SAVANNAH/CHATHAM CASA, INC
2013 ANNUAL REPORT
Program Achievements
Savannah/Chatham CASA is recognized as a member program of the National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association and an affiliate program of Georgia Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc. About Georgia CASA, Inc. Georgia Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc. develops and supports court-sanctioned, community-based affiliate programs that provide trained and supervised volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in juvenile court deprivation proceedings. In 2013, Georgia CASA celebrated its 25th anniversary! During the past 25 years with over 20,000 CASA volunteers and 47 program affiliates, Georgia CASA has helped over 93,000 abused and neglected children. On an annual basis, CASA volunteers in Georgia spend over 145,000 hours working with children. This is an amazing testament to how valuable and crucial the CASA program is to Georgia's child welfare system, as CASA volunteers speak out and stand up for the best interests of these children every day. About the National CASA Association The National CASA Association is a network of 946 programs what are recruiting, training and supporting volunteers to represent the best interests of abused and neglected children in the courtroom and other settings.
Program Achievements Message from Board Chair and Executive Director Dear CASA Supporters: Anytime a child is abused or neglected, it is a tragedy – one that all too often scars victims for a lifetime. The latest statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are sobering:
Child Protective Services agencies across the United States received some 3.4 million referrals of abuse or neglect involving 6.3 million children in 2012. An estimated 1,640 children died from child abuse or neglect in 2012, nearly three-quarters of them younger than age three. In Georgia, 33 children are the victims of confirmed abuse or neglect, and 200 incidents of child abuse and neglect are reported daily.
Studies have shown that children who have suffered abuse or neglect are more likely to struggle in school, have run-ins with law enforcement, experience homelessness or abuse drugs or alcohol. Research also shows that abused children are more apt to grow up to abuse their own children. At Savannah/Chatham CASA, we help abused and neglected children heal so they can live happier, safer lives. Our CASA volunteers make sure children do not get lost in the overburdened legal and social service systems or languish in unsupportive foster homes. CASA volunteers stay with children until their court case is closed and the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. In 2013, thirty new volunteers were trained to meet the needs of children involved in the child welfare system. Sixty-nine volunteers donated over 1,650 hours and – combined with our staff – 315 children in our community received advocacy efforts on their behalf. By showcasing this annual report, we invite our community to learn more about the work we do and consider becoming a CASA volunteer or Friend of CASA. Each day we seek additional partnerships and assistance to support our program through fundraisers, initiatives and volunteerism. We challenge you to learn more about CASA and stand with us in demanding an end to child abuse and neglect. Working together, we can end abuse and neglect so that every child has a chance to thrive. Sincerely,
Ryan Sewell 2014 Board Chair
ZaDonna M. Slay Executive Director
Program Program Achievements Overview Mission The mission of the Savannah/Chatham Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Inc. is to provide training and supervision to volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are under the jurisdiction of the Chatham County Juvenile Court.
Our Philosophy& Methodology A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of an abused or neglected child involved in juvenile court dependency proceedings. The CASA volunteer gathers information about the child’s situation, attends court proceedings and makes a recommendation to the judge so that the judge has the information to make a decision about the child’s future. A CASA volunteer protects a child’s right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family. Cases are referred to Savannah/Chatham CASA when a dependency referral is received by the juvenile court. As defined by the Chatham County Juvenile Court, a dependency referral is a referral regarding a child who is or has been:
Without parental care or control Not receiving subsistence Not receiving an education as required by law Without other care or control necessary for physical, mental, or emotional health, or morals
Placed for care or adoption in violation of law Abandoned by parents or other legal custodian Without a parent, guardian or custodian
Risk factors for the children we serve are categorized by the type of dependency, which include but are not limited to:
Physical abuse Sexual abuse Emotional abuse Neglect
Neglect due to medical reasons Substance abuse of a parent Mental or physical impairment of a parent Domestic violence
Responsibilities of a CASA Volunteer • • • •
• • • •
Visit the child Explain the role of a CASA volunteer Keep the child informed of all aspects of the court proceedings Gather independent information about the child to make recommendations to the judge in the child’s best interests Seek cooperative solutions with other participants in the child’s case Interview the parents, guardians or caretakers, social worker and other service providers Review records related to the family Prepare written reports for court hearings
• • • • • • • •
Attend and participate in court hearings and other related meetings Identify potential resources within the family and community to meet the child’s needs Keep all records and information confidential Monitor provisions of service plans and court orders Ensure the child’s wishes are known to the judge Advocate for the child in the community Consult with local CASA program staff for support and guidance Maintain focus on the child until permanency is achieved
Benefits of Being a CASA As a CASA volunteer, you will ultimately help to change a child’s life for a brighter future. You can help to end the cycle of abuse and neglect. Among many other benefits, you will have an opportunity to learn about the juvenile court system and become actively involved in your community.
Program Program Achievements Overview A Solution that Works CASA/GAL volunteers make sure that the abuse and neglect that the children originally suffered at home does not continue as abuse and neglect at the hands of the system. Better Outcomes Proven for Children Low CASA caseloads mean the courts can make better decisions for children. CASA volunteers handle just 1 or 2 cases at a time so that they can give each child the sustained, personal attention he or she deserves. Children with CASA volunteers spend 7.5 months less in foster care, experience fewer out of home placements and have significantly improved educational performance. More than 90% of children with CASA volunteers never reenter the child welfare system, a significant difference compared to the general foster care population. This outcome also results in significant savings in child welfare expenses. Cost Effectiveness In 2012, CASA volunteers nationwide contributed 5.4 million advocacy hours, equivalent to $270 million in taxpayer dollars if compensated for their service. Federal funding for one staff supervisory position within a local CASA program supports 30 trained volunteer workers, assigned to 75+ children’s cases within a year – a 75 to 1 return on investment. By reducing long-term placements, subsequent victimization, and reentry into the foster care system, CASA substantially reduces child welfare costs. High Quality Advocacy With a limited number of available volunteers, judges assign CASA/GAL volunteers to their most difficult and complex cases: those with prior maltreatment or contact with child welfare, cases of extreme neglect, physical or sexual abuse, and those where children have a great level of risk. CASA volunteers are far more likely than paid attorneys to visit children in their homes, to investigate whether there are appropriate services for the child or family, and to monitor delivery of services. CASA volunteers assure that the court and child welfare systems remain focused on children’s wellbeing, assuring that the specific needs of individual children, including their needs for safety and permanency are addressed expeditiously. Efficiency Since CASA is a program of citizen volunteers, funds invested deliver a quick and impressive return in terms of children served within communities.
Program Survey
In 2013, CASA volunteers, board members, stakeholders, and social service agencies, participated in a program satisfaction survey conducted by Data Advantage. Findings of this survey concluded the following:
Most volunteers, board members, and stakeholders hold positive attitudes toward the CASA role, program operation and administration, and working relationships. Volunteers expressed interest in improving relationships and communication with DFCS and GALs, as well as expanding their knowledge of the local social service system. Volunteers are very motivated to help their clients. 92% of the legal community and stakeholders are satisfied that CASA volunteers make a positive impact in the lives of their children.
Program Program Achievements Achievements Volunteer Management Savannah-Chatham CASA Announced 2012 Volunteer of the Year Ms. Dozier was a huge champion for our progressive change and continued to work with the same degree of professionalism. In her 12 years serving as CASA for over 20 children, Ms. Dozier remained steadfast and compassionate in her dealings with her children and families. She really epitomizes the term "team player." Many of the children that she represented years ago still keep in touch with her and they regard one another as family. She truly kept the best interest of her CASA children in the front of her mind and never shied away from asking tough questions. Ms. Dozier was a true asset to CASA and has handled many difficult situations with class and tact. We thank Gwendolyn Dozier for all that she did as a CASA Advocate with our program.
Local Advocates Selected for Advocates Advisory Panel Savannah/Chatham CASA announced the new members of their Advocate Advisory Panel. The new members were: Sandra Bath, Gwendolyn Dozier, Erica Dyal, Ellaree Holmes, and Ericka Walden. These CASA advocates were nominated by CASA Advocacy Coordinators. The members will serve one year with possible extension for continuity. The purpose of Advocate Advisory Panel is to create an expanded role for advocates and to contribute ideas based on experience which would serve to strengthen relationships and improve the program overall. The group will meet quarterly and as needed to accomplish key responsibilities. Advocates that are qualified for this position are in good standing and meet requirments such as earning the required annual 12 in-service hours, submitting timely court reports and monthly reports, and who have served the program for at least one year.
CASA Day at the Capitol Advocacy Coordinator Martin Ward, from Savannah/Chatham CASA attended the annual "CASA Day at the Capitol" event in Atlanta. The day included House and Senate resolutions to celebrate 25 years of the CASA program in Georgia. The group also met with Rep. Al Williams of District 168 and other legislative delegation members from across the state to ask for support of CASA, child welfare issues and the children's code rewrite.
Savannah/Chatham CASA Recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Savannah/Chatham CASA hosted a series of community events to include an Open House and Swearing In to promote the mission and purpose of CASA. All events were open to the public to attend. Other events included a CASA charity night at Moe’s and Chick-fil-A. The month culminated with a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast and Annual Meeting at Woodville-Tompkins High School. Savannah/Chatham CASA, Inc. sponsored annual Backto-School Supply Drive Starting a new year of school is always fun, but can also be nerve-wracking for many students. A new school year means new teachers, new classmates, and more challenging homework. Imagine having to start the New Year with no school supplies? Having inadequate or no school supplies hinders a child's ability to excel in the classroom and fit in. That's where the community can step in and make a difference! As the summer kicked off,
Program Achievements Savannah/Chatham County Court Appointed Advocates (CASA), Inc. held their annual Back-to-School Drive to collect donated items to help our community’s foster children begin their school year with the necessary items to succeed. Backpacks were provided to all school-aged children in the local program. Students from Savannah Country Day School assisted in the preparation of backpacks for the children. Savannah/Chatham CASA Welcomes New Members The local program held three successful trainings in 2013. These volunteers have successfully completed the 40hour national training and passed all background check requirements. The Honorable Patricia Parker Stone presided over the brief ceremonies in April, August, and October. Thirty individuals have committed themselves to advocating for the safety and permanency of our abused and neglected children in the community. They are: Dana Bertagnolli, Dotti Black, Hassanah Bolton, Janie Brooks, Ellen Cayer, Carmen Delgado, Samantha Fay, Tim Forbes, Howie Gaynor, Paul Henderson, Angel, Jackson, Willie Jackson, Shenika Johnson, Sebra D. Jones, Sumerlin Larsen-Lesperance, Brandy Mai, Danielle Mearis, Karen Monsanto, Qu’ Shon Nelson, Juliann Rogers, Lee Ann Rushing, Jenny Rutherford, Darryl Griffin-Simmons, Gary Shelby, Vanito Smith. Sharon Spaulding, Kimberly Sullivan, Sarah Ullrich, Jennifer Wall, and Kristina Wrenn.
Fund Development CASA Received Grant from Local Church CASA was awarded a $1,000 grant through the Marie Fehrenkamp Income Fund of the Lutheran Church of the Ascension. The support of this donation will be used for the recruitment of additional volunteers to be able to serve 100% of referrals from the Juvenile Court. CASA donation from CarMax Savannah Leaders from the Savannah community gathered with CarMax associates to attend its grand opening. The event included a "Road Rally" for charity featuring local television personalities competing in contests, which included parallel-parking and pack-the-trunk events. CarMax donated $1,000 to each participant's charity. The CarMax Road Rally participants and their charity of choice included Savannah's WTOC Traffic Tracker Jamie Ertle who sponsored Savannah/Chatham CASA.
Community Partnerships CASA elected 2013 Executive Members The Board of Directors elected their 2013 Executive Committee: Chairperson, Ryan Sewell (Bernard Williams Company); Vice-Chairperson, Stephanie Mobley (Savannah Power Yoga); Secretary, Joy Youngblood (Re/Max Savannah Realty); Treasurer, Vernon Taylor, Jr. (Memorial University Medical Center); and Recording Secretary, Yvonne Hafer (CASA Volunteer Advocate). Savannah/Chatham CASA welcomed six new board members in April. The new appointees are Kate Blair (Wells Fargo Insurance Services), Emily Dickinson (Wet Willie's Management Corporation), Tom Hartridge (Willis Insurance Services of Georgia), Chad Jacobs (BB&T), Dr. Katy Moretz (Savannah Neurology Specialists), and Kaitlyn Slate (Armstrong Atlantic State University).
Program Achievements Savannah/Chatham County CASA, Inc. Faith-Based Initiative In January 2013, Savannah/Chatham CASA began working with community and faith-based agencies around Savannah to educate personnel and volunteers on the signs of child abuse and neglect and the responsibilities and rights of a mandated reporter. The mission of the Faith-Based Initiative is to collaborate with churches, mosques, and synagogues in the community to spread awareness about the purpose of CASA provide training about the new mandated reporter law and collaborate with congregations in serving all the children in our foster care and child welfare system. Thank you to the following churches for joining the CASA movement as a faith-based partner:
First African Baptist Church Lutheran Church of the Ascension New Covenant Church Second Arnold Missionary Baptist Church Skidaway Island United Methodist Church St. James Baptist Church St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Thankful Missionary Baptist Church The Royal Church of Christ, Inc. LifeBridge Church Second Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church
Life Bridge Church Partnership
As apart of our faith-based initiative, we would like to thank LifeBridge Church for their support and their donation of $6,000 to benefit the Savannah/Chatham CASA organization through their "Be Rich" giving campaign. Life Bridge is a non-denominational church that is a strategic partner with North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Their mission is to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ; their vision is to be a church that unchurched people love to attend.
th
6 Annual Dancing with Savannah Stars
Thursday, November 14, 2013 concluded a twelve-week fundraising period for eight of Savannah's Stars during the 6th Annual Dancing with Savannah Stars. Through an overwhelming support of event sponsors, donors and attendees, Savannah/Chatham CASA exceeded its goal of $80,000 raised to sustain programming needs and resources for abused and neglected children in the child welfare system.
Congratulations to the winners of the evening, Best Male Dancer, Kevin Cartee of Cartee Image Consultants; Best Female Dancer, Dr. Claudia Gaughf of Chatham Skin and Cancer Center; Top Fundraiser of over $15,000 raised, Dr. Claudia Gaughf. We applaud the efforts of each of our 2013 Savannah Stars, to include: Dr. Michael Bossak of The Children's Hospital at Memorial Health; Stephanie Burgess, Esquire of the Burgess Law Group, LLC; Vernon Donovan of State Farm Insurance; Lynda Figueredo of WTOC; Terry Lemmons of Willis Insurance Services; and Monique Palmaccio of McDonald's/Palmaccio Management Group. Endless gratitude to our local area professional ballroom studios for lending their time, dancers, practice space, and talents to make our Savannah Stars shine! Participating ballrooms this year included: Salon de Baile, Essi's Ballroom Dance Studio, Synergistic Bodies, and Savannah Ballroom. Many cheers to our judges for the evening: Magic Marc, Amber Reich, and Robert Baugniet. Also, a very special thanks to our host Sonny Dixon.
Program Achievements A special thank you to our sponsors! Foxtrot Sponsors: Palmaccio Management Group (McDonald's) and Wet Willie’s. Rumba Sponsors: Chatham Steel, International Paper, Register Law Firm, Southern Motors, and Wells Fargo. Waltz Sponsors: Bart, Meyer & Company, LLP, Pediatria HealthCare for Kids, Willis Group, and Great Dane Trailers. Media Sponsors: Cumulus Broadcasting, Izzy Hudgins Photography, Savannah Tribune, South Magazine, and WTOC-TV. Kick-Off Host and Sponsor: Mansion on Forsyth Martini's @ the Mansion.
Donation of Soles The Lutheran Church of the Ascension sponsored 60 school-aged children with a new pair of shoes for winter from a local Payless Shoe store. Thank you to our CASA volunteer, Dorinda Duggan, for her continued efforts coordinating the annual donation.
CASA Holiday Social In an effort to strengthen the relationship between CASA Board of Directors, staff and advocates, a select group of CASA volunteers and staff planned a holiday social that was catered with light food by Wet Willie’s. This endeavor gave the board members an opportunity to learn first-hand experiences from our advocates of the time and commitment spent towards our children in care. Local elected officials also attended this celebration to commemorate a great year of serving over 300 children during the holidays. Each attendee received a CASA keepsake ornament in appreciation of their dedication to our program. It is an event the program is looking to host routinely to show appreciation to our CASAs! Toy Drive
Kiwanis Club Savannah/Chatham CASA was a beneficiary of a $1000 donation by the Kiwanis Club of Skidaway Island for our efforts to purchase several Just for Now: Kids and the People of the Court picture book for our children. This book was created in a collaborative effort with over 250 professional and volunteer advocates. It answers all the questions about this uncertain time through an entertaining story for youth about how a group of foster kids who befriended one another during their time in care.
An annual initiative of Savannah/Chatham CASA is the Secret Santa campaign in which we solicit the support of area businesses, social groups, churches and individuals who sponsor the holiday wishes of one or more of our children in care. Our Secret Santas are confidentially paired with a child or sibling group of their choice. The Santas shop for the wishes of the child and in turn, their CASA volunteer delivers the presents to the gifts as a special delivery from Santa! Our community partners are selfless in their efforts to reward children with a brighter smile and sense of belongingness during the holiday season. We would like to thank all of the organizations, groups and individuals who assisted us in a hefty process that turns our office into a satellite workshop for Santa each December.
Program Achievements 2013 Program Statistics CASA Volunteers Savannah/Chatham CASA managed 69 active volunteers.
Racial Demographics African 4%
4% 38%
Full-time Part-time
American White
29%
Multi-Racial
19%
54%
Male/Female
Employment
Hispanic or Latino
45%
20%
Students Not Employed Retired
Male Female
80%
6% 1%
Quick Facts
30 new CASA volunteers were trained in 2013. A volunteer remains active with our program for an average of 5 years.
Volunteers donated 1,668 hours to the program. Advocates traveled 19,172 miles in 2013.
Children Served Savannah/Chatham served 315 children from January – December 2013. Ninety-two children were new children assigned to a CASA volunteer. CASA staff provided services to 46 children. In 2013, 120 children had cases closed with program.
Racial Demographics 5%
6% 0%
Age
Birth to 5
Male/Female
White American Indian or Alaska Native Mulit-Raical
0% 29%
African American
6 to 11
5%
9%
12 to 15 14%
46% 16 to 17
26%
60%
Male
49% 51%
Female
18 and Above
Hispanic or Latino
Quick Facts
Average length of time a CASA volunteer is assigned to a child is 19-24 months. Permanency Achieved: o 22% adopted; 1% placed with legal guardians; 2% long term foster care; 40% were reunified; 3% aged out of the system; 22% long-term kinship care; 2% other.
Program Achievements 2013 Program Statistics Children in Chatham County Every child in foster care deserves the support and advocacy of a CASA volunteer. As community partners in the child welfare system, CASA volunteers increase abused and neglected children’s access to services, promote safety, and advocate for timeliness and permanency for children involved in juvenile court proceedings. CASA volunteers are independent advocates and provide individualized attention for children in a massive state system.
Qualifications for a CASA Volunteer are: • Sincere care for the well-being of children • At least 21 years of age • Pass criminal background checks • Good verbal & written communication skills
• • •
Ability to be objective & non-judgmental Available to attend all court hearings Commitment to CASA program for at least 1 year or preferably until case is resolved
Statistics about Children in Chatham County According to the Chatham County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS),
At the beginning of state fiscal year 2013*, 303 children were in custody due to abuse or neglect. 124 entered custody during state fiscal year 2013. 174 exited care during state fiscal year 2013. A total of 427 children were in the custody of DFCS and served during state fiscal year 2013. At the end of state fiscal year 2013, 253 children remained in care. *State fiscal year is July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2013 Source: SFY2013 HB1406
Program Achievements 2013 Financial Information ASSETS Current Assets BB&T – Checking Grant – GA CASA 2013-2014 Grant – VOCA 2013-2014 Grant – DHS 2014 United Way Receivable Wal-Mart Gift Card
$142,761.00 46,123.10 25,000.00 51,116.25 3,102.69 75.82
Total Current Assets
$268,178.86
REVENUE Federal Funding
Fundraising Events
Direct Public Support
10% 24%
Property and Equipment Furniture and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation Total Property and Equipment
TOTAL ASSETS
66%
$13,917.81 (8,420.00) $5,497.81
$273,676.67
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Current Liabilities Accounts Payable Accrued Payroll Expense
$5,567.18 6,294.82
Total Current Liabilities
$11,862.00
Total Liabilities
$11,862.00
EXPENDITURES Volunteer Support
Fundraising
13%
NET ASSETS
38%
Unrestricted Net Assets Net Income (Loss)
$205,265.83 58,548.84
Total Net Assets
$261,814.67
TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSET
Administrative & Management
$273,676.67
49%
Program Achievements 2013 Donor List Beacon of Light ($1,000 & above) Kim Adler Scott & Claudia Birthisel Katherine Blair Karen Bogans Mike Bossak Warren Boyle Stephanie Burgess, Esq. CarMax Auto Superstores, Inc. The Chatham Skin & Cancer Center Christina Cronin Emily Dickinson Marc Dunston Lynda Figueredo Toby Friedman Chris & Yvonne Hafer Amy Henderson Kiwanis Club of Skidaway Lutheran Church of the Ascension John Palmaccio Monique Palmaccio The Rail Pub Register Law Firm Jerome Rooney O.C. Welch Wells Fargo Advisors
Champion ($500 - $999) Maureen Dascall Roseann Datre First Christian Church Brandie Fuller Michael Hostilo, LLC Terry Lemmons Chris Letsinger Leilani Lowry McDonald's Jenny Rutherford Select Marketing Services Holly Snuggerud Susan West
Guardian ($250 - $499) Joann Benton Patricia H. Besten Braddy Electric Company, Inc. Chris Brown Chick-fil-A Pooler The Honorable Hermann Coolidge, Jr. William Dascombe, MD
John Davis Vernon Donovan John G. Kennedy Foundation, Inc. Gamma Sigma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Lee & Roseann Hooper Hutson Plumbing Company, Inc. Shannon Mercier Katherine Moretz Truman Nash Sheila O'Connor Rhonda & David Oliver Ira & Nancy Ruby Barrie Ruland Ryan Sewell Weimar Construction Co., Inc. Al Winters Michael Wysocki
Advocate ($100 - $249) Matthew & Michelle Allan Douglas Andrews Anthony & Merri Avino Shannon Bacon Robin Baldwin Joanne Barbera The Honorable John W. Beam, Jr. Lisa Bell Cletus Bergen Colleen Bibby Nancy Birkheimer Asset Black, LLC Andy Blair Andrea Bossak Andrew & Nicole Bossak William & Janet Bossak Stephanie Brighton Alicia Briscoe Luis & Maritza Cabrera Olympia Cafe Rosa Carpenter Kevin Cartee Chu's Convenience Mart Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery, P.C. Charles Compton Ms. Denise Cooper, Esq. Counter Fitters, LLC Tim Cox Dale Critz, Jr. Reema Crosby George & Nancy Dancu Gary Davis
Sonny Dixon Peter Doliber Mark Dukes Laura Eggers Kaveh & Patricia Ehsanipoor The Eichholz Law Firm Patricia Elizalde Gallery Espresso Laine Eubank Natalie Evans Fleet Feet Ronald & Cheryl Finger Sandra Fitzsimmons Doug Foran Paige Gantt Howard Gaynor Marie Gibbons Robert Glisson Graham Capital Partners LLC Richard & Robin Greco Lynda Green Gulfstream Retiree Club Yusus Hameed Keith Hamilton Donnie Harrelson Thomas Hartridge Edward Heiser Linda Henry Erica Herndon Natalie Hogan Marsha Hoilman Bracey & Susan Holland Robert Howard Steve Johnson Martin and Annette Johnston Shirley Jones Melanie L. Jordan John Kane Lisa Kelley Adam Kennedy Christina Ketron Chris Kirkpatrick LHMS, Incorporated Alfred Lang Meri Lobel Mary Jill Lockwood Greywolf Logistics, Inc. Port City Logistics Lowcountry Custom Built Homes, Inc. Patricia Lyons MD Tech Pro Low Country, Inc. Markesh Manocha
Program Achievements 2013 Donor List Jennifer Marino Carla McCorvey Denise McCoy Alexis McGlynn Kelly Miller Stephen Miller Williamson Millworks, Inc. Juan Moncada-Gomez Daniel Most Carl Murray, Jr. David & Mindy Nash Melissa Neil Brent Nevil Lindsay Norman Kenette Pamphile-St.Gourdin Greg Parker Eric Pearlman Bruce Peterson F. Christopher Pettigrew, M.D., P.C. Prom Management Group, Inc. Michele Rakoff David & Mandy Reed Starr Ritchie Teresa Robinson The Savannah Bank Savannah Vascular & Cardiac Institute Allen Searson JC & Nancy Shambaugh Samantha Sims Sidney Smith Southern Allergy & Asthma Juliane Spisso Brian Stafford Kay Stanley Dana Stevens Vernon Taylor Cody & Nicki Tharpe Laura Vose Rufus Wallace World of Home Fitness
Friends of Children ($99 and below) Sally Arman Manuel Arosemena Lauren Ashley Eileen St. Aubin Pamela Balmer-Murphy Jason Bartek Barry & Carrie Bazemore Melissa Beauchamp
Mac Beauchat Tamara Bennett-Thompson Cortney Benton Cletus Bergen, II John P. Berlon Heather Bink Jim Boyd Ashley Boyette Paul Bradley Hazel Brown Raul Buelvas Danielle Burgess Harrison Burgess Torrence Burgess The Honorable LeRoy Burke, III Michelle Burnham Erika Carlson Shevon Carr Silvia Cartagena Ed Case Lora Chance Leticia Chaparro Charles W. Bell & Associates, P.C. Chatham County Department of Family and Children Services Chatham County Youth Commission The Cinnamon Bear Group, Inc. Sommer Clark Connie Cooper Mary Corbett Chris Corinthian Falen Cox Tabatha Crawford Lindsay Curran Gisele Davis Steve Davis Bonnie Deaton Cherie Dennis Danna Dennis Deborah Dixon Emily Dixon Judy Dunn Carisa Elmore Donna Evans Sarah Ezelle Jeffrey Fasy Patrick Ferreira Wenona Fields Greg Finch Denisse Fisher Bret Flanders Marsha Fogarty
Tim Forbes Barbara Foster Wendy Furey Artsys Gallery, LLC Homer Garrison Kelly Garrison Richard Geriner Jessica Ghormley Lisa Goodman Charla Gorman Bryan & Charlene Greenhaw Kenton Griner Barbara Gunness Randy Gunter Bradley Hallen Heather Harmon Tina Harper Robert Harris John Harty Hal Hayes Yusmari Hernandez Patty Hoffman Martin Hogan Mike Holland Alison Huffman Amy Hughes Sharon Hughes Celia Irvine Angela Jacobs Robert Jacobs Matthew Janisch Allyson Jenkins DeShawn Jenkins Virginia Jennings Alice Johnson Stephanie M. Johnson Talmadge Johnson Tia Johnson Anthony Jones Nicole Jones Trudy Jones Carole Kaczorowski Joy Kelley Joel Kepple Jason Kidd Susan Kinsella Wayne Knight Christine Kraeuter Shelly Lacross Kalpana Lakshman Shannon Lancaster Bernadette Lang Christina Lang
Program Achievements 2013 Donor List Vasileios & Ingrid Lelos Amy Lepper Libby Letourneau Jason Levine Matt and Joan Lewin Shannon Lewis Terri E. Lewis Lenore Livingston Donald Logana Fletcher M. Ricardo Manuel Grest Martin Maria E Martinez Garlana Mathews Doreene Mayer Bridgette Mays Kathy McCarthy Patricia McLeod Colin McRae Members of Kappa Alpha Psi Richard Metz Christopher Miller Velma Miness Sherly Mitchell Jennifer Morin Thomas Morrissett Jerold Murray Christian Mustipher Denise Nelson Kaitlyn Palmaccio Julie Paul Margaret Anne Pearson
Debra Perkins Tasha Phillips Theresa Pierce Amy Pincus Jonah & Amy Pine Kareem Pollard Melissa Powell Barbara Powers Pam Powers Emma Preer Linda Pugh Nick Puhala Tynnetta Rasheed Cathy Rich Monique Richardson Chris Rittmeyer Wendy Robbins Brittany Roberts Frankie Rodriguez Amy Rowland Ted & Alex Samaddar Jack & Billie Jean Sanders Savannah Tees Outlet Carolyn Scott Sophia Scott Rebecca Sentman Rosa Shaheen Sandra Sharer Stephen Smith Stephen Smith Steve Smith Teresa Smith
Letta Sneed Adam Solender Anthony Spivey Aaron Stahl Claire Steinberg Ann Stephens Moncello Stewart Susan Stimson Marie Strickland Superior Finish Auto Reconditioning Darrell Thomas Laurie Thomas Lynne Tobias Train Me 24/7 Brandy Trappio Phyllis Trice-Garrison Ray Truitt Robert Bartley Turner Susan Turner Carrie and Sean Vetrovsky Calvin Wallace Gwendolyn Waring Mary Warman Scott Weeks Barbara L Williams Glenda Williams Sundi Williamson Jaime Withers Bobby Woods Andre Wright Joy Youngblood
Program Achievements CASA Volunteers Savannah/Chatham County 10 years or more of service Sandra Bath Georgia Benton Joan Carroll Gwendolyn Dozier Dorinda Duggan Carol McClelland Yvonne Hafer Carl Hart Roseann Hooper Sheila O’Connor 5 – 9 years of service Delbert Anderson Pamela Balmer-Murphy Lloyd Bryant Tamiko Bovain Girtha Davis Denise Flowers Vicky Halperin Lori Harris Ellaree Holmes Nancy Osterwise Queen Reeves Angela Tyson
Kathryn Cartier Dana DeJames Johnnie Douglas Sadie Gaster Denise German Catherine Hemmi-Joyce Gail Knopf Helen Kocis Jennifer Marshall Sheila Maynard William McNellis Melinda Miller Stephen Murphy Diana Pagan Suzie Palfreyman Barbara Powers Tanja Robinson BJ Sanders Brittany Simmons-Williams Teki Solomon Carl Story Beth Vantosh Ericka Walden Vannie Walker Alexis Washington Tonya Wright 1 year of service
2 – 4 years of service Ellen Atkins Brooke Atwood Laura Lee Bocade Reva Bowers Judith Brendle Thomas Brendle Valencia Brewton Ja’Nae Brown Beatrice Brownridge Silvia Cartegena
Sarah Batt Erica Dyal Dorsenia Hendrix Ella Hutchison Monica Jackson Jessica Kulper Ulysess Lee Misha Lewis Joy Mahony Michael Mixson Thamika Morgan
Tonya Murray Tracy Smith Brandy Trappio Dana Whitfield Bianca Willis Less than 1 year Dana Bertagnolli Dotti Black Hassanah Bolton* Janie Brooks Ellen Cayer Carmen Delgado Samantha Fay Tim Forbes Howie Gaynor Darryl Griffin-Simmons Paul Henderson Angel Jackson Willie Jackson Shenika Johnson Sebra Jones Sumerlin Larsen-Lesperance Brandy Mai Danielle Mearis Karen Monsanto Qu'Shon Nelson* Juliann Rogers Lee Anne Rushing Jenny Rutherford Gary Shelby Vanito Smith Sharon Spaulding Kimberly Sullivan Sarah Ullrich Jennifer Wall Kristina Wrenn*
*CASA Intern
Program Achievements 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kate Blair Wells Fargo Insurance Services
Kristine Compton Savannah Quarterts Country Club
Denise Cooper, Esquire
Joy Youngblood Secretary Re/Max Accountant
The Honorable Patricia P. Stone Ex-Officio Member Chatham County Juvenile Court
Private Practice Attorney
The Honorable LeRoy Burke, III
Emily Dickinson
Ex-Officio Member Chatham County Juvenile Court
Wet Willie’s Management Corporation
Toby Friedman Southern Motors
Tom Hartridge Willis Insurance Services of Georgia
Chad Jacobs
The Honorable Lisa Goldwire Colbert Ex-Officio Member Chatham County Juvenile Court
Yvonne Hafer
Ex-Officio Member CASA Volunteer Advocate
BB&T
Rev. Ricardo Manuel Second Ebenezer Missionary Baptist
Stephanie Mobley Vice Chair Savannah Power Yoga
Katy Moretz Savannah Neurology Specialists
Wendy Owens, Esquire Law Offices of Wendy A. Owens
Ira Ruby Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Ryan Swell Chair Bernard Williams Company
Kaitlyn Slate Armstrong Atlantic State University
Vernon Taylor, Jr. Treasurer
STAFF ZaDonna M. Slay Executive Director Charlene Peebles Advocacy Coordinator Susan Ryncavage Advocacy Coordinator Martin Ward Advocacy Coordinator Danielle Mearis Program Assistant
Memorial University Medical Center Report layout designed by Chelsey Williams, Intern
Program Achievements
Savannah/Chatham Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Inc. 428 Bull Street Suite 205 Savannah, Georgia 31401 Phone: (912) 447-8908 Fax: (912) 447-0699 info@savannahcasa.org www.savannahcasa.org
www.facebook.com/SavannahChathamCASA
www.twitter.com/SavChatham_CASA Savannah/Chatham CASA is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency that recruit, screen, train, and supervise community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are under the jurisdiction of the Chatham County Juvenile Court. Savannah/Chatham CASA is proudly supported through funding from direct public support and the following agencies:
Savannah/Chatham CASA is recognized as a member program of the National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association and an affiliate program of Georgia Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc.