Advocate Spotlight: Edward Steltz

Meet Edward Steltz, the July Advocate Spotlight for 2025.

After retiring, Edward Steltz found himself reflecting on the many blessings life had offered him—especially the pride and gratitude he felt for his own children. With more time on his hands and a desire to give back, he was drawn to a cause that would allow him to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who hadn’t had the same opportunities. That’s when he found CASA of the Wyoming Valley.

“Once I retired, I had time to ‘pay back’ for the many great things that life presented me,” Edward says. “I am especially thankful and proud of my children and decided that working with kids who have not been presented many of the same opportunities was a great way to do so.”

As a CASA volunteer, Edward walks alongside children facing uncertainty and upheaval, offering not only a consistent presence but also genuine guidance and care. His favorite part of the role is seeing these children grow, heal, and find their way—whether that means reuniting with family or settling into safe, loving foster homes.

“I enjoy finding ways to help and guide my CASA kids through what can be very difficult challenges,” he shares, “and watching them grow and be reunited with family or loving foster homes.”

One moment, in particular, stands out to Edward—a moment that defines why he chose to volunteer. “My favorite moment was when I helped my CASA kid move into his father's home and helped him organize his own room,” he recalls. “All he wanted from life was to rejoin his father, and I was there to see it.”

Edward is honest about the demands of the role. It isn’t always easy. But for those who have patience and a heart for helping children, it’s one of the most fulfilling things they can do.

“I would encourage people who have patience (which I am still working on) and a desire to contribute to our youth to look into CASA,” Edward says. “While I can't promise an easy process, I can tell you it is rewarding in many ways. You can make a friend of a child for life!”

We are proud to highlight Edward Steltz as a shining example of what it means to serve with heart, commitment, and hope. Thank you, Edward, for all you do for the children of Wyoming Valley.

Interested in becoming a CASA volunteer like Edward?

CASA of Wyoming Valley is currently seeking volunteer advocates in Luzerne and Wyoming County. Please call 570-855-2247 for information on how you can involved.

Advocate Spotlight: Rose Kelly

Meet Rose Kelly, the May Advocate Spotlight for 2025.

In every corner of Luzerne & Wyoming Counties, there are children facing uncertainty, transition and trauma. For some, the foster care system is a revolving door of new faces and changing circumstances. But for the children assigned to Rose, there is one constant: her.

“I found that there are many children in the Hazleton area who really need someone they can count on,” Rose shares. That realization sparked her journey to become a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), a trusted adult who stands beside a child in foster care and ensures their voice is heard in court.

Rose doesn’t just attend hearings or write reports. She builds trust. She listens. And she shows up—over and over again.

“What I enjoy most about my CASA service is being that person—the one a child knows they can rely on, no matter what,” she says. “Someone who listens to them, speaks on their behalf, and makes sure their wishes are shared with the judge.”

It’s a role that goes far beyond paperwork. For Rose, it’s about human connection—and sometimes, the smallest moments reveal the deepest bonds.

“There was a time one of the kids I was working with was in crisis and ended up in the ER. She let me sit with her,” Rose recalls. “That might not seem like much, but in that moment, I knew she trusted me. One hundred percent. We had formed a bond, and she felt safe with me there.”

These quiet moments of trust are what CASA is all about.

Rose encourages others to take that first step toward advocacy, believing strongly in the impact of one person.

“If you want to change the world, change the life of a child,” she says. “You will REALLY make a difference by becoming their CASA.”

Through her dedication, compassion and unwavering presence, Rose has become more than an advocate—she’s a lifeline. Her commitment not only changes lives, it transforms futures.

We are incredibly grateful for Rose and all she brings to the children and families she serves. If her story speaks to you, we invite you to learn more by joining us for an info session to learn more about advocacy and what it means to be a CASA.

CASA of Wyoming Valley is currently seeking volunteer advocates in Luzerne and Wyoming County. Please call 570-855-2247 for information on how you can involved.