CASA Heroes
Louisiana CASA Honors “Special” Heroes for Outstanding Efforts in 2009!
LACASA, in partnership with its member programs, once again honored outstanding individuals for their service to children through CASA. Although we value all of the outstanding volunteers, staff, and stakeholders we work with, CASA wanted to present special recognition for those individuals who have gone that extra mile for children.
In 2009, the honorees were recognized at a special CASA Awards Night held at the Vermillionville in Lafayette. There was food, music, and tears of joy as recipients were surprised or overcome at the event.
Judge of the Year- Honorable Judge Charles L. Porter
Speaking at local community organizations, awareness events, or training sessions for CASA volunteers, Honorable Judge Charles L. Porter is an outspoken supporter for CASA of the 16th JDC. He is known for his kindness and the respectful temperance offered to all families that enter his courtroom.
Volunteer Advocate of the Year- Russ Rehm
Russ Rehm has been a volunteer with New Orleans CASA since 1003. In that time he has had three cases. Whether it is traveling 10 hours to visit a child, compiling information for a youth aging out of foster care, or mentoring new CASA volunteers through the Orleans Parish court System, this Quiet Hero readily places aside the inconveniences of his own life to assist our most vulnerable assets, abused and neglected children in the foster care system.
Executive Director of the Year- Rob Carlisle
Rob Carlisle has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities by effectively managing a 25-member staff to give voice, healing, and security to children in the 10 parishes served by Child Advocacy Services.
Program Staff of the Year- Dana Wolcott
A gifted speaker with a tremendous ability to tailor the CASA message to her audience, Dana Wolcott heightens the community’s awareness of issues facing abused and neglected children and CASA’s role in advocating for the best interests of children.
Board Member of the Year- Hugh Daschbach
A decade of service with CASA began with a donation on behalf of Hugh Daschbach from his four sons in as a Christmas gift. Shortly afterward, Hugh saw an advertisement for CASA volunteers, and inquired about becoming a volunteer. Over 10 years, he has supervised more than five cases serving over 10 children.
Office of Community Service (OCS) Staff Member of the Year- William Cezar
William Cezar has a strong desire to help people better themselves and their situations. He is a dedicated worker for the Iberville/West Baton Rouge OCS office, going well beyond what is expected to provide service for his clients.
Media Professional of the Year- Cathye Davis
Through the professional expertise offered by Cathye Davis of The Radio People in Monroe, the CASA message reached thousands of people. Cathye is proof that with a little money and a lot of heart, there are few limitations on what can be accomplished.
Diversity Award of the Year- Capital Area CASA
While 45% of the population of East Baton Rouge Parish is African American, 90% of the children served by CASA are African American. Capital Area CASA came to understand the importance of the CASA program – staff, board of directors and advocates – becoming more culturally competent in all areas.