Advocate Spotlight: Tish Last

Since becoming a court appointed special advocate in June of this year, Tish Last has consistently shown the difference that one dedicated, caring adult can make in the life of a child.

In Tish’s case, it’s children. A brother and sister, ages 13 and 12.

Since being appointed to their case, Tish has dedicated her time, talent and heart to the best interests of her children and their family.

“Every time I am with my CASA kids I have a memorable experience,” Tish said. “They are remarkable, resilient children with lots of personality. I feel blessed to know them.”

Tish also knows the precious and unique responsibility that a court appointed advocate has.

 “Being a court appointed special advocate comes with rights and privileges akin to an educator, lawyer, medical professional, or social worker,” Tish said. “CASA’s are privy to a whole array of confidential information. With that privilege comes a deep responsibility to protect our kids. They are among our most vulnerable citizens.”

Tish credits her training class with helping her understand what exactly is expected of her as a volunteer advocate.

“I learned about CASA through my sisters who have been involved with CASAblanca and through board members,” she said. “However, I did not fully understand what the volunteer position entailed until I went through training.”

All of our advocates go through comprehensive training to lay a foundation for their advocacy. Our next training class is scheduled to begin in March 2019.

Not only are our advocates trained, they’re supported by our staff as well as the other advocates.

“The best advice I can give a new CASA is to trust your gut and keep an open mind and heart,” Tish said. “And don’t ever be reluctant to seek help from our dedicated staff.

“I have no regrets having become a CASA. Although I have only been an advocate for a short time, I think the work will turn out to be the most important volunteer work I will ever do in my lifetime.”

If, like Tish, you’re ready to give your time to change lives, we’d love for you to join us at an information session on Monday, December 17 at noon in our office in Plains. Or start your new year off right and join us in January – January 7 or January 22 at 5 p.m. Give us a call at (570) 855-2247 or click here to register.

Tish lives in Wilkes-Barre with her husband Michael and their dog Patches. They are the proud aunt and uncle to 32 nieces and nephews.  

What we're thankful for

Happy Thanksgiving!

Volunteerism is always awe-inspiring. Normal folks who take their free time and energy and spend it on someone else. Our advocates are a supreme kind of volunteer. They use their gifts to literally change the lives of children who are so in need.

On this Thanksgiving we want to acknowledge them for all their hard work and their dedication to the children on their cases. For the hours they spend listening, helping, loving, and speaking up for them. We are so thankful for each and every one of them.

We’re also thankful for our donors and partners who give so freely to support the mission of CASA of Luzerne County and help us to work to ensure that every abused and neglected child in our community has access to a court appointed special advocate.

When a community comes together, change truly happens.

And thank you to those of you who are taking the time to read this. By the simple act of engaging with us and helping to spread the message, you’re helping to further our cause. And we are so grateful.

We’d also like to remind you about our #GivingTuesday campaign which is already live. By clicking here, and selecting CASA of Luzerne County as your charity of choice, you can make sure that each of the children in our program has the clothing they need to make it through this already freezing winter. So many of the kids who come to us are without the basic necessities, and we believe every child has the right to be safe and warm.

Thank you, thank you.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving from all of us at CASA of Luzerne County.