Louisville, KY – November 10, 2021 – CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of the River Region has been selected as the 2021 Governor’s Service Award (Non-Profit Group). The Kentucky Governor's Service Awards program offers a rare glimpse into the lives and achievements of Kentuckians who serve without expectation of compensation, recognition, or commendation. The Governor's Office launched the program in 1975, and since 1995 it has been in the capable hands of Serve Kentucky.
“Today we celebrate the resilient and selfless contributions of volunteers across the state. These individuals and organizations are living out their values and faith by helping others with no expectation of anything in return,” said Gov. Beshear. “Congratulations to the award recipients and thank you to all volunteers for letting your light shine throughout our commonwealth. You are such an important part of Team Kentucky.”
Gov. Andy Beshear and Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Eric Friedlander recognized volunteerism and service contributions across the commonwealth at the 26th Annual Governor’s Service Awards. This year’s award ceremony was held virtually on Wednesday, November 10 on Serve Kentucky’s Facebook page.
CASA volunteers are trained and are paired with children who have active cases of abuse and neglect. CASA volunteers become friends, mentors, and advocates to the most vulnerable children in our community and ensures they are living in a safe home, thriving at school, and receiving the services they need to overcome trauma.
“We are grateful to be recipients of the Governor’s Service Award. The award recognizes the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and staff who strive every day to improve the lives of children in our area. Last year, 214 volunteers advocated for 512 children. CASAs facilitated incredible advocacy despite the challenges of the pandemic, preventing children from falling through the cracks and ensuring they had at least one, consistent adult to be their friend and advocate,” said William Myers, President & CEO of CASA of the River Region.
Board Chair, Dr. Leon Mooneyhan, remarked “We are grateful to Serve Kentucky for their acknowledgement of the good work accomplished by our CASA volunteers and our program. CASA of the River Region is an exemplary organization which makes a tremendous difference in the lives of children.”
“It’s our honor to lift up volunteers – such as these award winners – who have given so much to their communities,” said Joe Bringardner, Serve Kentucky executive director. “They are local leaders who assess local needs and act by tackling the matter at its core – making our communities better.”
Since 1984, CASA of the River Region has trained volunteer advocates to support children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Operating in Jefferson, Henry, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble Counties, CASA of the River Region is Kentucky’s oldest and largest urban CASA program.
CASA volunteers are a voice for children in Jefferson, Henry, Oldham, Trimble, Shelby, and Spencer counties. Each volunteer spends roughly 1-4 hours per week on each case, with a combined average of 22,360 hours per year for all volunteers.
CASA of the River Region continues to recruit volunteers and donations to improve the lives of children in our community. To learn more, attend a virtual CASA 101, held every first and third Wednesday of the month. Info/RSVP: www.casarr.org/casa101
Watch the virtual ceremony here: https://fb.watch/9bYBPuzumf/
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