Louisiana CASA Child Advocate of the Year named at ceremony during Together We Can Conference

Mr. Merkle “Skipper” Kornegay became a Volunteer with CASA of Terrebonne, along with his wife, Hilda, in 2006.  CASA of Terrebonne Executive Director, Stacey Martin, recounts that when the Department of Children and Family Services asked for an advocate for a very troubled teen male, first thoughts were of Mr. Kornegay.  That decision proved be to a very important one in the life of this teen, who maintains a relationship with Mr. Kornegay some two years after her “aged out”of the foster care system.  Mr. Kornegay devoted much time to building a relationship with the teen and his foster parents.  When the young man became involved in some delinquent activity, his CASA, was right there, calling DCFS and attorneys, writing letters to the Judge and visiting him in the jail.  He tirelessly advocated for the young man until he received the help he so desperately needed.

Mr. Kornegay devotes his time, effort and expertise to the mission of CASA in other ways, as well.  He sits on CASA of Terrebonne’s Board and Fundraising Committee and represents CASA at public speaking engagments.

Thank you for your devotion to the children we serve and congratulations on your accomplishments.