CASA Legislative Reception
2009

CASA of Montana Board member Joyce Funda speaks with Montana
State Representative Dick Barrett of Missoula, HD 93.

Montana Legislators and staff attended the CASA Reception at
Jorgenson's on January 15th. From Left: Rep. Steenson (HD 8) and Page
Kassaundra Luberts, both of Kalispell; Speaker of the House
Rep. Bergren (HD 33) of Havre.

CASA - Advocates for Kids in Helena Celebrates 10 Years

District Judge Tom Honzel will step down in January 2009 after 24 years of
service to children in the Helena area.

The Helena CASA program reached a milestone in November - ten full years of service to the local community! On this anniversary, CASA-Advocates for Kids recognized the many players in the child welfare system without whom the "child's voice in the courtroom" might not be heard.

The annual CASA Appreciation Luncheon was held on Wednesday December 10. This year local foster mom Irene Fenalson, and some of her fellow foster parents provided the food and a thank you for the hard work CASA volunteers do on behalf of children.  The occasion also honored the very noteworthy careers of District Court Judge Tom Honzel and Deputy County Attorney Carolyn Clemens, who are unfortunately stepping down from their important positions.

The well-attended event also honored CASA Director Bill Collins and was featured on the front page of the Helena Independent Record. You can read the article, written by CASA volunteer Alana Listoe, here.

New Advocates Sworn In

New volunteers sworn in in Great Falls.

The CASA-CAN program in Great Falls recently trained ten new volunteer advocates. They were sworn in by District Court Judge Thomas McKittrick on November 6, 2008. In Missoula, fourteen new CASAs finished their training on November 5, 2008. The training culminated in the 2nd Annual Harvest potluck for new trainees, existing CASAs, Board and staff. The 6th Judicial District is expecting around ten participants at their trainings in early November, and the Lake County program will swear in three new volunteers later in the month.

It's easy to become an advocate for kids. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life and range in age from 24-80. New volunteer trainings will be going on at many of our local programs this winter, dates will be posted on our events calendar as soon as they are set. In the meantime, please check out our Volunteer page above for more information about how you can get involved.

National CASA 2009 Conference

NCASA Now Accepting Nominations for Awards of Excellence

National CASA Awards of Excellence: Honor Programs and Individuals Taking Advocacy to a Higher Level

The National CASA Awards of Excellence recognize the exceptional contributions and dedication of child advocates, program directors, judges and board members, as well as the efforts of CASA/GAL programs striving to enhance diversity and inclusiveness.  Winning programs receive a $1,500 cash award.  Read more about the award categories and benefits to awardees and download a nomination packet at casanet.org/conference.  

New Recognition: CASA/GAL Network Promising Practices Spotlights!

Promising Practices Spotlights highlight original activities, projects or events that enhance the CASA/GAL program’s ability to deliver on the mission of providing court-appointed volunteer advocacy to abused and neglected children. More than one program may be highlighted each year.

Firm deadline: All nomination packets must be received by National CASA by November 30, 2008.

Other Announcements

• In 2009, National CASA is increasing the volunteer discount!  Save $70 for being an active CASA/GAL volunteer. 
• Registration and hotel prices are now available online at casanet.org/conference.  Registration will be available in December 2008. 
• Exhibitor registration will be available at casanet.org/conference in November. Contact the sales manager by email, sandy@nationalcasa.org, with questions.

National CASA is offering scholarships again this year!  Applications will be available at casanet.org/conference in early November.