DeKalb County CASA Beacon
April 2024
We want to update you on our current operational status. The DeKalb County CASA Program staff will continue to primarily operate virtually and remotely. Rest assured, all DeKalb County CASA staff members remain available and accessible via their direct email addresses. You can find the email addresses of our staff listed on our website or by clicking the link provided at the bottom of this newsletter.
Our Advocacy Coordinators are committed to maintaining their support for volunteers and cases. They will continue to meet with volunteers through virtual platforms, collaborate with case teams, and diligently work on all assigned cases to ensure the best outcomes for the children we serve.
Additionally, our volunteer recruitment efforts remain ongoing. We will continue to host virtual Volunteer Information Sessions, conduct interviews, and provide training opportunities throughout 2024. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a CASA volunteer, please encourage them to reach out to us.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we navigate these challenging times together. Your commitment to our mission is truly appreciated.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Volunteer
We are actively seeking individuals to join our team as Court Appointed Special Advocates, Education Advocates, and Ambassador volunteers. If you're interested in learning more about how you can make a difference, we invite you to attend one of our Virtual Volunteer Information Sessions. These sessions will take place on Monday, April 15th at Noon and Tuesday, April 16th at 6 p.m. To register for a session, please visit our website or email Justine Ferreira for more information.
CASA 101
Are you part of a community group, church, or club seeking engaging speakers? Would you like insights into the impactful work of the DeKalb County CASA Program and the children we support? Whether virtual or in-person, our team is available to share our mission with your group. For inquiries, speaker requests, or to learn more, please reach out to Justine Ferreira via email. We're excited to connect with you and share the vital role CASA plays in our community!
New Training Class
We're excited to share that our newest DeKalb County CASA volunteer training class has officially commenced! In the upcoming weeks, these compassionate individuals will undergo comprehensive training and support as they prepare to positively impact the lives of children in foster care. Let's extend our warmest wishes to these new trainees as they embark on this transformative journey. Together, we're making a difference!
Celebrating Volunteerism: April Marks Global Volunteer Month and National Volunteer Week
We are excited to welcome April, a month dedicated to honoring and celebrating the invaluable contributions of volunteers worldwide. With both Global Volunteer Month and National Volunteer Week falling within this month, it serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that volunteerism has on individuals, communities, and society, at large. The DeKalb County CASA Program would not exist without volunteers.
Global Volunteer Month shines a spotlight on the collective efforts of volunteers from diverse backgrounds and cultures united in their shared commitment to making a positive difference in the world. It serves as a time to recognize the countless individuals who selflessly give their time, skills, and passion to address pressing issues, uplift communities, and affect lasting change.
National Volunteer Week, observed from April 21st to April 27th, offers a special opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for the dedicated volunteers who enrich our lives and strengthen our communities. It is a time to celebrate the power of volunteerism to inspire hope, foster connections, and create a brighter future for all.
Here at the DeKalb County CASA Program, we are immensely grateful for the incredible contributions of our volunteers, whose unwavering dedication and compassion are the driving force behind our mission to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are under the protection of the juvenile court. Whether serving as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), Education Advocates, Ambassadors, or Board Members, each volunteer plays a vital role in positively impacting the lives of the children and youth we serve. We also recognize the contributions of the other community volunteers whom we collaborate with; the Judicial Citizen Panel Review members, school volunteers, and other volunteers working with the children we serve. Thank you for all that you do and give.
During Global Volunteer Month and National Volunteer Week, we invite you to join us in celebrating the spirit of volunteerism and recognizing the transformative power of collective action. Whether through acts of kindness, advocacy efforts, or community engagement, each of us has the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As we honor the significance of April for volunteerism, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a more compassionate, inclusive, and equitable society. Together, we can create positive change and inspire others to join us on the journey towards a brighter future for all.
Thank you to all of our volunteers for your unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to serving others. Your impact is truly immeasurable, and we are honored to stand alongside you in our shared mission.
Resources
Child Abuse Prevention Month
April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month.- and important time for action!
Child abuse is a pervasive issue affecting far too many children in our community. Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as a platform to educate the public about the signs of abuse, the impact it has on children and families, and the resources available to support those in need. It also provides an opportunity to advocate for policies and programs that prioritize the safety and well-being of children.
Throughout the month, various events, activities, and outreach campaigns are organized to engage communities and shine a light on the prevention effort. These include educational workshops, awareness events, fundraisers, community forums, and initiatives to promote healthy parenting practices. You will find some listed below and in our Continuing Education Opportunities. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more updates!. For our wonderful DeKalb CASA volunteers, attendance to any of these events will count towards your annual Continuing Education hours.
Ways to Help:
- BLUETUE: Every Tuesday in April DeKalb CASA staff will be wearing BLUE, the color of child abuse awareness. To further our call to action, we will post photos and information on social media and invite you to do the same and make sure to tag us!
- PINWHEELS: Pinwheels are the symbol for child abuse prevention. We will be planting pinwheel gardens at the courthouse and our homes to raise awareness. Please join our efforts and do the same sharing on social media to cast a wide net of awareness-we'd love to celebrate your efforts so make sure to tag us!
By coming together as a community and taking proactive steps to prevent child abuse, we can create safer, healthier environments where children can thrive. Let's work together to make a difference and ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
Resources:
The Children's Bureau, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, provides an array of valuable information and resources through the Child Welfare Information Gateway. You can access a free resource guide, explore data, review publications, and much more by visiting their website.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide valuable insights into risk and protective factors, along with a wealth of resources, facts, statistics, and strategies for child abuse prevention.
Prevent Child Abuse America offers a comprehensive resource library featuring recorded webinars, fact sheets, and toolkits covering a wide range of topics, including ACEs, Equity and Social Justice, Abuse, Neglect, and much more.
The Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children is an advocacy center offering medical and forensic evaluations, behavioral health assessments, counseling services, as well as live and on-demand trainings covering a wide array of topics. Additionally, the center provides valuable resources for parents, caregivers, and professionals.
HERO HIGHLIGHTS
Volunteer of the Month
It is with great honor and appreciation that we recognize Tara Harper as our April 2024 Volunteer of the Month.
Tara was nominated by Senior Education Advocacy Coordinator, Cathy Bacon, for her outstanding contributions since joining our program in May of 2023. Cathy shared, "in the heart of the DeKalb County CASA Program lies the unwavering dedication of individuals like Tara Harper, whose commitment to serving as an Education Advocate has left an indelible mark on the lives of the children we support.
Tara's journey with CASA began with a simple yet profound desire to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children within our community. From the moment she stepped into her role as an Education Advocate, Tara's passion and compassion have shone brightly, illuminating the path toward a brighter future for the child she serves.
As an Education Advocate, Tara has tirelessly championed the educational needs of the child under her care, ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary to thrive academically. Whether advocating for specialized services, facilitating communication between schools and caregivers, or providing invaluable advocacy, Tara has consistently gone above and beyond to empower the child to reach their full potential.
Beyond her advocacy efforts, Tara's unwavering dedication to building meaningful connections with the child she serves has been nothing short of inspiring. Her genuine kindness, empathy, and unwavering support of the child is wonderful to witness. In addition to her remarkable work with her CASA child, Tara has also played an integral role in fostering a sense of community and collaboration within our CASA program. She collaborates with all case parties, attends court hearings, school meetings, and visits, sharing her insights and offering support."
Please join us in congratulating Tara Harper for her outstanding achievements and for embodying the true spirit of volunteerism and advocacy. Your passion and dedication inspire us all, and we are honored to celebrate you as our April 2024 Volunteer of the Month.
Volunteer Birthdays
Please join us in extending warm birthday wishes to our wonderful volunteers who are celebrating their birthdays in April. Here's to an amazing birthday and a year filled with happiness and fulfillment ahead! Happy Birthday Ashley, Jennifer, Barbara, and Mary!!!
Ashley Blackwood - April 9th
Jennifer Fuld - April 19th
Barbara Haan - April 25th
Mary Campbell Jenkins - April 26th
Happiest of birthdays to you all!
Volunteer Anniversaries
24 Years - Doris Savage
6 Years - Elizabeth Umbaugh
3 Years - Nicole Brandon
3 Years - Camile Pendley Hau
Happy CASAversary to all of you! Thank you immensely for your unwavering support of the DeKalb County CASA Program. Your dedication and contributions are deeply valued and truly appreciated. Here's to many more years of making a positive impact in the lives of children!
Staff Celebrations
Our Program and Advocacy Assistant, Heather Mount, will be celebrating her 7-year anniversary with the DeKalb County CASA Program on April 10th! Over the past seven years, Heather has been an indispensable member of our team, ensuring that our program's day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently. Her dedication, hard work, and attention to detail have been instrumental in our success. But Heather brings more than just efficiency to our team—she brings warmth, kindness, and a genuine passion for serving others. With her warm smile and compassionate nature, Heather has a way of brightening everyone's day and making them feel valued and appreciated. We are truly blessed to have Heather as part of our CASA team, and we want to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude for her unwavering commitment and exceptional service. Heather, thank you for all that you do! We are incredibly fortunate to work alongside you.
Advocacy Coordinator, Chasity Rogers, will celebrate her 1st CASAversary with the DeKalb County CASA Program on April 20th. In just one year, Chasity has made an incredible impact, bringing passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication to our Program. Her commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of the children we serve is truly inspiring. As an Advocacy Coordinator, she partners with her volunteers to help them navigate the complexities of each case. Whether it’s reviewing case files together, attending court hearings, or offering a listening ear, her presence is a beacon of support. Thank you for all that you do, Chasity—here's to many more years of making a difference together!
Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, Justine Ferreria will be celebrating her 10-year anniversary with us on April 23rd! Over the past decade, Justine has played a vital role in our organization, serving as the first point of contact for those interested in becoming CASA Volunteers. Her passion for recruiting volunteers and ensuring they feel valued and appreciated shines through in everything she does.
Justine goes above and beyond to personally connect with our volunteers, taking the time to recognize their birthdays, anniversaries, and other life milestones by sending thoughtful cards in the mail. Recruiting volunteers isn't just a job for Justine—it's a labor of love. We are incredibly grateful to have Justine as part of our CASA team, and we want to take this opportunity to express our deepest appreciation for her dedication and commitment. Happy CASAversary!!!
Our newest Advocacy Coordinator, Dasha Burgess, is celebrating her birthday on April 30th! Dasha has quickly become an invaluable member of our DeKalb CASA team, bringing with her a wealth of dedication, passion, and enthusiasm for advocating on behalf of the children we serve. Her energy and commitment to our mission is so exciting. As Dasha celebrates another year of life, let's take a moment to express our gratitude for her contributions to our organization and the positive impact she's already made. Happy Birthday, Dasha! Here's to many more years of advocacy, compassion, and making a difference in the lives of children.
CONTINUING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
All DeKalb County CASA volunteers are expected to fulfill 12 hours of annual continuing education. To meet this requirement, volunteers have the flexibility to engage in various educational opportunities such as conferences, workshops, webinars, reading books, watching relevant movies, and utilizing other educational formats. Topics encompass a wide range, including child welfare, child abuse, neglect, cultural awareness, domestic violence, substance use, mental health, medical conditions, food insecurity, poverty, and more.
For further details or assistance in accessing educational resources, please don't hesitate to reach out to Justine Ferreira via email. We're here to support your ongoing learning and development as a CASA or Education Advocate volunteer.
Books
"To the End of June: The Intimate Life of American Foster Care" by Cris Beam
Drawing from her firsthand experience as a foster mother, the author delves deep into the intricacies of foster care in this poignant work. Over the course of five years, she immerses readers in the world of foster children, capturing pivotal moments in their quest for stability and love.
Structured to mirror the life cycle of a foster child, the narrative begins with the wrenching removal of babies and children from their birth families. From there, the author provides an unprecedented look at the challenges of navigating the foster care system—from the emotional upheaval of shifting between pre-adoptive homes and group facilities to the complex dynamics involving prospective adoptive parents and birth families.
As the story unfolds, readers are invited to witness the journey of teenagers on the brink of aging out of the system in New York, as well as the struggles of a devoted woman who has fostered eleven children, all in dire need of a sense of belonging.
Through the lens of a few deeply committed foster families, the author sheds light on the flaws within the system while also celebrating the resilience of those impacted by it. Ultimately, this work serves as a powerful call to action, urging for meaningful reform while offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
Can be found at the DeKalb Public Library and also available on Amazon and other online book sellers.
"The Big Bad Wolf in My House" by Valerie Fontaine
A poignant narrative that delves into the harrowing reality of domestic violence while also offering a glimmer of hope for the future. In this powerful tale, a young girl bravely shares her experiences as her mother's new friend enters their lives—a character she likens to the big bad wolf.
Initially, the young girl observes the friend's seemingly kind demeanor toward her mother, though she cannot shake the feeling of unease stirred by the friend's cold gaze. However, the facade quickly crumbles when the friend's anger erupts, hurling hurtful words and insults at her mother, leaving behind a shattered sense of peace and joy.
As the tension escalates, the girl finds herself navigating a precarious balance, desperately trying to maintain harmony within the household while enduring the friend's unpredictable outbursts. Yet, with each passing day, the friend's behavior grows increasingly aggressive, leaving both mother and daughter in a state of fear and uncertainty.
As the narrative unfolds, readers are left to ponder: how will this courageous young girl and her mother find the strength to confront the friend's escalating violence? And, more importantly, what glimmers of hope will guide them through the darkness toward a brighter tomorrow?
This book is recommended by Prevention & Training team members at the Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children, for children ages 4-8 years. This book can be found at the DeKalb Public Library and is also available on Amazon and from other online booksellers. View reading video below.
Podcast
"Happiness Break"
The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley
Psychologist Dacher Keltner and special guests lead you through evidence-based techniques to cultivate compassion, build resilience to stress, and find moments of joy and inspiration. Dive into the science behind these practices, all in under 10 minutes. It's the perfect way to add a happiness boost to your day! Episodes can be found via this link and wherever you listen to your podcasts.Training Opportunities
Georgia Center for Child Advocacy
Throughout the Month of April
Virtual Trainings, FREE
During Child Abuse Prevention Month throughout April, the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy is offering a series of FREE virtual trainings, film screenings, and panel discussions. Normally priced at $15 or more, these sessions cover a variety of important topics, including "ACES 101," "Understanding and Supporting Youth with Problematic Sexual Behavior," "Mandated Reporter Training," "Internet Safety," and more. Although the sessions are free, registration is required. To view session details, dates, and to register, please click on the following link.
"Strengthening Parental Resilience"
Prevent Child Abuse Georgia
Thursday, April 4, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Virtual Session, FREE
This workshop by Strengthening Families Georgia aims to assist child and family-serving professionals in promoting parental resilience within families on a daily basis. Through consistent practice, participants will learn to assess parental situations and provide follow-up support effectively.
During the workshop, participants will:
*Explore various factors influencing resilience, including coping mechanisms, belief systems, emotional regulation, locus of control, self-efficacy, family dynamics, positive outlook, and empathy.
*Gain insights into integrating resilience-building practices into their daily interactions at the societal, community, and individual levels.
*Engage in practical exercises with a partner to develop skills in assessing appropriate referrals and conducting follow-up conversations.
*Identify how Strengthening Families™ Protective Factors (such as social connections, concrete supports, knowledge of child development, and social and emotional competency of children) also contribute to activities promoting parental resilience.
Register via this link.
"Special Education Services and Supports"
Amerigroup
Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Webinar, FREE
This training session offers an overview of educational laws, the evaluation process, and the least restrictive environment requirements in Georgia. They will define Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and delve into the significance of parent-teacher relationships, as well as parent's rights. Register via this link.
"When Home is Where the Hurt Is: An Exploration of Family Facilitated CSEC"
Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children, Child Sex Trafficking Webinar Series
Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
Webinar, FREE
This module aims to equip attendees with a foundational understanding of family-facilitated CSEC (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children) and utilizes case studies to help participants identify instances of family-facilitated CSEC. Such exploitation often disguises itself under the guise of traditional child sexual abuse or neglect. Learn more and register for the session via this link.
"Caring for Children who have Experienced Trauma"
Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children, Child Protection Webinar Series
Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
Webinar, FREE
Experiencing a traumatic event can be a daunting and challenging experience for families, particularly when caregivers may not know the best ways to support their child in the aftermath. This presentation aims to provide insight into trauma by defining it and exploring its various impacts on youth—physically, mentally, emotionally, and developmentally. Additionally, it will address the signs of post-traumatic stress in children and offer guidance on when and what type of treatment to seek. Lastly, the presentation will outline strategies for caregivers to effectively support their child or teenager following a traumatic event. Learn more and register for the session via this link.
Child Welfare Training Collaborative
Georgia State University
FREE, Virtual Training and In-Person Sessions
April Training Sessions
Virtual and Live Sessions, FREE
The Child Welfare Training Collaborative has released their schedule of upcoming training sessions, which cover a variety of important topics. These sessions include "Trauma to Resilience: Strategies to Support Children's Well-Being," "Recognizing and Managing Secondary Traumatic Stress," "Delivering Trauma-Informed Customer Service," "Unmasking the Trauma of Bullying," and others. For the complete list view their calendar via this link.
A Word from our Staff
Gratitude
by Vickie Thomas, Senior Advocacy Coordinator
In the spirit of National Volunteer Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the incredible volunteers, interns, supporters and staff who have dedicated themselves to the DeKalb County CASA Program. From our trailblazers and social justice champions to our pioneers and advocates for peace, each of you has played a vital role in shaping our organization and making a lasting impact on the lives of children in our community.
Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to our cause have not gone unnoticed. From the moment you stepped through our doors, you rolled up your sleeves and got to work, ensuring that the needs of our CASA children are met and that they feel seen, heard, and valued.
You've been there at the brinks, during times of uncertainty and transition, providing stability, support, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most. Your leadership, bravery, and tenacity have allowed us to overcome obstacles and break down barriers, making it possible for children to reclaim their childhoods and experience the joy of running and playing once again.
As I reflect on National Volunteer Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your outstanding accomplishments over the years. Thank you for your tireless efforts, your compassion, and your unwavering dedication to making the world a better place for children. Keep doing what you're doing—you are truly making a difference.
WAYS YOU CAN HELP
Donate Directly
United Way Payroll Deduction
Kroger Community Rewards
Angel Wings Project
The Angel Wings project aims to provide essential supplies, uniforms, and other necessary items to children we serve, enabling them to participate in extracurricular and enrichment activities. To request assistance through the Angel Wings project, please obtain the request forms from DeKalb County CASA Program staff via email at dekalbcasa@dekalbcasa.org. These forms must be completed by a referring source and include the child’s name, age, gender, grade, and specific needs, along with the contact information of the individual making the referral. Once completed, please return the form either by mail to P.O. Box 768, Avondale Estates, GA 30002, or via email. Our team will ensure that the information is passed on to a member of our Angel Wings Crew for fulfillment, if possible.
Board of Directors
- Alecea Quintyne, Chair
- Norman Pitts, Vice-Chair
- Ketiwe Zipperer, Secretary
- Linda Banks, Executive Director
- Jill Davis, Member
- Freda Hammonds, Member
- Christian Mitchell Murphy, Member
- Dr. Jeanne D. Williams, Member
Connect with Staff
Email: dekalbcasa@dekalbcasa.org
Website: www.dekalbcasa.org
Location: 4309 Memorial Drive, Decatur, GA, USA
Phone: 404 378 0038
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dekalbCASAGA/
The DeKalb County CASA Program operates under the umbrella of the Child Advocate Network, Incorporated as a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. We are members of the National CASA Association, Incorporated and an affiliate of Georgia CASA, Incorporated. Our mission is to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are under the protection of the juvenile court. As a CASA Volunteer, you seek to assure safe and permanent homes for each child as quickly as possible. DeKalb County CASA accomplishes this mission by training and supporting citizen volunteers who serve as advocates for individual children while maintaining proper ethical behavior, respect, and confidentiality.