News | CASA of Northeast Oklahoma

CASA of Northeast Oklahoma News

LESLIE CHRISTIAN NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR OCTOBER 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a  Spotlight  Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping change a child's story.       For the month of October CASA recognizes Leslie Christian. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story.  They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect do not face dependency court and foster care alone.      "I was looking for ways to help the children in our community and heard from a CASA friend this was a great way to be active and help support local kids. I also wanted to know more about our DHS system and how foster care operates,” said Leslie Christian. Leslie and her husband have four children, two daughters and two sons. She lives in Claremore and has served as a CASA volunteer advocate in Rogers and Mayes County for about two years. "The most rewarding part working as a volunteer is the children have a voice. Getting to help them express their needs and desires,” said Christian. Regarding the most frustrating thing she has experienced so far, she said “It is the difficulty with some parents attempting to break free from addiction and their personal struggles. Seeing them actively trying to better themselves with little or no support, “said Christian. “The kids are what motivates me to stay involved. All kids need someone in their corner. They need to know they are loved, worthy and important. Unfortunately, we have many children in the communities that have no one, or no parents involved at all,” said Christain. “Leslie is one of the kindest human beings I have ever met. I cannot imagine anyone not liking her. She always puts everyone at ease, making them comfortable around her. You just know that when she makes a connection with a child, their family and others assigned to the child’s case, that it is a genuine connection that will remain for a long time,” said Sandra Rains, Assistant Director. “Congratulations Leslie Christian on being selected Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for October.” “Something that most people might not know about me is that I am a homeschooling mom of four. It is a lot of work, but so worth it! All the extra time with my kids is the best payment! I also love horses and got the opportunity to be a horse-riding instructor for several years before we started a family,” said Christian. “If someone is considering becoming a CASA volunteer, I would say Go for it! The training prepares you so much that you are ready and capable to help support these children. All CASA workers have been so kind and supportive of me, I am sure they will be the same for you,” said Christian. The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family.       About CASA of Northeast Oklahoma:       Incorporated in May 1995, CASA (then Tri-County CASA) was formed serving Rogers, Mayes, and Craig County.  It is now a regional program serving six counties (Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Ottawa, Rogers, and Washington) in Oklahoma, plus the Shawnee Tribal Court.  CASA of Northeast Oklahoma envisions a world where every abused and neglected child has a CASA volunteer appointed to represent his or her best interests, a world where all children have a safe, permanent home and where children experience improved wellbeing.       For more information about volunteer and donation opportunities, please visit www.casaneok.org or call 918-923-7276. To donate by mail, please write it to CASA of Northeast Oklahoma and mail it to, 1222 N. Florence Ave., Suite A, Claremore, OK 74017. For any other questions, please contact Mark Ogle at mark@casaneok.org, 918-694-2510.

LORI VANOY NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR SEPTEMBER 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the month for their work in helping change a child's story. For the month of March, CASA recognizes Fran Bryant. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect don’t face dependency court and foster care alone. "Making a difference for children is what attracted me to get involved with CASA," said Fran Bryant. Fran has served as a CASA volunteer advocate in Washington County for four years, starting in 2020. "The most rewarding part of my volunteer experience so far has been working directly with children and their parents who genuinely want to change the direction of their lives," said Bryant. "While at the same time, it can be frustrating when the process seemingly is not moving quickly in the direction of permanency for the child," said Bryant. "What motivates me to stay involved is the hope that I can make a significant difference in the health and welfare of a child. I want to try and bridge the gap of understanding between parents, child welfare, and the court system," said Bryant. "My father grew up an orphan and was placed in various placements. He had one person consistent in his life who made all the difference. His life and the resilient person he became, has led me to want to do the same thing in someone else's life." "I discovered that young children liked the latch on my purse. They would open and close the latch. I discovered anywhere they went in the foster care system; the children would immediately gravitate to the latch. That action was comforting to me knowing anywhere they landed, I would follow them. Sometimes I was the only consistent person in their lives," said Bryant. “From her preparation to make sure each visit with the child is special, to meeting with the family, to preparing her report for the court, it is very visible Fran's commitment to achieving the best outcome possible for the child," said Emily Bowling, Assistant Director, CASA of Northeast Oklahoma. "Congratulations to Fran Bryant on being selected Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for March. Thank you for what you do in helping change a child's story." Something that most people might not know about Fran is she was raised in a family of four on a cattle ranch outside Lenapah, Oklahoma, and began helping on the ranch at the age of five years old. She feels that her work with animals of all kinds prepared her for working with people in terms of earning trust first and accepting differences. That there are many ways of interreacting, and one way doesn't work for everyone. "If someone is considering becoming a CASA volunteer advocate, I would say my work in CASA is rewarding and purposeful. The support within CASA is excellent. I respect and like my supervisor. She is supportive and available for discussion and direction. I feel valued and appreciated. The team approach is invaluable for achieving a better world," said Bryant. If you would like to be a volunteer like Fran Bryant, please call (918) 923-7276.

DR. MICHELLE BUTLER NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR AUGUST 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping change a child's story. For the month of August CASA recognizes Dr. Michelle Butler. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect do not face dependency court and foster care alone. "I had a former co-worker who was involved in the CASA program. I was looking for a volunteer opportunity that would allow me to be a part of something that could make a significant change in someone’s life. It had to be something I could do and still have a full time job. CASA fit that bill, “said Dr. Michelle Butler. Michelle and her husband, Brian have two adult children and three dogs. She has served as a CASA volunteer advocate in Rogers County for a little over a year. "The most rewarding part has been the positive emotional and academic growth of the children I work with. The presence of supportive adults in the lives of children from trauma makes such a difference in their growth. I have seen similar changes in the adults I have worked with. The change goes at a slower pace for the adults, because sometimes we adults can be a little hard headed, but they are learning how their behaviors affect their loved ones and why there is a need for change,” said Dr. Butler. Regarding any frustrations she may have had as a part of her volunteer experience so far, she said, “I really don’t have any frustrations. I understand I have to meet the individuals involved in my cases where they are. Everyone has baggage they are dealing with. There is no judgement on my part. My goal is to help everyone get better and lead productive, safe lives. That takes work and honesty. Adults get to make their own decisions about their life journeys. Sometimes those are bad decisions which can be frustrating, but I try to connect with them where they are and get them back on track.” "It is easy to stay motivated because there is always another family, another child who needs support and assistance. When you lead a blessed life, you need to give back, to be a part of something bigger than yourself. My life has been very blessed. I believe a little kindness goes a long way. Kindness can give hope, especially to those who feel all alone,” said Dr. Butler. “Michelle truly cares about the families on her cases and wants to see them be successful in getting their children back. She celebrates their accomplishments and is understanding when they stumble. Michelle has one of the biggest hearts for children, which is evident by her career choice. She lives a very busy life but still finds the time to try and help change a child's story," said Sandra Rains, Lead Advocate Coordinator for the 12th Judicial District. “Congratulations to Dr. Michelle Butler on being selected Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for August!” Something that most people might not know about Michelle is that when she goes on vacation, she picks up a rock everywhere she goes and brings it home. She labels them using a permanent marker with the year and location where she found it. She has unique rocks from all over to remind her of her travels. Also, she is a proud Air Force brat who grew up all over the United States and Europe. She loves the Texas Longhorns and watching sports on TV or in person. A lifelong learner who enjoys politics, playing with her dogs and reading. She works in alternative education helping students who are unsuccessful in school become high school graduates. “If someone is considering becoming a CASA volunteer, I would tell them that if they were considering becoming a CASA volunteer, to take the first step and apply. We would love to talk to you about the work we do and how you can help. With the world in its current state, there are a number of families out there who could use a helping hand. Volunteering is not a large time commitment each month, but it can make an immeasurable difference in the life of a child and their family,” said Dr. Butler. “I have a posted note on my wall that says ‘I didn’t cause it. I can’t control it. I can’t cure it, but I can do the footwork to improve it. Don’t quit before your miracle.’” That is how I feel about my work with CASA. I didn’t contribute to the situations these families are in but perhaps I can help them get out of the situation. Seeing a child go from living conditions that are unsafe and traumatic to one that is secure and healthy is a wonderful reward. Miracles occur when people turn their lives around. As a CASA volunteer, I get a front row seat to watch the miracle happen,” said Dr. Butler. The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family. About CASA of Northeast Oklahoma: Incorporated in May 1995, CASA (then Tri-County CASA) was formed serving Rogers, Mayes, and Craig County. It is now a regional program serving six counties (Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Ottawa, Rogers, and Washington) in Oklahoma, plus the Shawnee Tribal Court. CASA of Northeast Oklahoma envisions a world where every abused and neglected child has a CASA volunteer appointed to represent his or her best interests, a world where all children have a safe, permanent home and where children experience improved wellbeing. For more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can help “Change A Child’s Story”, please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time or call 918-923-7276. To make a donation by mail, please write it to CASA of Northeast Oklahoma, 1222 N. Florence Ave., Suite A, Claremore, OK 74017. For any questions, please contact Mark Ogle at mark@casaneok.org, 918-694-2510.

PHILIP OURA NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR JULY 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping change a child's story. For the month of July CASA recognizes Philip Oura. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect do not face dependency court and foster care alone. "I would occasionally pass by the CASA office and wonder what CASA was doing. At that time all I knew was the organization had something to do with children and families. After having taken on volunteer leadership roles with the Red Cross for many years, I felt it was time for me to look at doing something else. With CASA I found that there was a great need for volunteers, especially men, to be an advocate for children. I talked about it with my wife, who agreed that it would be a great idea for me to volunteer. I contacted CASA and signed up to volunteer and work to be the best for our most valuable assets – our children,” said Philip Oura. Phil and his wife Trena, who owns The Village Shop, in downtown Pryor, are empty nesters, with a son who lives in Salina, daughter living in Southern California, five grandchildren, two great granddaughters. He has served as a CASA volunteer advocate in Mayes County for eight months. "The most rewarding part is watching and being part of a system of court, attorneys, family members, DHS, Health Department, Tribal Nations, CASA, and other service providers all coming together in the best interest of the child. Putting the child first and foremost,” said Oura. “Wanting to make sure our children are safe and secure and out of harm's way is what motivates me to stay involved,” said Oura. “While Philip is in his first year as a CASA volunteer, the impact he has already made warrants his being recognized as the Spotlight Volunteer of the month for July,” said Sandra Rain, Lead Advocate Coordinator for the 12th Judicial District. “The work he has done as a CASA volunteer and the other work he does volunteering in Pryor community is truly inspiring.” Something that most people might not know about Philip is he was an avid runner until hit with sciatica issues. He ran many races with distances ranging from 5Ks to marathons. He ran 17 marathons, including qualifying and running in the Boston Marathon. “If someone is considering becoming a CASA volunteer, I would tell them that if you care about children that are neglected and abused and would like to make sure these children will be in a safe and secure environment, CASA is definitely an organization to consider volunteering with,” said Oura. The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family. About CASA of Northeast Oklahoma: Incorporated in May 1995, CASA (then Tri-County CASA) was formed serving Rogers, Mayes, and Craig County. It is now a regional program serving six counties (Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Ottawa, Rogers, and Washington) in Oklahoma, plus the Shawnee Tribal Court. CASA of Northeast Oklahoma envisions a world where every abused and neglected child has a CASA volunteer appointed to represent his or her best interests, a world where all children have a safe, permanent home and where children experience improved wellbeing. For more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can help “Change A Child’s Story”, please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time or call 918-923-7276. To make a donation by mail, please write it to CASA of Northeast Oklahoma, 1222 N. Florence Ave., Suite A, Claremore, OK 74017.

Father's Day - A Time To Celebrate Fathers And Father Figures

Father's Day occurs annually on the third Sunday of June. A day that celebrates and honors fathers and father figures, as well as fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Father figures can include fathers, step-fathers, fathers-in-law, grandfathers, great-grandfathers, foster fathers, male relatives, and men who have chosen to step forward and act as role models to children. In honor of Father's Day, CASA of Northeast Oklahoma recognizes the men who have chosen to step forward to become a CASA volunteer advocate: Rick Crawford, Danny Oglesbee, Philip Oura, Jeff Romines, Ray Wert, and David Wilkins, Sr. They have agreed to be background checked, trained, and assigned by a judge to be a voice for a child in foster care. They meet with the child on a regular basis reviewing their situation, and submitting reports to the court regarding what they think is in the best interest of the child. CASA volunteer advocates are often referred to as the eyes and ears of the judge. Reasons why someone is motivated to initially get involved vary from person to person. "My wife was a CASA volunteer and I wanted to support her. Although I actually was the one that suggested to her about getting in involved with CASA," said Danny Oglesbee, who serves in Washington County. "I was influenced by other volunteers," said Ray Wert, who serves in Rogers and Mayes County. Whatever the different reasons they may have had to get involved, the main reason they remain motivated to stay involved is basically the same, the children. "Providing guidance to teenagers and uniting families," said Rick Crawford, who currently serves in Mayes County. "I want to be a voice for kids entangled in a difficult process that is not for their making. I want them to know there is someone dedicated to looking out for their needs and interests - someone who cares more about them than the process," said Jeff Romines, who serves in Washington County. When asked what they would say to anyone considering becoming a CASA of Northeast Oklahoma volunteer. “Do it, get involved!,” said Oglesbee. “Start as soon as you can,” said Wert. “You will be rewarded beyond measure,” said Crawford. “You can help ensure these kids get the attention and support they need and the future they deserve,” said Romines. CASA of Northeast Oklahoma is a regional court-appointed special advocate program serving district and tribal courts in northeast Oklahoma. Promoting and supporting court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child in northeast Oklahoma who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home and the opportunity thrive. "We are so thankful on this Father's Day that we have these great and caring men who are helping change the lives of children in need for the better. Many of the children on their cases may or may not have ever had a male influence in their lives," said Emily Bowling, Interim Executive Director, CASA of Northeast Oklahoma. "We do need more men, currently men make up only 11% of the total number of CASA volunteers. Also, we need more women volunteers. Unfortunately, we have many more children needing a CASA volunteer advocate than we have available." The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's most fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family. Be like Jeff, Ray, David, Rick, Philip, Danny, and the other CASA volunteer advocates and make a difference in the lives of children living in foster care. You will never regret it helping change their lives for the better! For more information regarding volunteer opportunities and/or to make a financial donation, please go to www.casaneok.org or call 918-923-7276.

KIM STARBLE NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR MAY 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping change a child's story. For the month of May, CASA recognizes Kim Starble. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect don’t face dependency court and foster care alone. "Local news stations were running stories about the need for volunteers for CASA and I remembered a friend from high school saying she had just become a CASA a year or so earlier. I contacted her to pick her brain about it. I liked what I heard,” said Kim Starble. Kim lost her husband, Dave, of 40 years on February 10th of this year after a long battle with prostate cancer. Together they have three daughters and eight grandkids. She has served as CASA volunteer advocates since being sworn in November 2022, serving in Ottawa County. "The most rewarding part is actually meeting with the children in their foster homes. Interacting and playing on the floor with them and getting to know them. Becoming their friend and someone they can rely on. When I go to visit, I get a hug from each, and the same when I leave. Watching these children light up when I walk into the home is just so amazing, so very rewarding. It feels good knowing that I am a constant in their lives. Some of them have never had anyone to speak for or act on their behalf. Also, watching their physical growth and health improve over time, watching their improvement in school, just the entire growth process when they are in a good situation and things are going well for them,” said Starble. “It can be frustrating when family members are at odds with other family, or fostering families, and there are accusations and there is no trust between them. It all has to be investigated and some of these are false allegations. These times add stress for all including CASA, the CASA volunteer reports directly to the judge in court,’ said Starble. “I stay involved with CASA, for the children because I want to follow through with them. Once again, I want to be their constant,” said Starble. “We want to recognize Kim Starble as the Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for May. She is definitely a strong person. While dealing with her husband’s health situation, she never wavered on being there for the children she was advocating for. Where such a situation might get someone else down, she was determined to be there for the children because she knew they needed her,” said Sandra Rain, Lead Advocate Coordinator for the 12th & 13th Judicial District. “Congratulations to Kim Starble on being selected Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for May!” Something that most people might not know about Kim, who is a retired Registered Nurse with 40 years in the nursing profession, is that she was a ballet dancer (not pro) for many years. Also, she was the first female president of the Eagle Valley Muzzleloaders in Carson City, Nevada. She has a friend who calls her the Ballerina Mountain Woman. If someone is considering becoming a CASA volunteer advocate, I would tell them that if you really have a heart for the children, come and see how you will fit in this organization. Be a part of something very good,” said Starble. The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family. About CASA of Northeast Oklahoma: Incorporated in May 1995, CASA (then Tri-County CASA) was formed serving Rogers, Mayes, and Craig County. It is now a regional program serving six counties (Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Ottawa, Rogers, and Washington) in Oklahoma, plus the Shawnee Tribal Court. CASA of Northeast Oklahoma envisions a world where every abused and neglected child has a CASA volunteer appointed to represent his or her best interests, a world where all children have a safe, permanent home and where children experience improved wellbeing. For more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can help “Change A Child’s Story”, please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time or call 918-923-7276. To make a donation by mail, please write it to CASA of Northeast Oklahoma, 1222 N. Florence Ave., Suite A, Claremore, OK 74017.

National Volunteer Week Is April 17th Thru 23rd

National Volunteer Week is April 17-23. Established in 1974, this special week provides an opportunity to recognize the life-changing difference volunteers like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA volunteers) make in the region. These volunteers help children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect; uprooted from the only family they've known; , taken out of school and away from friends. In short, their worlds are turned upside down. That's where CASA of Northeast Oklahoma comes in. CASA makes sure these children don't face dependency court and foster care alone. We support and promote court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child in northeast Oklahoma who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home and have the opportunity to thrive. "While special weeks like National Volunteer Week and Child Abuse Prevention Month, which also occurs during the month of April, are great reminders to celebrate, we must always be aware that children suffering from abuse and neglect feel the effects longer than this one special week or month," said Angela Henderson, Executive Director. "We must all continue to prioritize the most vulnerable among us, our children." CASA volunteers and staff work every day to help Change A Child's Story. The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and learn and grown in the safe embrace of a loving family. "You might be in a position to becoming a CASA volunteer, make a financial donation, mentor a child in school, or simply offer an encouraging word to a child who is struggling. The point is to get involved. Nothing you do for a child is ever wasted," said Henderson. CASA of Northeast Oklahoma serves Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Ottawa, Rogers and Washington county district courts and the Quapaw Nation and Shawnee tribal courts. Last year, CASA of Northeast Oklahoma served 199 children involving 120 cases with 73 volunteers. There were 22 new volunteers trained. However, many more volunteers are needed. CASA volunteers are people, from all walks of life, who have been thoroughly screened and trained extensively by a local program. Each volunteer receives more than 30 hours of training before they work with a child, with an additional 12 hours of continued education required annually. Volunteers receive ongoing support to help them advocate effectively on a child's behalf. A CASA volunteer, appointed by a judge, provides the court with the comprehensive and objective information the court needs to make the most well-informed decisions and help ensure positive outcomes for children and youth. These individuals not only advocate for children within the court, child welfare and school systems, but also form relationships with them that last for years. CASA volunteers take the time to get to know the children at the heart of each case. They also work in partnership with legal and child welfare professionals, educators, and service providers to ensure that the child has what he or she needs to heal and thrive. "As a foster parent, I witnessed firsthand how much of a benefit it was to have a CASA volunteer assigned to one of our children's cases. Their input was invaluable in a successful outcome for a child," said Mark Ogle, Resource Development & Marketing Coordinator, CASA of Northeast Oklahoma. "So, when offered the opportunity to formally join CASA of Northeast Oklahoma as a staff member, I jumped at the chance. I truly believe when you have an opportunity to help better the life of a child in need, you not only change their life, but that of your community as a whole." For more information regarding CASA of Northeast Oklahoma, the services provided, volunteer opportunities and how you can help Change A Child's Story, please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time or call 918-923-7276. To make a donation by check or money order, please write it to CASA of Northeast Oklahoma, 658 S. Lynn Riggs Blvd., Claremore , OK 74017. Via credit card, please visit https://pp.donorview.com/m4mAw

FRAN BRYANT NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR MARCH 2024

Chris Smiley, Spotlight Volunter Of The Month, February.jpg

CHRIS SMILEY NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping change a child's story. For the month of February, CASA recognizes Christine (Chris) Smiley. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect don’t face dependency court and foster care alone. "What attracted me to get involved with CASA was after I retired from working, I wanted to volunteer my time in an area where I could be of most use. Having been adopted after being abandoned by my birth mother and in a hospital for six months, I realized that there are many children in the same situation where the birth parent is unable or unwilling to raise a child in a safe, nurturing environment. The birth mother does need to be offered the proper resources and assistance to provide her the opportunity to be able to be the mother to her children, offering them love, security and putting their needs first,” said Chris Smiley. Chris and her husband have two sons. She has served as CASA volunteer advocates for ten years, starting in 2014 and recently retiring in 2024. During that time, she served in Mayes County, on 37 cases, involving multiple children in many of her cases. "The most rewarding part is working with the children, giving them a friend during their time of uncertainty and knowing that I have been part of their journey to a successful ending,” said Smiley. “What has been the most frustrating part has been the length of time the children have remained in the system. Often, the parent or parents do not diligently follow the plan set for them by DHS and the children remain in limbo for much too long. Also, it is discouraging to see just how many children suffer for neglect and abuse,” said Smiley. “We want to recognize Chris Smiley, not only as the Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for February but for her entire 10 years as a volunteer advocate serving children in Mayes County,” said Sandra Rain, Lead Advocate Coordinator for the 12th Judicial District. “While the number of cases and children she worked with can be measured, I am not sure anyone can ever accurately measure the true impact she has had through her work in these children’s lives. Congratulations to Chris Smiley on being selected Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for February and for 10 years of child advocacy! Thank You!” Something that most people might not know about Chris is that at 20 years old, she left her small hometown in Pennsylvania and flew to San Francisco. Her plane landed on the day the great earthquake was going to happen, where California was predicted to be separated from its neighboring states and became its own island. Through the hippie era, she lived near Haight Ashbury, with all the political upheaval. It is also where she met and married a Marine stationed there. They have been married for 54 years. The CASA movement is central to fulfilling society's fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family. About CASA of Northeast Oklahoma: Incorporated in May 1995, CASA (then Tri-County CASA) was formed serving Rogers, Mayes, and Craig County. It is now a regional program serving six counties (Craig, Delaware, Mayes, Ottawa, Rogers, and Washington) in Oklahoma, plus the Shawnee Tribal Court. CASA of Northeast Oklahoma envisions a world where every abused and neglected child has a CASA volunteer appointed to represent his or her best interests, a world where all children have a safe, permanent home and where children experience improved wellbeing. For more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can help “Change A Child’s Story”, please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time or call 918-923-7276. To make a donation by mail, please write it to CASA of Northeast Oklahoma, 1222 N. Florence Ave., Suite A, Claremore, OK 74017.

DANA AND KATHY CROW NAMED CASA VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY 2024

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping Change A Child's Story. For the month of January, CASA recognizes the husband-and-wife team of Dana and Kathy Crow. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect don’t face dependency court and foster care alone. "What attracted us to get involved with CASA was that we saw a need for people who love children," said Dana and Kathy Crow. Dana and Kathy have two adult children and four grandchildren. They have served as CASA volunteer advocates for five years, beginning in 2018. They serve in Ottawa County in the 13th Judicial District. "The most rewarding part is the results we have seen. Two of the cases resulted in reunification with their family and one case with the adoption of the child," said the Crows. "What has been the most frustrating part has been the length of time some of our cases were in foster care. The case that eventually resolved in adoption, the children were in the foster system for over four years," they said. "The kids with whom we work motivate us to stay involved. In our first case, the children had no experience with loving adults, and they called us grandpa and grandma," said the Crows. “The Spotlight Volunteer of the Month selection is usually an individual, but in the case of Dana and Kathy Crow, they are definitely a team and need to be recognized as such. Their dedication and enthusiasm working together to help change children's lives for the better is inspiring," said Marsha Gill, Advocate Coordinator for the 13th Judicial District for CASA of Northeast Oklahoma. "Congratulations to Dana and Kathy Crow on being recognized as the CASA of Northeast Oklahoma Spotlight Volunteers of Month for January!” Something most people might not know about Dana and Kathy is that they have been a host family for 13 foreign exchange students through the years. Congratulations Dana and Kathy Crow on being CASA of Northeast Oklahoma’s Spotlight Volunteers of the Month for January! For more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can be a volunteer like Dana and Kathy and help “Change A Child’s Story," please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time.

NANCY GOFORTH NAMED CASA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER 2023

Each month CASA recognizes a volunteer as a Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for their work in helping Change A Child's Story. For the month of December, CASA recognizes Nancy Goforth. CASA volunteers and staff work to help change a child’s story. They work to make sure children who have been taken from their homes because of evidence of abuse and neglect don’t face dependency court and foster care alone. "CASA has been on my heart for at least 10 years. Being a full-time teacher, I wanted to wait until I retired so I could give it the time it deserved. I began volunteering the year after I retired,” said Nancy. Nancy and her husband (now deceased) have two grown children, two granddaughters, one grandson and a grandson on the way in January. She has served as a CASA volunteer advocate for a year and a half. She is currently serving cases in Shawnee Tribal Court. "The most rewarding part is knowing the children’s voices are being heard and respected to be happy, secure and well-adjusted in their living situations,” she said. “I get frustrated when parents don’t do what is in the best interest of their children, placing themselves first,” Nancy said. “I have stayed involved with CASA because it is supported and respected by the individuals in the court system and the work appears to be appreciated and valued by those involved with making a difference in a child’s life,” she said. “I have been so impressed by Nancy. She is assigned to three special needs children currently. She adores the children and they adore her. Nancy’s experience working with children in the school system and through the health department has proven invaluable on this case. She understands the needs of the children on her caseload and has an excellent working relationship with their caregiver,” said Angela Henderson, Executive Director, CASA of Northeast Oklahoma. “Congratulations to Nancy Goforth on being recognized as the CASA of Northeast Oklahoma Spotlight Volunteer of Month for December!” “It takes a lot of leg work to accomplish the goals to ensure the best life for these kids. There is no greater reward than when things begin to fall in place. If someone is interested in becoming a CASA volunteer…JUST DO IT!!! Do it for the children of northeast Oklahoma who need you. You can make a difference! All it takes is a loving heart…and a little paperwork,” said Nancy. Something that most people might not know about Nancy is that she loves to play the guitar and sing with friends who also play different instruments or sometimes just by herself. Congratulations Nancy Goforth on being CASA of Northeast Oklahoma’s Spotlight Volunteer of the Month for December! For more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can be a volunteer like Nancy and help “Change A Child’s Story," please visit www.casaneok.org/volunteer-your-time.