June Volunteer Spotlight- Tina

We asked Tina what she likes about being a CASA Volunteer:

"What I enjoy about being a CASA volunteer is being able to meet new people and families. Also, being able to help these children that are in need of help in all aspects of life. It does bring a smile to my face to think that if I can help just one child through my advocating and looking at what is in this child’s best interest, then I know that I have truly done my part."

Tina, along with her husband, son, and grandson, calls Knoxville home. She enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors, gardening, visiting new places, and having peace and quiet at the end of the day. Tina also has a daughter living in Florida, and the whole family looks forward to celebrating the completion of her new home in Cape Coral in September.

Thank you Tina!

Swearing-In New Advocates

May 28, 2021

Pictured: Courtney, Ramona, and Stephanie along with Judge Tim Irwin.

CASA of East Tennessee proudly gathered for the swearing-in of three new advocates. These volunteers began training in April and participated in a hybrid class comprised of online and in-person attendees.

“This group was engaged, excited, and so much fun to teach. They asked great questions and took advantage of everything offered to them. Whether it was critically thinking through case studies, connecting with their volunteer mentors, or just coming to each class with an open mind, each of these new volunteers made the most of every opportunity to learn.

I know this group of volunteers will make terrific advocates.”

— Lauren Herrmann, Volunteer Coordinator

These volunteers participated in 30 hours of training over the course of 5 weeks. We asked Ramona to share her thoughts on CASA training and she had this to say:

“Going into applying for CASA, I was well-aware of the mission and had a strong commitment to being a part of it. But my one drawback was that I felt I was not personally equipped, trained or had relevant experience to handle the calling. The CASA leaders immediately set my mind at ease, as they want volunteers who are ready and willing and then they’ll provide all the necessary training, support and resources! I was amazed at how thorough the training was.

Even before training began, all of the prospective volunteers and I identified questions we had and gaps we wanted to fill in our knowledge. By the end of training we returned to those questions and realized we had not only answered all of them, but had corresponding resources to address any future questions.

Throughout training, I have consistently told those around me that the training I was receiving was incredible and I wish everyone could partake in it. We covered domestic violence, mental illness, poverty, cycles of attachment, foster care laws, stages of growth and many more areas that I feel it would do well for everyone to understand. We were also given multiple additional short videos, books, podcasts, movies and articles to supplement our in-class training. We were able to ask questions and dialogue as a group and connect with board members and our CASA supervisors, which assuaged my worries of being isolated in this endeavor. All in all, I could not praise this training enough and stand by the fact that I feel everyone should learn what we have learned even if they do not want to become a CASA. ”

— Ramona

CASA looks forward to seeing each of these volunteers flourish as advocates for Knox county children.

May Volunteer Spotlight-Megan

We asked Megan what drew her to CASA and she replied, "I was attracted to the CASA program because I wanted to be actively involved in advocating for children who are abused or neglected. My husband and I fostered for 3 years. During that time we fostered 5 children, adopted 1 sweet boy, and helped other foster families with respite. We experienced many things during our years of fostering but the most impactful and forever life changing event was fostering a little girl for 18 months, and helping reunify her with her biological family. Holding precious children in my arms who needed a safe place to be loved and cared for, will forever be the driving force I have to help encourage me to keep on keeping on even when cases seem hard and complex. These kiddos need someone advocating for them."

Megan also told us a little bit about why she enjoys being a CASA, "I have loved getting to know and learn from other people in our community that are also passionate about helping at risk children. We have some really incredible people we come into contact with! I’ve also loved getting to help encourage and empower families to be the healthiest and best caregivers for their children. But hands down the single greatest thing about being a CASA volunteer has to be the sweet smiles on the faces of my kiddos I've advocated for. Home visits can be more than just a gathering of information, there is plenty of time to get on the floor and play with the little ones or enjoy a conversation about my teen’s current passions."

Megan shares her home with her husband, Ben, and their three children, and their shih tzu, Molly. Megan has lived in Knoxville her entire life and says proudly, "Nothing beats Rocky Top" She enjoys spending time with her children, experiencing the outdoors, reading, and trying new restaurants around town.

Megan can't wait for hugs, concerts, large gatherings, and the moment she gets to meet her new niece face-to-face.

Thank you Megan!

CASA of East Tennessee's Executive Director, appointed to serve on National CASA/GAL Leadership Council

Serving a two-year term, Ada Hernandez-Bell, along with child welfare leaders from across the nation, will play an integral role in voicing the unique needs of 948 local programs that make up the CASA and Guardian ad Litem (GAL) network. In 2019, the CASA/GAL network, with its 96,929 volunteers, served more than 270,000 children who have experienced abuse and neglect. With more than 400,000 children in foster care on any given day, the leadership council will focus its efforts on ensuring that the network achieves its mission of serving all children through best-interest advocacy.

 The Leadership Councils are a vital part of our efforts to serve more children in the foster care system, while continually improving their outcomes,” said National CASA/GAL Chief Executive Officer Tara Lisa Perry. “We are so excited and grateful to have Ada providing her insight and expertise as we strive to move our mission forward on behalf of all children who have experienced abuse or neglect.”

 Ada Hernandez-Bell has over 14 years of experience working in the child welfare system in Knox County. Ada’s expertise ranges from developmental needs assessments, family and child systems, trauma informed care, co-parenting mediation, and domestic violence education. Ada brings a wealth of knowledge of the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services protocol, policies, and procedures and excellence in foster care training standards. Throughout her career Ada has focused on the systemic and often generational impact of trauma incorporating a whole-family approach to assessment and planning for success individually focused on each family’s personal history, dynamics, and needs.  

“I am so honored to be appointed to this important national role,” said Ada. “As a member of the Knoxville community, I’m looking forward to bringing our successes and challenges to a network that help us get better as we improve our work across the nation.”

About the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem Association for Children

The National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children, together with its 948 state and local member programs, supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy so that every child who has experienced abuse or neglect in the United States can be safe, have a permanent home and have the opportunity to thrive. National CASA/GAL offers leadership and support to the network of programs and leads its continued growth. CASA/GAL volunteers and staff work every day to help change a child’s story. To learn more, visit nationalcasagal.org or follow National CASA/GAL on Facebook at facebook.com/NationalCASAGAL and @NationalCASAGAL on Twitter and Instagram.

Springtime Swearing-In

On Tuesday, March 23, 2021, CASA of East Tennessee proudly witnessed the swearing-in of a new group of volunteer advocates by Judge Tim Irwin.

These individuals brought with them a wide scope of experience such as an emergency room technician, a construction engineer, a foster parent, and even a former CASA. These volunteers were brought together by a passion to serve abused and neglected children in Knox County. They shared their own professional and personal experience as they learned from each other as well as their instructor, Lauren Herrmann, Volunteer Coordinator.

These advocates participated in court observations, mentorship, 33 hours of training, and a panel made up of CASA staff, attorneys, and other child welfare professionals. CASA of East Tennessee looks forward to the service each of these incredible volunteers will provide to the children of Knox County.

A few new CASA volunteers shared their feelings about how training prepared them to take on their role as Court Appointed Special Advocates:

“The CASA training was very thorough and pretty eye-opening about the cases we may encounter and how we need to respond to those. It helped me better understand our role as CASA volunteers.”

— Cassy Goldston

“I wanted to become a CASA to come along side children who have no one else to advocate for them and their best interest(s) within the judicial system.

I felt like our training was outstanding even though we couldn’t meet in person. The curriculum was thorough and the case studies were engaging and led to lots of additional discussion. I feel as prepared as possible to take on this new role. Thank you Lauren!”

— Susan Presnell

Thank you, Winter Class of 2021. We are so excited to have you join our team!

Sarah's Story

Sarah, a member of CASA of East Tennessee’s first virtual cohort, became sworn-in by the Honorable Judge, Tim Irwin, in June of 2020. Sarah began her advocacy journey with a commitment to enrich her personal quality of life. Like many, Sarah was drawn to volunteering after finding it challenging to identify hobbies and interests that would truly bring meaning. She desired to put good into the universe while also dedicating her valuable time to something significant. Once Sarah began searching for volunteer opportunities, she recalled her sister sharing about a friend who served as a CASA in Colorado. Sarah realized advocating for abused and neglected children was the opportunity she was looking for- a way to make a meaningful impact on the world, in her immediate vicinity in Knoxville, and a life-changing impact on an innocent child’s life.

CASA of East Tennessee volunteer advocates are the court’s eyes and ears, providing critical insight into the life of a child and the circumstances surrounding their needs. Sarah’s role as CASA is to advocate for what is in the best interest of the child she is working with, but also to provide family members and caregivers with vital recommendations to ensure they are able to successfully provide for that child. With the goal of reunifying families, Sarah knows how important it is to provide resources for the adults in these children’s lives, so that they can become the parents and caregivers these children need.

Sarah moved to Knoxville in August of 2019 and has found Knoxville to be “the kind of city that has a culture of citizen compassion and care.” She desires to live “in a place where the people are valued- by the government, institutions, and fellow citizens… in a city where people prop each other up, and root for the success of others. I want to live in an overarching world where children are protected and given a voice.” As an advocate, Sarah is the voice for a child during some of their most difficult times. She serves as a citizen of Knoxville looking out for others who are not able to look out for themselves. Sarah hopes her efforts will enable children to grow into strong, contributing members of this same community she has learned to call home.

When you give to CASA of East Tennessee during Big Give Knox 2020, you provide advocates, like Sarah, access to evidence-based training on the needs of children and best practices for caregivers. This will ensure they are equipped to speak on behalf of a child, who has entered the child welfare system through no fault of their own.

Your gift provides continuous supervision and support as Sarah works giving recommendations that would allow access to educational opportunities, mental health, social supports, and stability for a Knox County child. Volunteers like Sarah typically advocate for four children per year, allowing them the time to focus intensely on each child’s individual needs and to make recommendations unique to their circumstance. CASA of East Tennessee recruits, trains, and supports advocates who commit to remaining with a child from the appointment through permanency, often being the one stable adult in an overburdened system. Your contribution of $32.13 a month allows CASA of East Tennessee to ensure that a child has a committed, well-trained, invested advocate, like Sarah, until they find a safe, loving, and permanent home where they can thrive.

Please visit https://www.casaofeasttn.org/biggive for more information.

CASA of East Tennessee Swears-In 9 new advocates!

On Friday November 20, 2020, 9 new Court Appointed Special Advocates were sworn-in at Knox County Juvenile Court by Judge Tim Irwin: making this the largest group sworn-in in 2020! Amid the current global pandemic, these advocates persevered through technical difficulties and case studies to become a voice for an abused and neglected child who needs them. These advocates navigated virtual difficulties to complete court hearing observations and shadow seasoned advocates as part of their required 33 hours of advocate training.

New Sworn-In Advocates, from left to right: Jennifer Thompson, Stephanie Wade, Jamie Stone, Meredith McKay, Amy King, Ronni Fordham, Kathy Henry, Stefanie Arrington, & Leslie Henderson.

These advocates brought many diverse backgrounds and insights into the classroom; a retired attorney, a non-profit founder, and 4 former foster or adoptive parents. CASA advocates come from many walks of life, but share one ultimate goal- providing a voice for children to ensure that they find a safe and loving home as quickly as possible.

Welcome, new advocates! We at CASA of  East Tennessee are thrilled to have you on board!

Get to Know Our Board! - Lauren Phillips, Secretary

• How and why did you initially become involved with CASA and choose to become involved in the board?

I worked with CASA briefly during my time as a foster parent and when we closed our home I felt it was a natural next step for me. I went through training to become an advocate and very quickly learned how important this work is. I am passionate about helping abused and neglected children so when I was asked to join the board of directors it was an easy yes.

• As you look ahead in the next several years, what do you see as CASA of East TN’s priorities?

I think one of our greatest priorities is increasing the number of children that we are able to serve. Our ultimate goal is to serve every single child that steps foot in the courthouse.

• What is the impact of philanthropy on our organization?

Our advocates work toward ensuring each child we serve has stability and permanency in a safe and loving home. I am not sure there are many things of greater impact to a child!

Get to Know Our Board! - Ashley Carter, Treasurer

•  How and why did you initially become involved with CASA and choose to become involved in the board? 

I had an attorney friend approach me about being on the board because they needed a CPA. Once I heard about the mission, I was in!

• As you look ahead in the next several years, what do you see as CASA of East TN’s priorities?

Increasing awareness in the community

• What do you think are the core components of CASA of East TN? What makes us a strong organization? 

Caring volunteers

• What’s your professional/ educational background? 

Bachelor of Accounting from UT. Master of Tax from UT. I have worked in public accounting for 15 years with concentrations in the following industries: nonprofit, mining, real estate, low income housing. 

• What do you do in your free time? 

Being outside-walking, swimming, reading

• What’s something you’re passionate about?  

Education

• What’s your favorite ice cream flavor? 

Coffee

• What's the most recent book you’ve read/ tv show you’ve binged? 

28 Summers

Get to Know Our Board! - Eboni James, Vice President

• How and why did you initially  become involved with CASA and choose to become involved in the board?

Someone once said, “A best friend is the only one that walks into your life when the world has walked out.”

I like to say, “A CASA is a friend that walks into your life when it seems that the world has walked out.” I decided to become a CASA volunteer to join hands with abused and neglected children on their walk through adversity, as I, too, know what it means to grow up in an at-risk environment.  I want to remind our youth who is hurting that there is opportunity in adversity.

As someone who grew up around children from at-risk communities, I am very much so aware of the role that trauma plays in the lives of abused and neglected children. Based on my own experiences and dedication to youth advocacy, childhood trauma is something that people never really get over, even as they enter the later parts of adulthood. The key, however, is not to get over it but to get through it and potentially help someone else through theirs.

Therefore, when someone asks me, “Why did you become a CASA volunteer in 2012” or “Why do currently serve on the CASA Board of Directors,” I respond: it is because our children need us, no matter who you are, to step in and step up. They need to know that there is someone on the other end fighting for them…that there is hope.

• As you look ahead in the next several years, what do you see as CASA of East TN’s priorities?

There are 4 areas of importance that I see as being a part of CASA of East Tennessee’s priorities over the next several years They include: talent recruitment, development, and retention; technology advancement to further mission goals; innovative sustainability; and increased partnership with local businesses and community leaders.  

• What is the impact of philanthropy on our organization?

Philanthropy is essential to the organization’s success because it allows the organization to continue to affect change in lives of abused and neglected children. Without the acts of good works and charitable giving, CASA would not be able to  provide our youth with the amount of time, resources, and advocacy needed to mitigate the traumatic experiences that our at-risk children face too often.

• What do you think are the core components of CASA of East TN? What makes us a strong organization?

CASA  of East Tennessee is a strong organization because it has a strong and committed network of volunteers, board members, and Juvenile Court leaders who are supportive, selfless, and compassionate about the needs of abused and neglected children residing in East Tennessee.

• What’s your professional/ educational background?

I currently serves as the associate general counsel at Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. I earned my bachelor's degree in political science and psychology from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law.

• What’s something you’re  passionate about?

I am passionate about juvenile justice and advocating for the needs of at-risk youth, including those who have/are being abused and/or neglected.

• What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

I have been eating more frozen yogurt these days, but if it’s ice cream, I’d have to say butter pecan. It was a childhood favorite.

• What's the most recent book  you’ve read/ tv show you’ve binged?

The most recent book I have read is Dear Sonali, Letters to the Daughter I Never Had by Lynn Toler. Ironically enough, I am huge a Divorce Court fan, so I decided to try one of Judge Toler’s books. I’d recommend it to young ladies who are looking for something simple, yet powerful.  Lynn Toler always shares positive and uplifting messages for young people; I think that is why I really like her character on Divorce Court.

Get to Know Our Board! - Katie Ogle, President

∙         How and why did you initially become involved with CASA and choose to become involved in the board?

I served as a CASA volunteer in Virginia while I was in law school, and joined the Board of Directors for CASA of East Tennessee in 2013. My background is in education and as an attorney, I’ve served as a Guardian ad litem on many juvenile court cases with CASA involvement.

∙         As you look ahead in the next several years, what do you see as CASA of East TN’s priorities? 

CASA of East Tennessee will continue to serve families that need our help, and speak up for children who may otherwise not be heard. This is the true mission of our organization: to serve as a voice for the voiceless and to protect children, the most vulnerable population in our community.

∙         What is the impact of philanthropy on our organization? 

Without our generous donors, the great work that CASA does wouldn’t be possible. Each day, it costs over $750 for CASA to operate. 

This ensures that children who are vulnerable and at risk of abuse or neglect continue to have adults who are looking into their individual circumstances and ensuring that their needs are met. CASA is fortunate to have a strong community of volunteers, but we rely on our donors’ continued commitment to children in order for us to provide advocacy for children.

∙         What do you think are the core components of CASA of East TN? What makes us a strong organization? 

At its core, CASA thrives because of our commitment to helping at-risk children. From our strong donor base, to community volunteers and our Board of Directors, we all have a passion for child advocacy. Our board is comprised of members that have a variety of contacts in the community, and all of our volunteers have a variety of life experiences upon which to draw in order to connect with families.

∙         What’s your professional/ educational background? 

My undergraduate degrees are in Special Education, Early Childhood Education, and Elementary Education. I previously taught in an alternative education program in West Virginia. I went to law school in Virginia where I met my husband, who is a Knoxville native. I’ve lived in Knoxville for almost ten years now and practice family law and civil litigation.

∙         What do you do in your free time? 

We have a three-year-old and a two-year-old, so I do a lot of laundry and chase toddlers.

∙         What’s something you’re passionate about? 

I love going to see live music and shows! During the last few months, my husband and I have been streaming old shows and are looking forward to seeing some of our favorite bands soon.

∙         What’s your favorite ice cream flavor? 

Anything with Reese’s peanut butter cups. I’ve also enjoyed S’mores Blizzards from Dairy Queen this summer.  

∙         What's the most recent book you’ve read/ TV show you’ve binged? 

I have read a lot of books from the ‘Read with Jenna and Reese’ Book Club selections. I’m currently listening to “American Dirt” on audiobook. I watched the Perry Mason series on HBO that ended recently and I highly recommend it. 

Volunteer Appreciation 2020 Social Distance-Style

This year’s Volunteer Appreciation Celebration was unlike any we’ve done before, but was no less festive! CASA of East Tennessee staff and board delivered meals for two, provided by Rothchild Catering, along with CASA tote bags, balloons, and other swag to the homes of volunteers. Its always a pleasure to have the opportunity to show our advocates some love and remind them how much we value the work they do for abused and neglected children here in Knox County. Click on the photo below to see slideshow.

It’s a CASA tradition to honor our volunteers for their years of service. This year, we presented certificates to the following advocates:

Richard Perkey- 9 years

Nanette Rouse- 8 years

Marcia Bailey- 6 years

Sue Mathews- 4 years

Susan Meehan- 3 years

Valerie Roberts- 3 years

Jake Wentzel- 2 years

Darrell Trimble- 1 year

We are exceedingly grateful for their continued commitment to the most vulnerable children in Knox County. Thank you to every single CASA of East Tennessee Volunteer. You are the heart of our organization, and we literally could not fulfill our mission without you!

Swearing In June 9, 2020

On Tuesday, June 9th, Judge Irwin swore in 8 new Court Appointed Special Advocates. These eight people chose to step up and train via video conferencing in the middle of a pandemic because they saw a need so great that it couldn’t be ignored. “This training was very unique to us, but it worked out thanks to the flexibility and excitement of each student. They did a great job of studying independently in order to make our valuable time together productive,” said Lauren Herrmann, Volunteer Coordinator.

Newly Sworn in advocates, from left to right: Charlie Dudney, Anna Chandler, Patricia Stephens, Damaris Figueroa, Kim Motter, Karen Ellis, Sarah Segal, Tina Spears

New advocate Sarah Segal had this to say about her experience: “When I interviewed to be a CASA volunteer in February 2020, I had no idea that I would be a member of the first virtually-trained CASA cohort! While it would have been nice to connect in person with my fellow CASAs-in-training, Lauren was very adept in her ability to transfer the course materials to an online presentation medium and we were able to successfully contribute both individually and collectively on coursework. I was unprepared for the wave of emotion that hit me in meeting my cohort today and in standing before the judge for the swearing in; I felt so appreciated, and the weight of my input as a CASA was never more clear to me than in this setting. I am very excited to continue on this journey, with court observations and case assignment, and hope to provide your organization with the diligent service it deserves!”

Welcome, new advocates! We at CASA of East Tennessee are thrilled to have you on board!

Red Shoe Gala 2020

CASA of East Tennessee hosted our 8th annual Red Shoe Gala on February 8, 2020 at Jackson Terminal in Downtown Knoxville. A delicious dinner provided by All Occasions was washed down with signature cocktails by Sugarlands Distributing and craft beers from Craft Distribution Company. Local band Remedy played as guests danced their red shoes off all night. A huge thanks to Alaina René Photography for the awesome photos seen here!

Volunteer of the Year 2020 Clay Shwab

Volunteer of the year Clay Shwab with CASA of East Tennessee Executive Director Ada Hernandez-Bell

Volunteer Advocate Clay Shwab was presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award at CASA of East Tennessee’s 8th annual Red Shoe Gala, held on February 8, 2020 at Jackson Terminal in Downtown Knoxville. Program Manager Andrea Weaver has this to say about Clay’s service:

“Clay is dedicated to his work as a CASA volunteer advocate in every way. His focus on obtaining the best possible outcome for the children he serves is evident in all aspects of his work. He is determined, caring, honest, and fair as he maneuvers through his casework and carries out his duties with passion and conviction.

All cases, whether simple and clear cut or more complex in nature, receive the same dedication and attention from Clay. He is always willing to take on new cases when asked and delivers the information requested in a timely and accurate manner. Clay does not shy away from difficult cases that CASA staff ask him to take on.”

Congratulations, Clay. The work you do truly helps to “Change a Child’s Story.”

Summer Wines Party 2019

Summer Wines 2019 was held August 24th on the Volunteer Princess Cruise Yacht. Guests enjoyed a leisurely cruise while enjoying refreshing wines, chosen especially for their summer appeal, and snacking on food provided by Rothchild Catering. Thanks to all our sponsors, attendees, and door prize donors for helping to make Summer Wines a success!

The Volunteer Princess Cruise Yacht was a fun and unique location for this year’s party!

CASA staff members Ada Hernandez-Bell, Amy Jackson, Britney Sink, Jessica Thacker, and Lauren Herrmann

2018 Volunteer of the Year Monty Merchant

At our Volunteer Appreciation Event on Tuesday, April 16th, Our Volunteer of the Year, Monty Merchant, was presented with a plaque and thanked for his valued service as a CASA volunteer. We are so grateful to Monty and to all our advocates for the important work they do!

2018 Volunteer of the Year, Monty Merchant, accepting a plaque in honor of his service as a CASA, from program manager Ada Hernandez-Bell.

“Monty is the type of person CASA volunteers strive to emulate and CASA staff wish we could duplicate. Since his first case assignment, Monty has approached his CASA volunteer work head-on, with equal parts compassion and determination, to enhance and improve the lives of the children he serves. He is dependable, focused, patient, intentional, and organized.” -Ada Hernandez-Bell

CASA Loves Volunteers! Volunteer Appreciation Event

Our annual volunteer appreciation event was held on Tuesday, April 16th, at Rothchild Catering and Conference Center. Our amazing volunteers were treated to heavy hors d’oeuvres and sangria as we celebrated their service to CASA of East Tennessee. in 2018, our advocates donated over 5,200 hours of their time, a value of $117,884!

Volunteer of the year, Monty Merchant, accepting his award and sharing his wisdom with fellow advocates.

Volunteers took home favors as a small token of appreciation for their service.

It's a Full House! Advocates and Court Dogs Sworn In

On Wednesday, March 27, 2019, I had the honor of being a member of the one of the largest groups of Court Appointed Special Advocates ever to be sworn in in Knox County Juvenile Court. I, along with 11 other CASAs, 5 Court Dog Program volunteers, and 4 Court Dogs, was sworn in by Judge Tim Irwin in front of friends, family, and other supportive members of the Knox County Community.

Due to such a high number of new volunteers, this CASA of East Tennessee training session was split into evening and morning classes. Each class had the benefit of being trained by Ada Hernandez-Bell, CASA's knowledgeable Program Manager,  whose experience working with children in the juvenile court system provided her with a seemingly endless well of knowledge.

This training was interactive and engaging; volunteers were encouraged to ask questions and participate in group discussions. We were encouraged to think critically as we began to learn how to navigate the world of the juvenile court system.

As we grew and learned together, our camaraderie led us to deeper discussions and a shared understanding of how each participant's unique perspective brings value to the CASA program. Our group activities and conversations grew richer as we developed an increasingly stronger understanding of our roles as advocates for abused and neglected children.

When our swearing-in date finally arrived, we volunteers stood shoulder-to-shoulder in front of Judge Irwin and swore to perform our duties as CASAs to the best of our abilities and to maintain strict confidentiality, in service of the children of Knox County. To our great joy, we were also able to witness the swearing in of five HABIT volunteers and their service dogs, whose presence at court will be invaluable to all who encounter them.

Many of these volunteers were assigned cases within a week of being sworn in, and some are working with former classmates or seasoned CASAs who have ample experience and perspective to share. It is with great excitement that I anticipate the impact these volunteers will have on families for years to come.

Lauren Herrmann
Volunteer Coordinator

Red Shoe Gala 2019

There’s No Place Like Home

The 2019 Red Shoe Gala was held on February 2nd at The Standard in Downtown Knoxville, and featured dinner catered by Rothchild Catering, an open bar with signature cocktail, wine and beer, music by The Coveralls, and a silent auction. Decorations were in keeping with our Wizard of Oz theme, and attendees were encouraged to put on their red shoes and dance the night away!