CASA Volunteers Take the Oath to be the Voice of a Child

Six new members of the Luzerne County Organization "CASA" took the oath to represent the best interests of abused and neglected children in court. "CASA" which stands for "Court Appointed Special Advocates" has been helping children in Luzerne county since 2013.

Current volunteers were recognized for their hard work over the past few years.

Jennifer DeBalko, Executive Director, Pennsylvania CASA told Eyewitness News "There's no right fit for a CASA volunteer. The biggest thing that a volunteer needs to bring to the program is a compassion for children, a passion to advocate for their best interest and the ability to be objective."

CASA has 19 programs state-wide, serving 24 counties. the organization is always in need of volunteers.

M&T Bank donates $25,000 to become the exclusive Hero Sponsor of CASA of Luzerne County’s second annual CASAblanca Gala

M&T Bank recently donated $25,000 to become the exclusive Hero Sponsor of CASA of Luzerne County’s second annual CASAblanca Gala, a casino themed event featuring delicious cuisine, festive drinks and entertainment to be held Thursday September 28th at the FM Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.

CASA which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate receives no public funding. This nonprofit organization’s specially trained court appointed volunteers serve as a voice for a child in the judicial system, ensuring that each child is placed in a safe and nurturing environment. The goal of the organization is to ensure that every child in Luzerne County is granted this fundamental right.

M&T’s generosity and vision will help to fund the continued operations of the small staff supporting dedicated volunteers who advocate for these most vulnerable children. This provides hope and the chance for each child in Luzerne County to thrive and flourish. Pictured L to R - Ramah Hackett ,Melissa Parente CASAblanca Co-chairs, John Aciukewicz Esq.- CASA Executive Director, Phil Johnson Regional President, M&T Bank, Christina Taylor, CASAblanca Co-Chair.