CASA celebrates 30th anniversary with dinner

CASA of Southern Oklahoma held an anniversary and appreciation dinner on September 30, 2021, at the Chickasaw Lake Club in Ardmore. The wonderful and exciting night was to celebrate 30 years of making a difference in children’s lives and honoring the volunteers for their hard work, dedication, and time they share with children in the community.

CASA honored their volunteers, who by their deliberate efforts better the lives of children and help to provide a foundation that supports a better community. The presenter shared some amazing statistics. Between January 1, 2020, through September 1, 2021, CASA has served 139 children. The other statistics are as follows: 27 children reunified, 23 adopted out, and 11 placed with a guardian.

There have been 48 volunteers working in the time frame, with 2,865.87 served and 20,018.70 miles traveled.

These numbers are amazing just like the CASA staff, Ruanne DiMiceli (director), Amy Martens (advocate supervisor), Taylor Roring (advocate coordinator), and Connie Grant (office assistant).

Guests of the dinner listened to the two guest speakers, Judge Dennis Morris and Assistant District Attorney Melissa Handke.

Several volunteers were awarded a Noble Years of Service Award for serving from five to 25 years as a volunteer. The National CASA Association for Children supports and promotes court-appointed advocacy for children and youth who have experienced abuse or neglect. CASA believes that every child should be given the opportunity to thrive in a safe and loving home.

Studies have shown that children who have experienced abuse or neglect fare better with a CASA volunteer by their side. Having a caring adult advocate for their best interest can make a lasting difference for a child.

For anybody wanting to become a CASA volunteer, please contact the Ardmore CASA office at 580-226-0009.

“If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded,” May Angelou.