FINAL_AnnualReportCASA_030422

www.winnebagocountycasa.org Winnebago CASA Annual Report 2021 www.winnebagocountycasa.org

A FAREWELL TO JILLISA Thank You From Winnebago County CASA CASA thanks Winnebago County Court Services for staffing and in-kind donations that help offset operating costs. Winnebago County CASA would like to over the years. Jillisa was dedicated to the communicate to you a leadership change CASA mission and her actions proved that. within our organization. After providing dedicated service to CASA since 2013, We wish her all the best in the future. Jillisa A. Bondurant has chosen to leave CASA to pursue other endeavors. Jillisa started in December 2013 as a case manager (advocate supervisor) and held roles of increasing responsibility, finishing with Program Director from August 2019 until present. The entire CASA team thanks Jillisa for her dedicated service and exceptional leadership

STAFF FROM THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR Jennifer Montoya Marcos Diaz To our friends, Jillisa A. Bondurant Thank you for your support this past year. In ADVOCATE CASA ADVOCATE 2019, I was honored with the opportunity to lead FACILITATOR SUPERVISOR our organization to not only serve more children, but to also deliver a higher quality of advocacy Johnnie Pentenburg Maureen Morrissey focused on equitable practices to reunite families and maintain children in their homes when safely CASA ADVOCATE TRAINING AND possible. In our fiscal year 2020-2021, despite SUPERVISOR RETENTION the COVID-19 Pandemic, we focused on building COORDINATOR capacity in the areas of our infrastructure, quality Ann Bruce assurance, and organizational leadership. Harold Sweeney RECRUITMENT With any form of growth, it is imperative to evaluate To support this goal, we are & OUTREACH EDUCATION what are we growing upon. With the assistance of committed to raising $250,000 COORDINATOR ADVOCATE the 81Thrive Grant and assessment tools we were dollars to ensure we change the able to see where some of our gaps were and utilize story of 500 children by giving Alejandra Karen Schiller resources through Northern Illinois Center for Non- them a voice in court. Chapel-Herrera Profit Excellence. As a result, we strengthened ADMINISTRATIVE our financial infrastructure, invested in board Thank you for your continued MARKETING ASSISTANT TO THE development and empowered leadership. Because support. We hope you don’t COORDINATOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS of your support, our organization has been able to just watch what we do but join grow from a small non-profit to the thriving business us in making this year one we it is today. From 2019 until now our operating budget will look back on in awe! has increased by $600,000 and we went from a team of eight to 12. This year, we will continue our capacity building with the additional of an Executive Director at the high level and focusing on advocacy excellence on the ground level. Last year, we swore in 31 volunteers. Our goal this year, is to double our advocates and swear in an addition 130 volunteers. We strongly believe that we must raise the bar for the children in our community.

TO OUR FRIENDS, BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON Ron Clewer Reflecting on last year, I remember volunteers while continuing to support the Paul Loner Darlene Hanna thinking how great it would be to put volunteers we already have as best we can. Sue Gorski Fran Rossate 2020 behind us and how our lives will This leads us to needing more staff to support, Mari Mattocks Michelle Vella be back to normal... assist and guide our volunteers. We do not Jessica Cheney Nelson take this challenge lightly and are committed Wow, was I wrong! to raising $250,000 through our fundraisers to support our efforts. Despite all the challenges brought on by COVID-19, 2021 was a year of growth for I am ecstatic for this new year and eager to see CASA. We added new staff members, what we can accomplish as an organization. nurtured new donors, received new We have big goals, but with the support of our grants, added volunteers, pursued board, staff, volunteers, and donors, we will be new fundraising opportunities and able to move mountains. developed new ways to operate amidst a pandemic. It truly has been an exciting Thank you for your continued support. We year for CASA! invite you to join us in making this year one we will look back at in awe! For this growth to occur, we needed to get creative. We bolstered our We are appreciative of your continued fundraising efforts and modified our support. Join us next year as we strive to 5k run to make it more accessible. reach our goals. Additionally - instead of organizing our annual Dinner Event indoors, we arranged it outside with food trucks instead. This past June, The Board of Directors Leslie Erickson sat down to develop a strategic plan to support 100% of kids in our court system who have experienced abuse or neglect. Reaching this goal will be challenging considering as of right now, we are serving about 30% of abused and neglected children in our community. To reach this goal, we will need to recruit and train over 130 more

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Leslie Erickson Fred Muehlfelder It is my belief that in order for an of the program at such an exciting time. organization to be successful, it needs CHAIRPERSON VICE CHAIRPERSON a strong foundation and that foundation Each individual within the CASA starts with the individuals within the organization plays a vital role in making Jennifer Muraski Michelle Conti organization. I began at CASA as sure we are aligned with our mission Executive Director on February 9th, 2022 statement and adhering to our guiding IMMEDIATE TREASURER and after a very short period of time it principles, thus supporting our children PAST-CHAIRSPERSON was quite evident that CASA already as best we can. I see it as my duty has that strong foundation. Everyone I as Executive Director to make sure have met, staff, board members, court I am supporting all the individuals personnel and volunteers have all been within CASA, from board members to so welcoming and helpful that it has colleagues on staff to volunteers, as made my transition seamless. best I can so they can use their talents to help the organization grow with I am both honored and excited to take fidelity. on the role of Executive Director here at CASA. I was first introduced to the CASA program fifteen years ago when I began working for Winnebago County in a different capacity. Over the years, I have been able to watch the program grow and flourish. It truly is a privilege for me to have the opportunity to become part Eric Wilson Taryn Marko SECRETARY DEPUTY DIRECTOR John Papiernik

ACTIVE VOLUNTEERS - PROMPTING DONATIONS THANKS TO OUR VOLUNTEERS SINCE 1989 SINCE 2017 Tyler (Conway), Alisha $250,000 This year, we are setting our Darr, Margaret Keller, David Builta, Steven $200,000 most aggressive goals yet. Parsons, Greg Krizka, David”,9/1/2020, $150,000 SINCE 1997 Tanaglia, Sandra Duerksen, Daniel (Allen) $100,000 We aim to swear in 130 new CASA Finley, Abby Johnson, Candy $50,000 volunteers, which will allow us to serve SINCE 2018 Johnson, Darrell $0 500 children. In order to reach our SINCE 1999 CARTER, Geraldine Lewis, Joanne goals, we are committed to raising Johnson, Jan Hanvy, Nikole Geeters, Sheron 2022 Donations $250,000 by the end of 2022. Ives, Kyle 10/1/2021 to 9/30/2022 SINCE 2003 Shanks, Wyatt and Meggie SINCE 2021 With your help and support we have Malachowski, Wendy Sweeney, Harold Beyer, Laurie $59, 248.43 raised so far. raised $59,248.43 so far. To reach our Jones, Karly Cossey, Renade goal of helping 500 more children, we SINCE 2006 Lowry, Margaret Smith, Patty still need you, our community, to help Parks, Julie Samuel, Grace Bowen, Mary bring us to our goal. Please consider Gerke, Michelle Lynde, Tom making a donation. SINCE 2007 Huckstep, Gary Teague, Marilyn Rios, Julio Purl, Jo Witt, Petrea Your donation will Change Abels, Jackie Hilton, Stan A Child’s Story™. SINCE 2008 Smith, David Schlupp, Constance SINCE 2019 Gissal, Bill Help us change a child’s story. Sink, Amanda Webb, Deborah There are many ways for you to help: SINCE 2010 Babcock, Bob Welden, Donna • Donate Luchini, Gataeno DePasqua, Mark McGinniss, Debra • Become a Program Sponsor Bock, Daniel Brady, Erin Diduch, Patricia • Sponsor an event Hartman, Amanda Miller, Joan • Become a CASA Volunteer and SINCE 2012 Keho, Jeffrey Sims, Gabrielle Caravello, Susan Loner, Elizabeth Clark, Marilyn advocate for a child Passwaters-Cordero, Lindsay Montgomery, Dwan • Become a part of of board SINCE 2013 VonDriska, Paul Christianson, Karen • Become an event chair Caruana, Gina Becker, Lindsay Pickett, Sharon • Like, follow and share our content Churchville, Evelyn Rogowski, Kathy Leslie, Elaine J. Edwards, Kathi Wiersma, Christa Sargent, Mary on social media Kramer, Diana Hagerty, Carrie Schnell, Kate • Join our Friends of Winnebago Slick, Wendy Landsee, Lisa SINCE 2014 Wilson, Kristin Gentry, Jill County CASA Facebook Group Marinelli, Kathleen Kirschmann, Janelle Mulvain, Sara Moore, Brynn Kwitonda, Emmanuel Wing, Diane Silva, Lidia Bartelli, Susan Campbell, Susan SINCE 2020 Shivers, Burnette Evans, Melanie Shaver, Ron Lawrence, Amanda Williams, Sue Simmons, Michael Angileri, Andrea Nelson, Deb SINCE 2015 Knudson, Jessica Smith, Lisa Winsett, Britteny Tewani, Asha Arroyave, Natalia Yundt, Jill Kentner, Ashley Altier, Cynthia Kentner, Zach Lofton, Jacqueline SINCE 2016 Mattocks, Mari Hume, Angella Siggelkov, Heidi

CHILD DEMOGRAPHICS DONORS 1/1/2021 TO 12/31/2021 THANKS FOR YOUR COMMITTMENT AND SUPPORT! #85 #29 GENDER DONATIONS • Ms. Gail Farr • Mr. and Mrs. Tyler Nalley White Hispanic 10/01/20 - 09/30/21 • Dr. and Mrs. Terrance N. Fisher • Mrs. Sunil Nanayakkara • Mrs. Mary Lou Fitzpatrick • Hon. Steven M. Nash #68 RACE # 53.47% 46.53% $0-$100 • Ms. Lindsay Freeberg • Ms. Theresa Nelson Two or more Female Male • Mr. Gene S. Anderson • Ms. Stephanie Fuhr • Ms. Keri Nelson and Ms. Margaret E. Berkheimer • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Geissler • Hon. & Mrs. Steven L. Nordquist races • Mr. and Mrs. William E. Ax • Mr. and Mrs. Jason Gesmer • Mr. and Mrs. Jan Ohlander • Ms. Kim Ball • Mrs. Helen M. Gibbons • Mr. and Mrs. Gary Ollmann #34 #149 • Hon and Mrs. Ron Barch • Ms. Becky Girard • Ms. Jessica Parker Unknown- Black or African • Ms. Shawna Bartimoccia • Ms. Marsha Goodheart • Mr. and Mrs. Greg Parsons • Dr. and Mrs. William Baskin • Ms. Glasa Gottschalk • Ms. Cassandra Paulsen Unknown/Unwilling American • Ms. Beverly Baxter • Ms. Jocelyn Graber • Ms. Cheryl Peters • Ms. Kelley Beard • Ms. Pat Green • Ms. Karen Peterson to report • Mr. and Mrs. Ray Beets • Ms. Linda Greene • Mr. and Mrs. Walter Pfeilschifter • Jarvis Bell • Dr. and Mrs. Roger Greenlaw • Dr. and Mrs. Owen Phelps 331Total Children Served: 177 Female 154 Male • Ms. Laura Bennett • Ms. Melinda Hagerman • Mr. and Mrs. David Picchioni 114Total Advocates: Children Children • Ms. Victoria Benson • Mr. and Mrs. James P. Hansberry • Mr. Jacob C. Piper Served Served • Mr. and Mrs. Tony Berg • Mr. and Mrs. John Hargrove • Mr. and Mrs. James R. Pirages • Dr. Gurpreet Bhamra • Ms. Mary Harnden • Mrs. Jane Purin Total Children Who • Mr. and Mrs. Cornell Bondurant • Ms. Linda Hedlund • Ms. Kristine Quinn Were Reunited or • Ms. Lori Bracey • Ms. Jean A. Hembrough • Ms. Veronica Ramirez • Mr. and Mrs. Chris Brady • Ms. June Hinz • Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Remillard 110Found Permanency: • Mrs. Pat Branch • Ms. Meg Hodge • Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Reschke • Ms. Jill Briscoe • Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hoople • Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Riggs AGE 4 94 59 55 50 69 • Mr. Marcus Brown • Ms. Suzanne Hopps • Mr. and Mrs. Tom Roland • Hon. and Mrs. Joseph J. Bruce • Mr. and Mrs. Charles Jackson • Mr. and Mrs. William C. Roop 1.21% 28.39% 17.82% 16.61% 15.11% 20.85% • Hon. and Mrs. Joseph Bruscato • Ms. Linda Juester • Mr. and Mrs. Steven J. Rosella • Ms. Daisy Brzezinska • Mr. and Mrs. James Keeling • Ms. Yeager and Mr. Rosen 0-11 Months 1-5 Years 6-8 Years 9-11 Years 12-14 Years 15-18+ Years • Ms. Erin Buhl • Mr. Jeffrey Keho • Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rundquist • Ms. Theresa Cagnoni • Ms. Laura Kenyon • Hon. and Mrs. R. Craig Sahlstrom • Ms. Roseann Cannariato • Mr. Jerry Kinsley • Ms. Amy Salvi • Mr. Jon Carlson • Mr. Emmanuel Kwitonda • Ms. Ann Sanchez • Ms. Sandra Carter • Ms. Carly L. LaMonica • Ms. Lorinda Schiller • Mrs. Mary Caskey • Dr. and Mrs. Herbert P. Lash • Ms. Elana Schilling-Tuffe • Mr. and Mrs. Curt Cedarleaf • Mr. Richard T. Leighton • Mr. and Mrs. Mark Schlupp • Ms. Rebecca Chinery • Ms. Joanne Lewis • Ms. Stella Schroeder • Mr. and Mrs. Roland Christen • Mr. and Mrs. Santiago Lopez • Mr. Mark Schultz • Mr. and Mrs. Derek Coleman • Ms. Catherine Maculan • Mr. and Mrs. Douglas P. Scott • Ms. Jessica Collett • Ms. Jan Malone • Mrs. Charles Sensel • Ms. Diane Conklin • Ms. Elizabeth Mandor • Mr. Robert Simmons • Ms. Becky Cook-Kendall • Ms. Crystal Maney • Ms. Gabrielle Natasha Sims • Mr. Peter Damby • Dr. and Mrs. Michael Manley • Ms. Mary Ann Smith • Ms. Jeneva Davis • Mr. W. David Mark • Mr. and Mrs. John Strandin • Ms. Nicole DeBruler • Ms. Cheryl Marshall and Mr. Ray Knutson • Mrs. Carol J. Swenson • Ms. Kim Dickinson • Ms. Amber Martin • Mr. John Terranova • Mrs. Susan Drennan • Ms. Cathy Martin • Mr. and Mrs. Duane Teske • Ms. Christine Engblom • Ms. Ann H. Mathers • Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tetzloff • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Engelbrecht • Mr. and Mrs. Ralph McBride • Mr. and Mrs. Rich Toppe • Mr. and Mrs. Leland Erickson • Ms. Vickie McGrane • Mr. Steve Triplett • Ms. Sharon Erickson • Mr. and Mrs. John Mecklenburg • Ms. Kristine Tukker • Mr. and Mrs. Ted Erickson • Mr. and Mrs. David Miller • Sandra Vance • Ms. Kelli Marie Evans • Ms. Therese M. Moncelle • Dr. and Mrs. James V. Vecchio • Mr. and Mrs. Michael Eviston • Mrs. Dwan Montgomery • Hon. Richard W. Vidal and Ms. Judy Emerson • Mr. James Ewing • Mr. Joe Mullikan • Mr. and Mrs. Evans E. Walker

DONORS THANKS FOR YOUR COMMITTMENT AND SUPPORT! • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Walsh • Mr. and Mrs. Erich Hagenlocher $501+ REUNITED AND IT • Ms. Rachael Lee Warren • Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hoffman • Mr. and Mrs. Scott Adkins FEELS SO GOOD! • Ms. Ann Wasser • Mr. and Mrs. John Holmbeck • Anonymous • Mr. and Mrs. Greg Watt • Mr. and Mrs. David Holmertz • Mr. Paul Baudhuin Reunited and it feels so good! After our 2020 • Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Weber • Mr. Donald Holt • Mr. and Mrs. Ingvar Carlson Advocate’s Club- From Home event, we • Dr. and Mrs. Sheldon A. Weiss • Mr. and Mrs. Brian Huels • Ms. Ali Chance really were happy to be back with everyone • Rev. William R. Wentink • Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Jasper • Mr. Ron Clewer and it showed. The food was delicious, the • Mr. and Mrs. David Whitehouse • Mr. Robert Kartheiser • Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Derry music was festive, and the fireworks were • Mr.and Mrs. William Wilhelmi • Dr. Kathleen Kelly and Dr. Arnold Rosen • Mrs. Barbara Erickson magical. We want to thank our sponsors and • Mr. and Mrs. Duane Wilke • Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Leslie • Timothy C. Gaffney everyone that attended. Together we had • Kristin Wilson • Mr. Norman Lindstedt and Ms. Roberta • Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Geraghty another safe and successful event. • Mr. and Mrs. Verne Winter Holzworth • Dr. and Mrs. Bill Gorski • Mr. and Mrs. K. P. Yarbrough • Mr. and Mrs. Rod Link • Mrs. Darlene Hanna See you at the 2022 Advocate’s Club. • Mrs. Faye J. Young • Hon. and Mrs. Brendan Maher • Ms. Becky Harding-Morris • Honorable John H. Young • Ms. Sarah E Mark • Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Holmertz CASA In My Church: Help us celebrate Winnebago County CASA’s new monthly program, • Ms. Megan Zanocco • Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Marko • Mr. and Mrs. David Kloepfer “CASA In My Church.” A unique partnership with local churches to raise awareness of our • Joyce Matos • Mr. Christopher Korab mission. $101-$500 • Mr. and Mrs. Nick Maveus • Ms. LoRayne Logan 2nd Annual Volunteer Fair: Join us Friday, April 1st, for our 2nd annual Volunteer Fair at • Ms. Linda Andrews • Mr. and Mrs. Tom Mc Ginniss • Mr. Mark Marko the Rockford City Market from 5 PM-8 PM (lower level). Learn more about becoming a • Anonymous • John and Maureen Morrissey • Hon. and Mrs. Francis Martinez volunteer in the community while shopping locally. • Dr. and Mrs. Lee Bach • Mr. and Mrs. Fred G. Muehlfelder • John and Fran Morrissey Conversations With CASA: We will partner with local businesses and nonprofits to host • Dr.and Mrs. Trent Barnhart • Mr. and Mrs. Bryon Muraski • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Muldowney casual informative networking to build relationships, attract donors and educate potential • Mr. Lawrence M. Bauer • Mr. and Mrs. Stan Muraski • Mr. and Mrs. David Mulvain volunteers. • Mr. Tracy S. Beard • Mrs. Jessica Cheney-Nelson • Mr. Russel Passmore 38th Annual Heritage Run: at Midway Village Sunday, April 24th. Join us for a 5 mile or • Mr. and Mrs. Jack Becherer and Mr. Troy Nelson • Mr. and Mrs. Gary Randles 2-mile run/walk to celebrate our community’s heritage and help us reach our fundraising • Ms. Marcia Blassage • Mrs. Bonnie Nofsinger • Mr. and Mrs. Ron Shaver and awareness goals. • Mrs. Karen Blomgren • Mr. and Mrs. Tom Olsen Mr. and Mrs. Frank P. Vella, Jr. • Mr. Randy Bridgeland and Ms. Tina Rippy • Mr. John S. Olson • Ms. Tina Brown • Mr. and Mrs. Tom Pozzi DONATIONS • Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Capriola, Jr. • Hon. and Mrs. J. Edward Prochaska 10/1/21  - 1/15/22 • Mr. and Mrs. F. Taylor Carlin • Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Rudie • Mr. and Mrs. Paul Carlson • Ms. Joan Sage 0-$100 • Mr. and Mrs. John Clausen • Ms. Grace Samuel • Mr. and Mrs. Eugene D. Alfors • Mr. and Mrs. Adam Conti • Hon. Debra D. Schafer • Mr. and Mrs. William E. Ax • Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Cowles • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Schiller • Ms. Joan Picken Bailey-Murray • Ms. Emily Danielson • Ms. Virginia Sharp • Dr. and Mrs. William Baskin • Dr. Richard Deming • Ms. Gabrielle Sims • Mr. and Mrs. Ray Beets • Mr. and Mrs. Philip Dierstein • Ms. Amanda Sink • Mr. and Mrs. Tony Berg • James DiVerde • Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Spoden • Ms. Rosemary L. Bieck • Mr. and Mrs. Bob Doyle • Mr. James Stenberg • Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Bieck • Ms. Lakeyda Eason • Mr. and Mrs. Todd Stockburger • Mr. and Mrs. Rich Bowerman • Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Einhorn • Mr. and Mrs. Harold P. Sweeney • Mrs. Pat Branch • Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Erickson • Ms. Joan K. Ursin • Mr. John Brearley • Ms. Leslie Erickson • Mr. and Mrs. Stan Valiulis • Ms. Rebekah Brown • Mr. and Mrs. Peter Erickson • Mr. and Mrs. David Vella • Hon. and Mrs. Joseph J. Bruce • Mr. and Mrs. Mike Fager • Mr. and Mrs. James Waddell • Mrs. Janet Bursiek • Mr. Thomas Fitzgerald • Ms. Cindy Waddick • Mr. and Mrs. F. Taylor Carlin • Ms. Brittney Fry • Mrs. Miriam Warrner • Mr. Jon Carlson • Mr. Richard D. Gaines • Ms. Katrina Wilfong • Ms. Geri Carter • Mr. and Mrs. Othello Garganera • Chelsea Williams • Mrs. Mary Caskey • Mrs. Robert W. Gosdick • Mr. and Mrs. Dale Williams • Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Cavataio • Hon. Mary Linn Green and Mr. Donald Ufkin • Mr. and Mrs. Eric Wilson • Mr. and Mrs. Randy Cecil • Mr.and Mrs. Jerry Guinane • Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Witt • Ms. Diane Conklin • Mr. and Mrs. Ronald L. Gustafson • Mr. and Mrs. Larry Young

DARLENE DONATIONS • Mr. and Mrs. Todd Stockburger • Mr. and Mrs. Dale Williams • Ms. Jeanne Virtue HANNA’S STORY 10/1/21  - 1/15/22 • Mr. and Mrs. John J. Taphorn • Ms. Barbara Wilson • David A Waggoner • Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tetzloff • Mr. and Mrs. Eric Wilson • Mr. and Mrs. Martin J. Weightman “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just • Ms. Becky Cook- Kendall • Ms. Joan K. Ursin • Mr. and Mrs. Larry Young have the heart.” Elizabeth Andrew • Mr. and Mrs. Paul B. Cottrill • Hon. Richard W. Vidal In Memory of Joe Gibler • Mr. Dennis Dargel $501 and up • Ms. Sue Boyle The Annual Report of any organization includes all the data of • Mr. John Elbers II and Ms. Judy Emerson • Mr. and Mrs. Scott Adkins • Mr. and Mrs. Ron Shaver funding, achievements of the last year and the action plan for • Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Erickson • Mr. and Mrs. James Waddell • Ms. Elizabeth Dickinson • Mr. and Mrs. Lou Yeager the new year. All very important in bringing you information of • Dr. and Mrs. Terrance N. Fisher • Mr. and Mrs. Evans E. Walker • Dr. and Mrs. Bill Gorski how, with your help, we are fulfilling our mission to the children • Mr. Martin Gabriel • Mr. and Mrs. Rich Walsh • Mrs. Darlene Hanna In Memory of Lois and Brad Riggs we serve. However, this year as we are seeing growth in all • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Geissler • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Walsh • Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Jasper • Mr. and Mrs. David Mitchell aspects of our work, we felt it was also important to look back to the beginning of CASA in Winnebago • Mr. and Mrs. Greg Georgis • Mrs. Miriam Warrner • Ms. Judith Look • Mr. and Mrs. John H. Weir County and reflect on one person who was at the forefront of making it happen 34 years ago, Darlene • Mr. and Mrs. Jason Gesmer • Mr. and Mrs. Greg Watt • Mr. W. David Mark Hanna. • Mrs. Helen M. Gibbons • Mr. and Mrs. John H. Weir • Mr. Todd Tucker In Memory of Paul Dickover • Ms. Pat Green • Rev. William R. Wentink • Mr. Brian Dickover Darlene has been recognized by the Rockford Register Star, Alpine Kiwanis Club, Rockford Rotary Club, • Mr. and Mrs. Ronald L. Gustafson • Mr. and Mrs. David Whitehouse In Memory of Jerrianne Schneider Boy Scouts of America and Lifescapes for her volunteerism in our community. Looking at her resume, • Mr. and Mrs. James P. Hansberry • Ms. Cathy Wilcox • Mr. Richard Adduci In Honor of Erich and one might wonder how she did it all. She gives credit to her husband Don and sons David and Douglas’ • Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Heinzeroth • Mr. and Mrs. Duane Wilke • Ms. Elizabeth Archer Jan Hagenlocher for their support in helping her navigate these many volunteer activities. Darlene has held numerous • Ms. Jean A. Hembrough • Ms. Kristin Wilson • Mr. and Mrs. Cornell Bondurant • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Myers leadership roles in several organizations throughout our community. She was a founding member of both • Ms. Pat Henry • Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Yates • Mr. and Mrs. Jason E. Bronowski the Rockford Area Literacy Counsel and Winnebago County CASA and was also a founding member and • Ms. Jeanne Hess • Shelley Buckwalter In Honor of Sue and Bill Gorski President of Illinois CASA. Darlene also held leadership roles in the Boy Scouts of America program, the • Mr. Greg Ingraham $101-$500 • Todd R. Burton • Mr. and Mrs. Gary Randles Junior League of Rockford, Grace Lutheran Church and P.A. Peterson. She was also a member of the • Mr. and Mrs. Charles Jackson • Ms. Mary Jane Alexander • Kara Burwell • Mr. and Mrs. Erich Hagenlocher Rockford School Board. • Ms. Carrie Johnson • Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Bartimoccia • Mr. Corey Crain • Mr. Jeffrey Keho • Mr. Lawrence M. Bauer • Ms. Anna Derocher and In Honor of Pat Green Darlene’s chairmanship on the Junior League’s Project Development Committee connected her with • Dr. and Mrs. Thornton C. Kline, Jr. • Mr. and Mrs. Roland Christen • Colleen M. Donovan CASA. In 1985, Judge Brandner Riggis, whom we highlighted in our June newsletter, contacted the • Dr. and Mrs. Herbert P. Lash • Mr. Ron Clewer Mr. Edward Geeser Junior League of Rockford in an effort to start a local CASA program. Considering Darlene was part of • Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Leslie • Mr. and Mrs. Adam Contiv • Mr. and Mrs. Ellwyn C. Englof In Honbor of Gerrie Gustafson the County’s Child Protection Association, they asked her to form and lead the Board of Directors. In • Ms. Faye Marcus • Dr. John and Dr. Susan DeGuide • Federal Bar Association • Ms. Robin Griswold 1988, Darlene and other members of the Junior Board formed the first CASA Board of Directors. Darlene • Ms. Marie Marko • Dr. Richard Deming • Monica Frank presided over the board for the first four years after its formation. Since that time, Darleen has chaired or • Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Marko • Mr. and Mrs. Peter Erickson • Atty. Paul Gaziano and Hon. In Honor of Erich and Jan been a member of just about every committee CASA has to offer. We express much gratitude to Darlene • Ms. Ann H. Mathers • Mrs. Mary Lou Fitzpatrick Hagenlocher for all that she has done and continues to do for CASA. She has been a gift to this community in so many • Mr. and Mrs. Ralph McBride • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Furst Rosemary Collins • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Myers ways and we thank her for helping start a program that has positively impacted so many children in our • Mr. and Mrs. John J. Morrissey • Mr. Richard D. Gaines • Mr. and Mrs. John C. Gile community. Thank you Darlene for all your years of service to both CASA and our community! • Ms. Jeanette Murphy • Mr. and Mrs. Bill Gissal • Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Goers In Honor of Kathy Marinelli • Mr. and Mrs. John Myers • Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hoffman • Elizabeth Hansen • Ingvar and Jean Carlson “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” Winston Churchill • Mrs. Sunil Nanayakkara • Mr. and Mrs. John Holmbeck • Ms. Joan Hurd • Hon. Steven M. Nash • Mr. and Mrs. Curtis J. Ippolito • Ms. Angela Kelly In Honor of John F. and Fran • Mr. and Mrs. Frank Nelson • Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Keating • Emily C. Kennedy Morrissey, John J. Morrissey and • Mr. and Mrs. Gary Ollmann • Dr. Arnold Rosen and • Adam P. King Mary Beth Claussen • Ms. Cheryl Peters • Emily Layton • The Employees of the Morrissey • Mr. and Mrs. Walter Pfeilschifter Dr. Kathleen Kelly • Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Leslie • Dr. and Mrs. Owen Phelps • Mr. and Mrs. David Kloepfer • Mr. and Ms. Lewandowski Family Businesses • Mr. and Mrs. David Picchioni • Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kneller • Gordon Lewis • Mr. and Mrs. James R. Pirages • Ms. Erin Leslie • Ms. Patricia Lewis In Honor of Gabby Sims • Mrs. Marge Price • Mr. Norman Lindstedt and Ms. • Ms. Terri Lindmark • Leatrice Satterwhite • Mrs. Jane Purin • Ms. Martha Martin • Mr. and Mrs. Willie Reed Roberta Holzworth • Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Mattison In Honor of Paula Zillhart • Ms. Jean Reese • Mr. and Mrs. Rod Link • Mr. and Mrs. Nick Maveus • Ms. Gina Bryzgalski • Ms. Carol Rieker • Mr. and Mrs. Fred G. Muehlfelder • Karen McCabe • Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Riggs • Mr. and Mrs. Stan Muraski • Ms. Edna McLaughlin • Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Rudie • Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Myers • Mallory Morton • Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rundquist • Hon. & Mrs. Steven L. Nordquist • Jeanette Murphy • Ms. Ann Sanchez • Mr. and Mrs. Jan Ohlander • Mr. and Mrs. Terry E. Nichols • Ms. Florence Sandberg • Mr. and Mrs. Tom Olsen • John Osborn • Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Schiller • Ms. Carolyn Padden • Ms. Catherine Peterson • Ms. Marilyn Schrom • Mr. Steve Primrose • Brian Rauch • Mr. and Mrs. Douglas P. Scott • Hon. and Mrs. J. Edward • Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Remillard • Ms. Virginia Sharp • Mr. Dan Schneider • Mr. Michael Simmons Prochaska • Walter C. Schneider • Mr. and Mrs. Jack L. Simon • Ms. Wanda Raner • Dennis Scruggs III • Ms. Mary Ann Smith • Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Spoden • Ms. Deborah Severson • Mr. James Stenberg • Elizabeth Squire-Delaney • Mr. and Mrs. Harold P. Sweeney • Ms. Eleanor M. Sword • Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Weber

MARI MATTOCKS COURT-APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES CHANGE LIVES ADVOCATE REPRESENTATIVE “Being in foster care is living in a constant state of flux, Home schools, families...everything WHY BE A CASA is always changing, often suddenly and without warning. The only constant was my CASA VOLUNTEER? volunteer. Without her, I would have been lost in the system.” If any of you have wondered about becoming a volunteer, it is best to talk with someone who MELISSA, FORMER FOSTER YOUTH has been or is a CASA. Being a CASA and being a child’s advocate is interchangeable when talking about what we do. There are thousands of advocates throughout the United States and just over 100 in Winnebago County. Some CASA Programs are able to cover every child that is in their county court system. At this time we are able to advocate for about 1/3 of the 1000+ children in the Winnebago County Court system for abuse and/or neglect. One of our volunteers is Mari Mattocks who has been a CASA volunteer for three years and has advocated for eight children during that time. She also volunteers as the Advocate Representative on the Board of Directors. I asked Mari the following questions to get her perspective on being a CASA. WHAT IS IT LIKE A CASA becomes part of a team that includes BEING A CASA? social workers, attorneys, foster parents, teachers and family members that work hard toward identifying the immediate needs of a child and what is in their best interest going forward. Usually the child is taken out of the home and put into foster care as their case moves through the court system. A CASA is the one constant in that child’s life. Caseworkers can change often, so can foster care homes. But the CASA is that one person a child can count on to always be there for them.

ANN BRUCE’S WHY BE Being a volunteer, there is obviously no pay for STORY A CASA? your services. So, it is a passion to do something that will help someone else. To be the voice for a Hello! In January 2021 I joined CASA as child in court is truly more of a calling for me. the Recruitment Outreach Coordinator, and it has been a rewarding and amazing journey. As you may know, it takes a special individual WHAT DO YOU It is really meaningful to see that I can make to take on the role as CASA Advocate/GAL LIKE ABOUT a difference in a child’s life and their future because of the nature and complexity of the BEING A CASA? by giving a voice to those that can’t speak for role in working with children from abuse and themselves. I like to give back in my life. neglect homes. The selection process in ANN BRUCE which a CASA Advocate/GAL is chosen is not RECRUITMENT AND Giving back to my community is important to an easy one nor one that we take lightly. We OUTREACH COORDINATOR me. These children are our future. There is great only accept the best of the best because our satisfaction in knowing you played a significant children deserve the best. role in changing a child’s life with the goal being placement in a permanent, safe and loving home. Last year we were able to reach seven hundred individuals to share CASA’s mission and need for more volunteers. We went into churches, colleges, and businesses to educate the community about the role of a CASA Advocate/GAL and the tremendous impact a CASA volunteer has on our children. We partnered with other area nonprofit agencies to host Winnebago County CASA’s first Volunteer Fair, “A Day of Sharing Hope,” in which we were able to bring more awareness to the community about CASA and provide support to collaborative agencies. The agency-to-agency collaboration is the first of many more to come with CASA Please consider becoming a CASA leading the initiative. This is just a drop in the bucket of our recruitment efforts and we volunteer and making a difference have set a goal to recruit over 130 new CASAs by the end of 2022. You can help us in a child’s life. achieve our goal by sharing our mission, sharing our posts on your social media, and inviting us to speak at your organization and affiliations. Please use your mobile device’s camera to scan Thank you for your continued support and cheers to meeting and exceeding goals in 2022! the QR code. LEARN MORE www.WinnebagoCountyCASA.org

2021 This commitment to the quality • Respects and is committed standards to measure our to quality for the children A YEAR OF operations demonstrates that and families served and that Winnebago County CASA: volunteers provide best-interest TRANSITION advocacy Additionally, through our Amidst a global pandemic and locally transition to these new • Utilizes established policies increasing numbers of abused and neglected standards, we crafted our and procedures necessary for children in Winnebago County, Winnebago 2022 Winnebago County effective management and County CASA committed to changing the CASA growth plan, that as governance way we operate and measure outcomes of implemented, will allow us our program. to better meet the needs of • Manages financial affairs Winnebago County Children prudently, is financially sound, Last year, our CASA program transitioned who have been abused or and is committed to the principles through the adoption of these 11 new neglected. of public disclosure National CASA standards and more than This growth plan created the 150 accompanying Elements of Practice path to hiring our Executive • Continually evaluates its services by reviewing, adopting, and implementing Director who will ensure we and operations requisite plans, policies, and procedures. stay focused on our growth and standards which will help • Works positively and We also engaged with our state CASA us achieve our 2022 fund collaboratively with stakeholders, Association to audit these guiding documents development, volunteer, and state organization, other local and procedures to ensure our future toward advocacy goals. programs and with the National growth and improved outcomes for the children CASA/GAL Association we serve. • Recruits, trains, develops and supports a high-caliber team through effective human resource practices