Plenty of ‘new' with local CASA agency
By ERIC WALKER
Editor
"New" is the buzz word for CASA these days.
There's a new board chair for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (although it's her fourth go-around as chair), a new office location (in the Maple Center), four new faces on the board, and a new area that the youth advocacy organization oversees (Marshall County).
And a new director too.
"I feel so blessed to have this opportunity," said Karen Darnell, CASA new executive director. "I'm ready to roll up my sleeves."
Darnell's been doing plenty of that. Wednesday, she and chair Donna Herndon were putting finishing touches on CASA's new office.
"We're so pleased to have someone with a committment to children, especially children in special circumstances, and with the education and professional background," said Herndon. "I think that will be an asset to CASA."
CASA was developed in 1977 by a judge in Washington to make sure children and their information were represented in cases of dependency, abuse and neglect and that the child's best interests were taken into account by the court system.
Darnell, the wife of Kenny Darnell, recently retired from education, where her focus had been on special education and the Murray Learning Academy dealing with dropout prevention. Those areas have had a special draw on her and serving children.
"I've been waiting for a door to open and this seemed like a perfect match for me," she said. "I've been a strong advocate for students and I'm thrilled to continue as an advocate.
"It warms my heart to be able to reach out and serve."
According to information provided by the local CASA office, they have 19 active volunteers who are currently serving 37 children in both Calloway and Marshall counties. Those vounteers stay with their assigned case throug the entire court procedure, provide reports and may also be called to testify in court.
In the previous year, they represented 69 children.
Part-time volunteer coordinator Cindy Graves said those interested in volunteering for CASA are welcome to contact the agency (761-0164).
“We couldn't exist without our volunteers,” Graves said.
They explained that volunteers would go through more than 30 hours of orientation and that at least two classes for volunteers are held each year. One is expected to be held this fall.
Calloway-Marshall CASA, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, is also preparing for a weekend retreat that will include a visit Friday by Kentucky CASA director Alex Blevins and a retreat Saturday.
Herndon also noted new CASA board members Karen Guthrie, Keith Travis, treasurer Ken Shadowen and Melanie Thompson. They will join vice-chair Peg Munke, secretary Michelle Hansen, Mark Anderson, Jennifer Apple, Jean Bennett, Phil Hazle, Mark Kennedy, Ron McGregor, Paul Philbee, Paul Randolph, Amy Roos, Wendy Swalls, Martin Tracy and Bill Wells.
Story created Aug 14, 2008 - 12:03:54 EDT.
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