CASA enjoys new location

CASA of North Arkansas hosted a ribbon cutting with the Harrison Regional Chamber of Commerce ambassadors and board members on April 29.

Melissa Collins, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors said, “CASA is such a staple and has been an important part of our community for a number of years. The Chamber is all about business, but it is also about promoting non-profit organizations in our community. Harrison is a tremendous giving community and CASA is one that helps the youth in the area.”

Senator Boozman’s office representative Elijah Snow said, “We appreciate the work that CASA does. This is a big deal and a big day.”

Harrison Mayor Jerry Jackson, “This is a special ribbon cutting for me. I had the honor of being on the founding board for CASA, and can you imagine 22 years ago when no one had heard of CASA trying to explain what a Court Appointed Special Advocates does? The board did a great job. In our family, Peggy has been on the board, a staff member and she was the first volunteer advocate for CASA. That’s where it really happens, between the advocate and the kids. We have a great judge —  Judge Susie, and we have the best director they’ve ever had.”

Executive director, Tracy Pape welcomed the crowd and introduced her “extraordinary team” and board of directors. “They keep us going in the right direction and provide financial oversight.”

CASA has been fighting for children in the 14th Judicial District, which is Baxter, Boone, Marion and Newton Counties since 2000. “We are a volunteer organization, our advocates have to go through 30 hours of training and observation before they can serve. They are the heart, soul and core of CASA. We wouldn’t exist without volunteers.”

Pape started as a volunteer in 2016. “It’s still my heart,” she said. “I’m lucky enough to stay involved with some cases. Healthy children — changing a child’s story and helping them find a safe permanent home —  that’s why we do what we do.”

A recent fundraiser, “Jeepin’ for CASA” raised $15,308 in profit. The event was held April 24 and 92 Jeeps participated. Becky Greenwood said, “We are so very thankful for all of our sponsors who donated for the silent auction and all who participated on a rainy day. We have set the date for April 23, 2022 for an even bigger and better event.”

“CASA’s volunteers gather information from court documents, social workers files, education, medical and therapy records. They speak for the children, and any other professionals in their lives. CASA uses this information to advocate and provide a first-hand voice for the child. They consider what’s in the child’s best interest and don’t work for anyone else,” Pape said.

For more information about CASA of North Arkansas email info@casaofna.org 

or visit casaofna.org or call 870-204-5489.