Meet Rose Kelly, the May Advocate Spotlight for 2025.
In every corner of Luzerne & Wyoming County, 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.
