"We are in a really special position to listen to and elevate the voices of children during what can be a challenging, confusing, and traumatic time in their lives.” Milena Raketic completed her CASA volunteer training in August of 2020 and took her first case in October of the same year. She learned of CASA...
“My heart has always been to care for people.” Tracy Gapinski became a CASA volunteer a little over a year ago. She is a Registered Nurse, and believes she was born to be one. Although Tracy no longer works at the bedside, she currently has a role working in Physician Education and Clinical Documentation. For...
“I am fascinated by the learning experience [of CASA volunteering] and most importantly being part of an invaluable organization that provides additional support for children in need.” Cathy Taglia became a CASA volunteer a year ago. She was an international flight attendant and Japanese interpreter for 22 years, and left her profession to raise a...
A Northwest Indiana volunteer was recognized at a statewide level for advocating for a child who otherwise would have likely "suffered greater abuse and neglect," if not for her intervention. A local program director said it was the first time an individual from Porter County has been honored as "Volunteer of the Year." Lisa Stressler, Porter...
“I truly believe [CASA volunteers] fill a vital role in society and can help make a difference. What we do is important, necessary, and can make a positive impact on the lives of children and families.” Sarah Arnold completed her CASA volunteer training last summer and took her first case last fall. She received her...
“You may not be able to fix all the craziness in the world but you can help one child at a time. Oftentimes, just changing the trajectory of their life in the slightest degree can land them in a much better place.” Pam Staub has been a CASA volunteer since the of fall of 2018,...
“My love of children and desire to help make a child's life safer and happier drives my passion.” Joellen Kulczyk has been a CASA for two years and is a Registered Nurse with MNS. In her spare time she enjoys reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her grandchildren. Joellen expressed that her mother believed...
“I have always believed that ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. And because of the joy I get working with children and my CASA team, I plan on being a CASA for as long as possible.” Nancy Petruska has been involved with Porter County CASA for 18 months. Nancy has a background of victim...
“I believe it is a very important program for the kids so I am challenged to do my best.” Kathlynn Kinnear-Hewitt has been involved with Porter County CASA since May of 2020. She is a registered dietician and most of her career has been with Women, Infants, and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC). She...
“There are still families who need our help and support, and volunteering is as helpful to me as it is to them.” Natalie Thorgren has been a CASA volunteer for one year and is an elementary school teacher. In her free time she enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time with her friends and...
