March is Women's History Month – a time to recognize all of the achievements, contributions, and vital roles that women play in society presently and across history. And while CASA specifically recognizes and acknowledges the important work being done by women in the child welfare system year round – March is just an extra opportunity to highlight it!

Did you know that in our CASA program​:

As you can see, CASA couldn’t exist without the leadership and passion of women, but we would be remiss if we didn't also acknowledge the disproportionately large number of women serving as social workers, school teachers, caregivers, and other roles which support our CASA children.

We are thankful for the fierce advocacy, support, and care provided by all of the women working on behalf of children in the child welfare system. Thank you all for your strength, your courage, and your time – we truly couldn't do this without you.

With Gratitude,

This month we highlight our newest staff: Rebecca Thomas, our new Manager of Advocate Engagement and Education, and Olivia Wozniak, our new Office and Operations Coordinator. We are so thrilled that both of them have joined us!

Rebecca has been involved for the last thirty years in teaching adult learners and for the last seven years in the child welfare system. She first served as a licensed foster parent, then as a Foster Parent Support Specialist with DCFS, and currently as a PRIDE trainer for the state of IL. Rebecca has known of CASA since the late 80’s and went through training at the time to become a CASA volunteer advocate as a young adult. Additionally, Rebecca's professional interactions with CASA staff have been so positive that she welcomed the opportunity to join the CASA Lake County Staff.

Olivia was a residential counselor for five years working with severely traumatized children and at-risk youths. She also worked in the Alternate Day Assignment program (ISS/therapeutic intervention) for three years in a local high school and is an Archery coach for the past four years. Olivia joined CASA Lake County because she believes in empowering our youth and families as much as she loves supporting those who do. She felt her position was the right mix of responsibilities and experience from both her social work and corporate backgrounds.

Speaking of incredible contributions by women, we'd like to highlight a local women's organization, Caring Women's Connection. CWC has made positive contributions to the greater Lake County area for many, many years. Specifically, CWC has supported CASA for 10 years now, giving a total of $38,300, which has provided a year of life-changing CASA advocacy for more than 19 children! The CWC is an all-volunteer organization that been around since 1958, and is always looking for new community members to get involved. Learn more here: https://caringwomensconnection.com/

Join The Feather Glass Wine Bar & Eatery in Vernon Hills for a weekend brunch supporting CASA on Saturday April 15th and Sunday April 16th! A portion of the brunch proceeds will be donated to CASA!

To CASA Kelley for the closure of the case of six children ranging in age from fifteen years to one year. Kelly and her partner provided support and understanding while advocating for the family to be reunited and receive the services they needed for a successful reunification and closure. 

To CASA Adriana for starting a new case upon completion of training. Adriana has immediately and enthusiastically begun advocacy work with her CASA family. This has been demonstrated through her use of translation skills and providing valuable information to the family regarding financial assistance. Adriana is looking forward to being a CASA and working with the new family.