming CASA volunteers.

“It really is the most impactful volunteering I can do and I just think it’s so rewarding,” she said.

CASA Volunteer Alex Allouch

After Nicholasville resident Alex Allouch saw a documentary about an abused and neglected child, she knew she wanted to change the trajectory of her career. She decided she would find ways to make a difference for the children in her own community who had been abused or neglected.

Allouch is pursuing a master’s degree in social work and plans to be a licensed clinical social worker. But on her way to that goal, she also discovered she could serve as a CASA volunteer.

“I stumbled across CASA and knew it would be the perfect fit for me,” she said. “Creating lasting bonds with the children I serve is a feeling unmatched by any other. To know them is to love them, and being a voice, an ally, and a constant safe presence in the life of a child in need is definitely the most rewarding aspect of being a CASA volunteer.”

CASA volunteers are regular people who find 5-10 hours a month to give so that abused and neglected children can have brighter futures. CASA volunteers visit the children and often get to know them better than anyone else on the case. They provide insights about what’s going on in children’s lives, which helps family court judges make more informed decisions.

Allouch has advocated for four children since she first became a CASA volunteer in 2020. This month, her Volunteer Manager Cara MacLeod nominated her to be a Volunteer of the Month because she has done an amazing job connecting with her CASA kids and advocating for their needs.

MacLeod is the Volunteer Manager for Jessamine County and supports all the local CASA volunteers, going with them on initial home visits, attending court with them and providing guidance when they have questions.

“While knowing the facts and issues and gathering information is important, Alex’s most important asset is her ability to meet her CASA kids where they are and accept them for who they are, no matter the circumstances,” MacLeod said. “She develops a connection with those she serves, and that connection allows for a greater understanding and trust. It is an honor to watch and guide as Alex advocates for her CASA kids.”

Allouch said there are highs and lows of being a CASA volunteer — “some days you will laugh, others you will cry.”

“Above all, you will know that you are making a difference in the life of a child who desperately needs someone to be their voice,” Allouch said. “… you are never alone in the fight. As a volunteer, you are part of a family of people who are all passionate about the same cause. Everyone from the judge on the bench to your Volunteer Manager and fellow volunteers is involved in a concerted effort to help all children feel safe, loved, and valued.

“It is an important and undeniably worthy mission.”

CASA Volunteer Training

If you would like to become a CASA volunteer and be matched with an abused or neglected child who needs a voice, you can apply online at www.casaoflexington.org/apply. Trainings for new volunteers are held regularly throughout the year, including trainings specifically for Jessamine County volunteers. CASA volunteers must be 21 years old, pass background checks and complete a 30-hour training class before being matched with a child. Every CASA volunteer commits to serving an average of 5-10 hours a month (most work scheduled on their own time) for a minimum of two years. If you have questions about becoming a CASA volunteer, email jessaminecounty@casaoflexington.org.

CASA volunteer Jessica Schroeder

As a teacher, Jessica Schroeder saw many children who had significant home life issues — they were being abused or neglected and struggling at school as a result. But the school system couldn’t address what was going on in those kids’ lives well enough to make a difference.
That’s when she decided to become a CASA volunteer.

“Besides being a CASA, I am most proud of recently becoming a mother,” Schroeder said. “It is the purest love and joy I’ve ever known.”

Schroeder has advocated for seven children as a CASA volunteer since she began in 2022. This month, she was named a CASA volunteer of the month.

Schroeder’s Volunteer Manager Rebecca Brereton-Farr said Schroeder was assigned to her first case because it was “stuck” and the judge wanted to see if additional insight from a CASA volunteer would help. Schroeder began visiting with the kids and learning about their situation.

“As a result, the children returned home,” Brereton-Farr said.

CASA volunteers spend 5-10 hours a month volunteering, most of which is visiting an assigned child, talking to adults in the child’s life, reviewing records about the child and writing down what they have learned for the judge — all done at times when it works for the volunteer.

Every volunteer completes a 30-hour training and receives a Volunteer Manager for support, who goes with them on their first home visit, attends court with them and is always available to provide guidance.

Schroeder said she enjoys forming bonds with the children she is matched with and seeing how excited they get when she comes for a visit.

“Every month that goes by, these kids light up more and more when you rejoice in their accomplishments or praise their hard work in school and sports,” she said. “They look forward to sharing their successes with you, despite the circumstances they find themselves in.

“The most rewarding aspect of being a CASA is the personal fulfillment you receive when you know you are advocating for the right thing, even when it’s difficult. It has become a powerful healing process for my own childhood experiences.”

CASA Volunteer Training

If you would like to become a CASA volunteer and be matched with an abused or neglected child who needs a voice, you can apply online at www.casaoflexington.org/apply. Trainings for new volunteers are held regularly throughout the year. CASA volunteers must be 21 years old, pass background checks and complete a 30-hour training class before being matched with a child. Every CASA volunteer commits to serving an average of 5-10 hours a month (most work scheduled on your own time) for a minimum of two years. If you have questions about becoming a CASA volunteer, email info@casaoflexington.org.

CASA Volunteer Melissa Martin

One of Melissa Martin’s proudest moments was becoming a mom. 

“My daughter is my whole life. I would not know what to do without her,” Melissa said. “She changed my life for the better. I had her so young. But she has taught me what fighting for a better life is all about.” 

If you ask Melissa what else she is proud of, serving as a CASA volunteer will also be near the top of the list. 

She first learned about CASA — a program that provides volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children — from a child that came through the emergency room where she works as a healthcare professional. She looked into it and decided to sign up as a volunteer. 

“The most rewarding part of becoming a CASA has been getting to meet new people and being able to help with what’s going on in their life,” she said. 

Martin has served as a CASA volunteer for about 18 months, and has now been named a CASA Volunteer of the Month thanks to a nomination by her Volunteer Manager Dennis Stutsman. 

Stutsman said Melissa jumped right in on her first assignment and has done a great job helping improve her CASA children’s lives. 

“She has done a tremendous job of advocating for the kids in court, often clarifying facts that appear to be unknown,” Stutsman said. “She has ensured that the children get proper medical care, special needs evaluations and educational services.” 

Melissa has also helped the family of the children find community resources and develop a support network. 

Children who receive CASA volunteers do better in school and far less likely to re-enter the system after their cases close. That’s because volunteers like Melissa find common-sense solutions that might otherwise go overlooked and help ensure families are in a stronger position to stay together and stay safe. 

CASA volunteers receive a 30-hour training before being assigned to a child and are supported by a Volunteer Manager every step of the way. A volunteer typically spends 5-10 hours a month volunteering, and all volunteers are asked to commit to serve for at least two years. 

Melissa said serving as a CASA volunteer has been personally rewarding. 

“Sometimes, it’s not rainbows and sunshine,” she said. “But helping the children within our community to succeed in life – it’s very rewarding, especially when the world is against them.”