Podcasts about court appointed special advocates casa

After a long career in the corporate world, Beth Wilbur decided she would serve children as the Executive Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Monterey County.  She discusses the incredible work that CASA volunteers do to support children in the foster care system and how they change lives through their efforts.  She describes her motivation as a moral call to protect children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wendy's Wonderful Kids is a program of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption that for decades has focused on finding permanency for older youth in foster care, as well as children with special needs. The program, which received a $200 million commitment to expand in 2017, recently recorded its 15,000th adoption.Dave Thomas CEO Rita Soronen joins to discuss the experience of scaling up Wendy's Wonderful Kids and the lessons she learned along the way about how to get initial buy-in on an idea, and then keep support for it going. Rita Soronen has been the president and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption since 2001. Prior to joining the foundation, Ms. Soronen served as the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. Thanks to SpeakWrite for serving as lead sponsor of this episode!Reading Room10,000 Adoptions Later: Wendy's Wonderful Kidshttps://imprintnews.org/podcast/10000-adoptions-laterWendy's Wonderful Kids: The Biggest Game in Adoption Todayhttps://imprintnews.org/adoption/wendys-wonderful-kids-biggest-game-adoption-today/30696Nonprofits Are Simultaneously Contemplating Strategy on Two Frontshttps://imprintnews.org/adoption/nonprofits-are-simultaneously-contemplating-impact-on-two-fronts/41366

And we're back! (Well, almost.) Season 3 hasn't officially begun, but in the meantime, we've got a special off-the-record bonus episode for you. This time, we're interviewing TWO mystery guests—a couple, Lisa & Josh. One is a Cancer, the other a Scorpio. Can Sarah suss out which water sun is which? Play along by grabbing the Case Files from our website http://astrodetectivespod.com/ and listen wherever you get your podcasts.Check out our post-case astro chat, DEBRIEF which is available right now on Patreon with a Free Membership! https://www.patreon.com/AstroDetectivesDownload the top secret AstroDetectives Case Files on our website! Inside you'll find the charts and a copy of the guest's pre-show survey. Visit http://astrodetectivespod.com for the case files & more!To get involved with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) organizations that Lisa works with, just search for one in your area or visit ⁠https://nationalcasagal.org⁠ To find the amazing bees and honey that Josh works with visit ⁠https://www.summerfieldhoney.comContact Sarah Hartshorne for Human Design & Astrology readings at http://hartshorneastrology.com/ and at @sarah.hartshorne.astro on Instagram.Wanna be a guest on our show? Email Scott at AstroDetectives@gmail.com.Wanna support the show? Sign up for the Rookie Detective Tier for $3/month and receive special Patreon-exclusive bonus episodes & content! https://www.patreon.com/AstroDetectives#astrology #astrologers #astrologypodcasts #spiritualpodcast #leo #sagittarius #plutoinaquarius #mercuryretrograde #astrodetectives #sagittariusseason #marsretrograde

With the announcement of the season's first major snow storm, Barry shares his frantic 'hunting trip' to find milk and the joy of shoveling snow...sort of. Also on this episode, Angela Crawford discusses the need for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Shenandoah and Page Counties to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. On the final segment, Lavenda Denney with the Winchester Area SPCA announces the "You Give ... They Live" campaign whereby donations will be doubled up to a total of $25,000 to save dogs and cats.  

  This week Ivy Slater, host of Her Success Story, chats with her guest, Suzanne Stone. The two talk about  the critical role of physical activity in cancer recovery through the Livestrong at the Y program, the importance of scaling nonprofit efforts for greater impact, and the challenges of maintaining an organization's mission amidst public controversies. In this episode, we discuss: How transferable skills from early career experiences can impact nonprofit leadership roles. What the 12 week Livestrong at the Y program entails and its significance on focusing on long term health for cancer survivors. Why post-treatment movement is essential for both physical and mental health. How Suzanne transitioned from volunteer roles in Texas to leading Livestrong. Why collaboration, partnership and building a network for scalable change are key to making a significant impact. Why the focus on quality of life beyond survival is important for young cancer survivors.   Suzanne Stone President and CEO of Livestrong   Suzanne is a graduate of Texas Christian University and a native of Louisiana. Her career began in the television industry in Dallas, earning a regional Emmy Award for her work.  She eventually traded producing television for teaching it in the non-profit sector in 1998, working in public access television both in Naperville, Illinois, and then in upstate New York. After enjoying her four-year tenure as Head Coach of the local New York community college women's basketball team while running the station, she headed back to Texas. Since arriving, she's worked and led local non-profits around the state like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Children's Miracle Network, Lake Travis Education Foundation, and Susan G. Komen Greater Central and East Texas.  Continuing to look for ways to scale social impact, she joined Livestrong to lead their mission initiatives in 2019.  In November of 2023 she became President & CEO where she leads the team to ensure anyone affected by cancer has the resources and tools they need to have the highest quality of life possible.  

Decisions made in court hold a lot of weight for the futures of children and families. Due to the impact that decision could potentially have, the role Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) was introduced to ensure all information was being considered. The role of a CASA before began in 1977. Today, 939 state CASA/GAL organizations operate in 49 states, which serve 242,000 children annually. Travis and Stephanie Johnson are two of the dedicated volunteers who serve the foster care community in their role as CASAs. In this episode, you'll hear more about what it means to be a CASA, what the weekly responsibility often looks like, why Travis and Stephanie stepped into this role, and more valuable insights from their experience. Show Notes: https://theforgotteninitiative.org/travis-stephanie-johnson-232/ Give to The Forgotten Initiative: https://theforgotteninitiative.org/give/

“What people don't understand about Juvenile Court is that literally two-thirds of the cases that we deal with are about the parents.”  –Judge Calloway Judge Sheila Calloway, Davidson County's Juvenile Court Judge, and Lonnell Matthews, Davidson County's Juvenile Court Clerk, are two of Nashville's most accomplished individuals. They are an entertaining pair, but are serious about bettering the lives of “our kids.” They discuss misconceptions about the work of the Juvenile Court, the Nashville Youth Campus for Empowerment (coming in 2027), and recent legislation that will dramatically impact the juvenile justice system. Spoiler alert: the TN General Assembly did not seek their input, but they remain open and ready to assist when asked…hint, hint. Julieanna Huddle is the Executive Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Julieanna explains the mission of CASA and how YOU can make a difference in the lives of all of our children who are in desperate need of an advocate.

Host, Dr. Catherine Cerulli (Kate), a professor of Psychiatry at the University of Rochester, is joined by her guest, Chad Frymire, the Director of Public Policy at Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Dallas, Texas, and the Board President of the North Texas Coalition Against Human Trafficking. In this episode, Chad and Kate discuss Chad's work within the foster care and child welfare systems, child abuse and neglect, and how human trafficking crosses into these areas. CASA works closely with foster care systems throughout the United States to advocate for the best interests of children who experience child abuse and neglect, maltreatment within the child welfare system or from their domestic families. Chad details the important and impactful work he and volunteers have done for children throughout the state of Texas. They explore volunteer recruitment, retainment, and diversity in this space. Chad explores how he became involved with human trafficking work through a personal anecdote that connects him to the work. Chad's unique experience led him to meaningful work in the foster care system and in turn, the human trafficking arena. Traffickers often prey on vulnerable populations to manipulate and take advantage of them; children in the foster care system are at high risk of being trafficked due to their past experiences with child abuse and neglect, maltreatment, and wary relationships with adults and others. Through his work, Chad and his team have created trainings in human trafficking prevention to educate others as human trafficking is a large domestic problem and can happen to anyone, anywhere. It is critical for advocates to have the knowledge and resources to continue serving children who are at risk. Chad shares information and key warning signs of trafficking in children, mechanisms that traffickers use to persuade and manipulate children, and how youth with an online presence can become dangerous for their safety. The episode also covers vicarious trauma and ways that Chad and Kate care for themselves while working with traumatized populations so that they can mitigate burnout and continue to serve children in need. Keep up with upcoming projects from Chad and Dallas CASA at: https://www.dallascasa.org/

Our friend Kimberley Vuitel has been working with Mosby Building Arts to transform her home into a masterpiece. Kimberley shares a first-hand experience of the process. Kimberley is on the Board of Directors at Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children St. Louis. 

In this episode of Wicked Energy with JG, host Justin sits down with Mark Freeman, CEO of ProDirectional, to explore the future of the energy industry and directional drilling technology. They delve into the challenges faced by the energy market, the significance of rig count, and the long-term potential of natural gas as a fuel source. The conversation also covers the role of the US in LNG exports and its impact on energy security. A vital topic discussed in this episode is mental health in the oil and gas industry, where Mark emphasizes the importance of support and advocacy for affected individuals. They highlight Mental Health America of Greater Houston's work on integrating mental and physical healthcare and discuss the support provided by the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) organization for children in foster care. Focusing on the technical aspects, Justin and Mark discuss directional drilling remote operations and automation, the benefits of remote operations such as increased efficiency, improved information sharing, and better HSE outcomes. They also explore the future of directional drilling, which includes more automation, reduced personnel intensity, and an emphasis on consistency, repeatability, and accuracy. The conversation touches on the importance of fossil fuels in providing cheap, abundant, and accessible energy, the role of natural gas in reducing carbon emissions, and the need to support all economically and environmentally sensible energy forms. The podcast highlights the importance of educating and informing people about energy issues and encourages discussions and cooperation between both sides of the energy debate. The ongoing energy transition process is emphasized as a crucial factor in shaping the industry's future. If you are interested in learning more or connecting, see the links below: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-freeman-7751022/ Company Page:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/prodirectional/ Website:  https://www.prodirectional.com/ Show SponsorsInflowControlInflowControl is a technology company that helps oil companies improve the efficiency of oil production while reducing the industry's environmental impact with their Autonomous Inflow Control Valve (AICV®). This breakthrough technology improves oil production by reducing unwanted gas and water which enables mature oil fields to be more profitable by supporting oil production from zones that would have typically been bypassed. This provides oil companies and its stakeholders with Lower Carbon Oil and higher profitability. To learn more, visit the links below: Website: www.inflowcontrol.no LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inflowcontrol-as/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqdgIooQhYtUBo-auUlYw-Q The Oil PatchThe Oil Patch is the way to get "Your energy news fix in 5 minutes or less, delivered straight to your inbox." Subscribe today. www.theoilpatch.co  Wicked EnergyFor more info on Wicked Energy, please visit  www.wickedenergy.io. For the video version, please visit the Wicked Energy YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL5PSzLBnSb7u1HD1xmLOJg

Susan Wright Kenny is the Founder and Chief Do GOODer of Do GOODer Partners, a consulting firm that empowers companies to engage their teams and customers in doing GOOD in the communities where they live and work. Prior to founding Do GOODer Partners, Susan worked for close to 20 years a professional fundraiser supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). While working with MDA, Susan was responsible for the coordination and funding for healthcare clinics, support groups, and summer camps throughout Southern California. As MDA's National Director of Retail Partnerships and Community Engagement, she worked with Albertsons/Vons/Pavilions, Lowe's, Kroger, and other retailers to execute their annual customer engagement events resulting in millions of dollars raised for muscle disease research. While working with RMHC, Susan was instrumental in the National Roofing Contractors Association's first ever national charitable partnership with RMHC. Prior to leaving RMHC, she was the lead fundraiser for the $12 million capital campaign to double the size of the Orange County House. Susan has volunteered her time to plan and fund the Association of Fundraising Professionals education seminar, OneOC's Spirit of Volunteerism Awards, and the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce Women of Influence events. In addition, she has been a Board member to Advisors in Philanthropy and currently sits on the Advisory Board for the Extraordinary Lives Foundation. She is a founding member of the 100 Women Who Care Orange County Chapter and volunteers her time for numerous nonprofit organizations. Susan is a graduate of the University of Arizona and has a Human Resource Management Certificate from the University of California, Irvine. She is the proud parent of two incredible teenagers and dreams that one day every person and every company in the world will find their passion partner to do GOOD and create meaningful change. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Rev. Dr. Caroline Addington Hall, Rector of St. Benedict's Episcopal Church in Los Osos, has been recognized this year by the office of Congressional Representative Salud Carbajal as an outstanding Women of the Year Award recipient. Caro has been our friend, colleague and partner in working for positive change in our Central Coast communities for decades. Rev. Hall has been described as tireless, fearless, and an incredible communicator. She is a published author, an advocate for the unhoused, for the LGBTQA+ community, for the environment, for social justice, for children, and for our furry and feathered friends. Caro doesn't just talk; she DOES!  One might ask: “How does she do all of this, and keep on going?” Jason and Gina are proud to share our conversation with Caro. We'll explore how her unwavering faith and dedication to justice has been a well of strength and sustenance that keeps her focused and energized for the work she does. Join us in our conversation with Rev. Caroline Hall (Caro) today! RELEVANT LINKS PFJ Unitarian Universalists San Luis Obispo (UUSLO) United Church of Christ (Congregational) of San Luis Obispo (UCC) St. Benedict's Episcopal Church (St. Ben's: A Place for All People) A Thorn in the Flesh: How Gay Sexuality is Changing the Episcopal Church Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA San Luis Obispo) Integrity USA Los Osos Cares GALA Pride and Diversity Center (San Luis Obispo) Homeless Services Oversight Council (San Luis Obispo) 2022 Women of the Year Award Winners (24th Congressional District) National Estuary Program ECOSLO Estero Bay Womanade   MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST Rev. Dr. Caroline Hall, affectionately known as “Caro” is a tireless advocate for the homeless, for the LGBTQ+ community, for the environment, for social justice, for children, and for our furry and feathered friends. She believes that being part of the solution is required for all of us to make our community, country, and world a better place for everyone. Reverend Hall was a founding director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for SLO, founding organizer of Los Osos Cares, founding member of Central Coast Clergy and Laity for Justice, president of People of Faith for Justice, former member of SLO County Homeless Service Oversight Council, and current member of Los Osos Advisory Councils Unhoused Residents committee. She organizes the Los Osos winter warming center and still finds time to volunteer with the National Estuary Program, Sierra Club, and ECOSLO. SUPPORT PFJ We greatly appreciate your financial support so that we can continue to educate, advocate and pray for the things that matter to our organization. Please consider donating through PayPal. People of Faith for Justice is a 501(c)(3) non-profit  organization.   CREDITS The People of Faith for Justice Podcast is produced and edited by Jeff Manildi Music for the People of Faith for Justice Podcast is provided by Andrew Gorman

For more than 30 years, Rita Soronen has worked on behalf of abused, neglected and vulnerable children, providing leadership for local, state and national efforts, working to improve the juvenile justice and child welfare systems while striving to assure safe and permanent homes for North America's children.Leading the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national nonprofit public charity, since 2001 and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption-Canada since 2004, Ms. Soronen works to find permanent families for the more than 135,000 waiting children in North America's foster care systems. Under her leadership, the Foundation has significantly increased its grant-making while developing strategic initiatives that act on the urgency of the issue. In 2021, the Foundation dedicated more than $40.9 million to grants and award-winning programs, such as Wendy's Wonderful Kids®, Adoption-Friendly Workplace™ and National Adoption Day. Additionally, through public service announcements, social media campaigns, articles, events, sponsorships and more, the Foundation is building awareness around the growing need for foster care adoption.Under Ms. Soronen's leadership, the Foundation created Wendy's Wonderful Kids in 2004 with seven pilot sites as a platform to engage more partners to transform failing child welfare practices and, most importantly, to aggressively find the right families for children waiting much too long to be adopted. In 2011, a rigorous, five-year national evaluation by Washington, D.C.-based Child Trends revealed that a child referred to the Wendy's Wonderful Kids program is up to three times more likely to be adopted. In 2017, with the support of the Blue Meridian Partners, the Foundation launched an aggressive, multi-year business plan to take Wendy's Wonderful Kids to scale in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. With support from the Foundation's partners and generous donors, more than 500 Wendy's Wonderful Kids recruiters have helped to find forever families for more than 12,000 children in foster care and counting across the U.S. and Canada.Prior to joining the Foundation, Ms. Soronen served as the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. During that time, she also served as the president of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio CASA/GAL Association and led the passage of specialty license plate legislation benefiting CASA programs throughout Ohio, as well as the design and implementation of model program standards assuring the consistent application of effective advocacy for children involved in court proceedings at the local and state levels.Ms. Soronen is a nationally recognized child welfare advocate. She has testified before the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Caucus on Foster Youth on the importance of foster care adoption. A requested national speaker on the topics of children, the child welfare system and social innovation, Ms. Soronen has been a featured presenter at events for the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Children Need Amazing Parents, National Association of County Commissioners, the National Council for Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children, the Philanthropy Roundtable and at While House adoption events, among others. Ms. Soronen is a founding board member and past vice president of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and is a current member of the advisory board. She also serves as a member of Barco's Nightingales Foundation's advisory board and the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children's board of trustees.Ms. Soronen is a founding board member and past vice president of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and is a current member of the advisory board. She also serves as a member of Barco's Nightingales Foundation's advisory board and the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children's board of trustees. Ms. Soronen is a recipient of the Angels in Adoption Award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, the National CASA Association Kappa Alpha Theta Program Director of the Year Award, the Ohio CASA/GAL Association Statewide Leadership Award and was a 2013 recipient of WSNY's 20 Outstanding Women You Should Know. She is a fellow of the Jefferson Fellowship for Executive Leadership; was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Community Leadership from Franklin University in 2016; was named a YWCA Woman of Achievement in 2017; was named a National Number One by the Columbus Foundation in 2018; and was honored with Smart Business Network's 2019 Smart 50 Program Award for Impact, Giving Back to the Community.A graduate of the University of Louisville, Ms. Soronen resides in Columbus, Ohio.Ms. Soronen is a member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council and shares insights regularly through articles with fellow council members. Read Ms. Soronen's latest articles.The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is the only public nonprofit charity in the United States that is focused exclusively on foster care adoption. Through its signature program, Wendy's Wonderful Kids®, the Foundation funds adoption professionals, known as recruiters, who are dedicated to finding loving, permanent homes for children waiting in foster care.The Foundation works closely with child welfare advocates and policymakers, provides free resources about foster care adoption and raises awareness through social media campaigns, public service announcements and events.More at:https://www.facebook.com/DaveThomasFoundationforAdoptionhttps://twitter.com/DTFAhttps://www.instagram.com/dtfa/https://www.youtube.com/user/DaveThomasFoundationhttps://www.davethomasfoundation.org/

As an adoptive and foster parent herself, CASA of NH CEO, Marty Sink knows what its like to care for some of New Hampshire's most vulnerable children. Her story around founding Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) here in NH is unique and may even surprise you. Tune in for more and stay for our new segment, The Buzz featuring both Matt & Nathan talking about the latest in business here in NH and nationwide.

Join us as we sit down with Marla Higginbotham to learn about the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program and how you can get involved in this important work. With CASA programs across the country, everyone can become a CASA.Marla has spent the last 20+ years working in the nonprofit sector helping shape public policy initiatives focused on both community engagement and children's education and well-being. After a successful 4 years as Executive Director CASA for Union County, Marla took the helm as Executive Director with CASA for Children of Essex County in NJ. Marla joined the CASA network from Jersey Cares where she was Senior Director of Operations and Foundation Relations. Marla is a former mediator/arbitrator for New Jersey's Alternative Dispute Resolution Unit and has served on the Board of Trustees for The Montclair Kimberley Academy. She received a law degree from the University of Cincinnati, College of Law and an undergraduate degree in Urban Studies and Political Science from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.Facebook @EssexAdvocatesInsta @casa_essexTwitter @EssexCASA

Join us as we sit down with Marla Higginbotham to learn about the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program and how you can get involved in this important work. With CASA programs across the country, everyone can become a CASA.Marla has spent the last 20+ years working in the nonprofit sector helping shape public policy initiatives focused on both community engagement and children's education and well-being. After a successful 4 years as Executive Director CASA for Union County, Marla took the helm as Executive Director with CASA for Children of Essex County in NJ. Marla joined the CASA network from Jersey Cares where she was Senior Director of Operations and Foundation Relations. Marla is a former mediator/arbitrator for New Jersey's Alternative Dispute Resolution Unit and has served on the Board of Trustees for The Montclair Kimberley Academy. She received a law degree from the University of Cincinnati, College of Law and an undergraduate degree in Urban Studies and Political Science from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.Facebook @EssexAdvocatesInsta @casa_essexTwitter @EssexCASA

The Boys and Girls Club of Door County has experienced a lot of turnover in recent years. New CEO Eric Blumreich joins Myles Dannhausen Jr. to talk about the future of the club, it's role in the community, and how he hopes to bring stability to the position and the organization. Blumreich comes to Door County from St. Norbert College, where he spend the last five years in development department, and Blumreich has been involved with a number of other youth-focused organizations including Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), International Youth Sailing of Oshkosh, and PALS as a mentor and board member.

Aaron Hinson is the epitome of what it means to be an independent mortgage broker. He runs a small team in a quaint town and is an involved community member. Aaron allows his clients the time and space to share their stories to personalize their loan process effectively. Hiring a small staff enables him to reinvest in his local community. In this episode of Broker To Broker, Aaron explains the steps he takes to succeed, reassuring that while it can take time to see success in this easily overwhelming industry, you only have to take one action at a time. Enjoying his life as a restaurant worker in college, Aaron eventually took his people skills to the mortgage industry. After learning from the retail side of the industry for a few years and becoming frustrated with the roadblocks and lack of freedom, Aaron transitioned to wholesale. “No matter how hard I tried, someone else was always in my way," Aaron says. Having more control and hands-on experience allowed for a more seamless process, allowing Aaron to be his true authentic self.  Aaron's transition included communicating more effectively with his clients. Instead of following a script or pushing the only products his bank offered, Aaron was now free to perfect his processes and procedures. “People can smell trust and intentions,” Aaron says. Aaron made it his number one goal to understand his clients. He pulls out a notepad or opens a Word document, and he asks questions including:  Where are you right now?What are your goals?What is most important to you?What is your vision? “I just shut up and listen,” Aaron explains.  People will tell you what they want; you have to listen. They might have heard something about mortgages before, and they may have done some research on it. Just tell them that you're all ears, and the progression from this point on will be more human. From here, do what makes Brokers Better. Use your expertise and freedom to personalize their loan. Use your experience to dial it into a product or financial solution that will fit them best. Let them get out what they want by opening the door. With success comes responsibility, and as the duties kept piling up, Aaron realized he couldn't do right by his clients or grow without a team. A new Contract Processor took the most time off his plate, but hiring a new LO and LOA has also been beneficial. And although this might sound counterintuitive in saving time, Aaron suggests hiring green employees. There is a lot of work on the front-end; answering questions, shadowing, and screen-sharing. Have them read the guidelines, but be the translator for them. Aaron took about eight months to train a new hire fully, but he affirms it has all been well worth it. In the selection process, look out for those that seem passionate and personable. Create a welcoming environment where team members can ask questions, and your employees will be beneficial and loyal.  Aaron's recommended Xinnix LO and LOA training goes a long way as well. The time commitment is the biggest hurdle. Just believe in the individual, and although it might not always come naturally, you have to do your best to have a long-term mindset. Another colossal time-saver for Aaron is a proper tech stack, which Aaron utilizes to focus on his weakness, social media marketing. It's always a work in progress, but a combination of Wikirealty, Flowify, and MBS Highway have helped him fill the gap. Sixty seconds here and sixty seconds there go a long way.  Aaron uses all this extra time to be an active community member. He is a member of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a Board Member of the Tahoe Regional Young Professionals group (YPN), and a member of SOS Outreach, an organization helping at-risk youth experience the outdoors. He also teaches life skills at a secondary high school, like successfully using a credit card. Having his mentors to look up to has inspired Aaron to guide others. 

Cheryl Williams was born in Chicago, Illinois, but currently resides in Austin, Texas. She obtained a degree in early childhood education and has over 20 years of experience working with non-profit organizations before building Fundamentals for Foster Care. She has previously been a part of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Cheryl has also worked with care communities that provide practical support for those with terminal illnesses. She has also participated in Restoration Blessings, an organization that gives practical aid for single mothers in Pflugerville, Texas. Her website is www.fundfc.org You can find her on FaceBook as well Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

In this episode of Policing Matters, host Jim Dudley chats with Pocatello Police Department Chief Roger Schei about how this mid-sized agency in the fifth largest city in Idaho is addressing defensive tactics training, police recruitment, law enforcement leadership and community engagement.  Chief Schei has a widespread training background that includes the FBI National Academy, FBI Command College, and several other leadership courses. His management certificate in high liability instruction through Idaho Police Officers Standards and Training (POST) has assisted in implementing several progressive programs for the department, including training from Rener Gracie and embracing the leadership principles of Jocko Willink's Extreme Ownership Academy.   The chief is a resolute protector of children's rights and takes pride in serving as the President of the Board of Directors for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). In 2016 he was honored to receive the Ron Timpson award from the local branch of the NAACP for human rights advocacy, volunteerism, and commitment to the improvement with the Pocatello community. 

Join Lori and Michelle Dickinson in this conversation about emotional and mental resilience. With the world coming out of a pandemic, how has Michelle helped different organizations and their employees? What were her programs that encouraged people to stay empowered and engaged? Stay tuned! Here are the things to expect in this episode: More people have been dealing with anxiety and depression because of the pandemic. Understanding first-hand that some people struggle in silence. The importance of mental health programs in the workforce. What are some ways to deal with anxiety about the pandemic? The power of self-audit. What does it mean? And more! About Michelle Dickinson: Michelle E. Dickinson is a passionate mental health advocate, a TED speaker, and a published author of a memoir entitled Breaking Into My Life. After years of playing the role of child caregiver, Michelle embarked on her own healing journey of self-discovery. Her memoir offers a rare glimpse into a young girl's experience living with—and loving—her bipolar mother. Michelle spent years working to eradicate the mental health stigma within her own workplace by elevating compassion, causing more open conversations, and leading real change in how mental illness is understood in the workplace and within the first responder community. She also knows first-hand what it feels like to struggle with a mental illness after experiencing her own depression due to challenging life events of her own. Michelle recently concluded her 19-year pharmaceutical career and she has emerged with a strong desire to positively impact the mental health landscape. Michelle is also committed to improving the lives of youth. As a past volunteer with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), The Make A Wish Foundation, and serving as big sister with the Big Brothers / Big Sisters, elevating the wellbeing of our youth matters to her. Michelle's volunteer work led her to create her own children's program called Perfect, Just the Way You Are. This program was designed to help youth better understand how to Nourish the Body and the Mind and has reached over 2,000 children and their families in NJ, NY, and PA over the past 5 years. The program recently evolved into a school-wide and student-led mental health wellness fair. Her intentions are to touch as many children's lives with this program so that children proactively develop a healthy relationship to brain health. Connect with Michelle! Website: https://www.michelleedickinson.com/ Care For Your People: https://careforyourpeople.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6Yaq3AqLUebGmfZoRdB4Q Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://www.everydayplannedgiving.com/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/positiveimpactphilanthropy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorikranczer/

We're recapping 4 episodes in preparation for both a launch of season 3 AND dour 100th episode! Here's one of our favorites from season 2 with Rita SoronenFor more than 30 years, Rita Soronen has worked on behalf of abused, neglected and vulnerable children, providing leadership for local, state and national efforts working to improve the juvenile justice and child welfare systems, while striving to assure safe and permanent homes for North America's children.Leading the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national nonprofit public charity, since 2001 and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption-Canada since 2004, Ms. Soronen works to find adoptive families for the more than 150,000 children waiting in North America's foster care systems. Under her leadership, the Foundation has significantly increased its grant-making while developing strategic initiatives that act on the urgency of the issue. In 2020, the Foundation dedicated more than $32.6 million to grants and award-winning programs, such as Wendy's Wonderful Kids, Adoption-Friendly Workplace and National Adoption Day. Additionally, through public service announcements, social media campaigns, articles, events, sponsorships and more, the Foundation is building awareness around the growing need for foster care adoption.In October 2011, independent research results were released from a five-year rigorous evaluation of the Foundation's signature and groundbreaking program, Wendy's Wonderful Kids. The research proved that children referred to the program are up to three times more likely to be adopted. Since 2005, the Wendy's Wonderful Kids program has grown from seven pilot site grants to more than 475 sites across the U.S. and Canada. This program's evidence-based model is dedicated to moving those children most at risk of aging out of foster care into permanent families. More than 10,000 children have been adopted as a direct result of Wendy's Wonderful Kids. In 2017, with the support of the Blue Meridian Partners, the Foundation launched an aggressive, multi-year business plan to take Wendy's Wonderful Kids to scale in all 50 states.Immediately prior to joining the Foundation, Ms. Soronen served as the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. During that time, she also served as the president of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio CASA/GAL Association and led the passage of specialty license plate legislation benefiting CASA programs throughout Ohio, as well as the design and implementation of model program standards assuring consistent application of effective advocacy for children involved in court proceedings at the local and state levels.Ms. Soronen is a nationally recognized child welfare advocate. She has testified before the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee on the importance of foster care adoption. A requested national speaker on the topics of children, the child welfare system and social innovation, Ms. Soronen has been a featured presenter at events for the Adoption Exchange Association, Center for Adoption Support and Education, Children's Home Society of America, National Association of County Commissioners, National CASA Association and National Council for Adoption, among others.Ms. Soronen is a founding board member and past vice president of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and is a current member of the advisory board. She also serves as a member of Barco's Nightingales Foundation's advisory board and the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children's board of trustees. Ms. Soronen is a recipient of the Angels in Adoption Award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, the National CASA Association Kappa Alpha Theta Program Director of the Year Award, the Ohio CASA/GAL Association Statewide Leadership Award and was a 2013 recipient of WSNY's 20 Outstanding Women You Should Know. She is a fellow of the Jefferson Fellowship for Executive Leadership; was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Community Leadership from Franklin University in 2016; was named a YWCA Woman of Achievement in 2017; was named a National Number One by the Columbus Foundation in 2018; and was honored with Smart Business Network's 2019 Smart 50 Program Award for Impact, Giving Back to the Community.A graduate of the University of Louisville, Ms. Soronen resides in Columbus, Ohio. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hypocrisy. Fallen leaders. Broken trust. The invasion of politics into religion. Despite all the reasons for people to reject Christian institutions, Journey NOW's roundtable panel talks about their hope for the Church as God's temple. Then, Carla Hendricks joins Suzie Lind in our interview segment to discuss her work as a volunteer advocate team leader for the non-profit Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children in Nashville. You can volunteer or learn more about CASA's work with foster children in Nashville. Got comments or questions? Text us at (615) 861-9503 and join the conversation. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/journeychurch/support

Ernesto Paredes has had a lifelong exposure and commitment to the nonprofit community in Santa Barbara and currently serves as the Executive Director of Easy Lift Transportation. Beyond his long tenure at Easy Lift, Paredes has worked with the Future Leaders of America, the Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), CALM (Child Abuse Listening Mediation), the Leadership Council, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation and Special Olympics of Santa Barbara, among others. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/goodlifeconversations/support

Christie Navarro serves as the Director of the Center for Leadership Learning (CLL) at the University of California, Davis.  She has been a part of the UC Davis community for 16 years, with 15 of those years leading the CLL.  Prior to her tenure at UC Davis, Christie served as the California state representative for the college admission testing organization ACT, as a regional outreach coordinator for UC Merced Early Academic Outreach Program, and as a case manager for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Tulare County. Christie earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Arts in Higher Educational Leadership from California State University, Sacramento. As a leadership educator, Christie infuses identity development, inclusivity, and social justice, and change into her teachings and is passionate about supporting students on their leadership journey. Christie serves as a co-chair of the National Leadership Symposium (NLS).About the 2021 National Leadership Symposium  Visit the NLS Website to learn more!About the 2021 NLS SymposiumDisruption by Design: Co-Creating Our Approach to Leadership EducationMonday, July 12 – Wednesday, July 14, 2021 - 12 pm-5 pm (EST)Registration Cost= $225.00Graduate student rate = $99 (regardless of membership or institution)Quotes From This Episode"The National Leadership Symposium is not a conference... it is a small cohort of leadership educators from all around the nation that come together for an intensive learning experience.""This is an area I'm very passionate about: bringing diverse voices to the table in our field. I think that there's been a lack of opportunity for scholars from different backgrounds and different lived experiences, especially when it's trying to advance our conversations around what leadership is.""With the pandemic and the long-needed conversation around equity, racial justice, and social justice...we can't go back to what we were doing in 2019. And this is me just humbly trying to put that idea out there for our field. How are we going to adjust, shift, and change to ensure that we are representing, hearing, and inviting all communities to the table?"Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeThe Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart  by Alicia Garza  Engaging in the Leadership Process: Identity, Capacity, and Efficacy for College Students by Kathy Guthrie, Cameron C. Beatty, and Erica R. Wiborg About The International Leadership Association (ILA)The ILA was created in 1999 to bring together professionals with a keen interest in the study, practice, and teaching of leadership. Today, ILA is the largest worldwide community committed to leadership scholarship, development, and practice. Connect with Scott AllenWebsite

Susan Kenny has a heart for serving.  For the past 18 years, she has worked in a handful of nonprofit organizations in Southern California, and currently is the Chief Advancement Officer for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Orange County.  CASA works with foster kids who are needing an advocate to help them get through the rough times in their lives.  Many of these children have experienced abuse, neglect and abandonment.  Susan and the CASA team are working daily to dramatically increase the likelihood that these kids will enter adulthood with a chance to succeed and break the cycle that put them in the foster system to begin with.   Susan is warm, funny, engaging, and committed to making the world a much kinder place.   Enjoy this conversation from Susan's heart.   To learn more about how to give to CASA OC, you can contact Susan directly at skenny@casaoc.org.  To learn more about CASA Orange County by visiting CASA OC --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/fromthehart/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/fromthehart/support

In this episode, EugCast host Adam Wendt talks with Megan Shultz of MSH Consulting and 15th Night. Megan talks about youth homelessness and her involvement in the 15th Night project.  15th Night is a youth-informed community movement to end youth homelessness by connecting existing resources and finding innovative ways to keep kids in school and off the streets.  The project uses a collective impact model to support the health and well-being of youth who are homeless or at risk for homelessness by connecting and activating resources that exist in the Eugene community. Megan has more than 20 years of management experience in the nonprofit sector. Megan’s commitment to community service and helping those in need has been a central theme in her professional life.  Megan was the Executive Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lane County for 15 years before starting her consulting firm and leading the 15th Night project coordination. 15th Night Website:  https://www.15thnight.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/15thnight/ Megan Shultz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-shultz-9437755/ About EugCast: EugCast is a volunteer-powered, cooperative chit-chat where we talk with people who may or may not live in the Eugene, Oregon area. We think they have some cool stories to share, but we’ll leave that up to you, the listener, to decide! https://eugcast.com https://www.facebook.com/EugeneOregonPodcast/EugCast (https://eugcast.com) is recorded at Trifoia (https://trifoia.com/) in Eugene Oregon!

Mike Eldred is one of North America’s most beloved tenors, thrilling audiences on Broadway, in concert halls, and on recordings, radio and television. Eldred appeared in LES MISERABLES on Broadway and across the US (Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, Schermerhorn Symphony Hall, and Aspen Theatre) as “Jean Valjean.” He was also on Broadway in the original cast of the Tony-nominated THE CIVIL WAR. He performed in the 25th anniversary national tour of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, and starred as “The Tenor” in the national concert tour of Handel’s MESSIAH ROCKS. Eldred’s starring role as “Tony” in the Nashville Symphony’s production of WEST SIDE STORY has earned international praise as “arguably the best ‘Tony’ on record”. The cast recording starring Mike Eldred on NAXOS International is recognized around the world. An artist of tremendous depth and reach, Eldred’s diversity and generosity of spirit fuel the many facets of his career. He is increasingly interested in using his performances to raise awareness and funds for causes close to him. A benefit concert in Montana raised thousands of dollars for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). In addition to numerous appearances on recordings and DVDs, Eldred has released three solo CDs that have garnered critical and popular acclaim. These include favorites from his years on Broadway, a holiday album, and a celebration of the music of John Denver, which he offers as a symphony pops concert. Eldred has performed in concert with most of North America’s finest symphony orchestras including Baltimore, Boston, Chautauqua, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, Edmonton, Fort Worth, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Long Beach, Milwaukee, Modesto, Naples, Nashville, Oklahoma City, Omaha, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver. Visit www.mikeeldred.com Follow @mikeeldredsings --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/confessionsofanactress/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/confessionsofanactress/support

Suzanne Strong is the Chief Strategic Solutions and Programs Officer at Livestrong, an organization that is helping cancer survivors and their loved ones improve their quality of lives. They believe in putting the survivor first, by creating tools and resources to help ease the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Suzanne is a graduate from Texas Christian University and started her career in the television industry, telling stories of the people and places which make Texas so unique. Over the years she started leading local non-profits in New York around the state like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and the Children’s Miracle Network. In this episode we discussed cancers that greatly affect women, the lack of innovation for mammograms and quality of life for all cancer patients. Check out Livestrong at livestrong.org Rate, Review & Subscribe!

Today's guest is Lisa Braithwaite We talk about: Being more Authentic in communication Being Present Dealing with Distracted Viewers on Zoom And much more! Visit her website at: speaktoengage.com Ditch perfection and create connection Activator | Positivity | Communication | Maximizer | Adaptability From Lisa herself: I've been speaking, teaching, training and coaching since 1992. My first six years of speaking were spent in high school classrooms, teaching teenagers about domestic violence. (I call that my "trial by fire.") Before that, I was a theater major. Before that, I was on the speech team and performed in theater, dance and singing groups. Before that, I was a baton twirler. And before that, I was just a kid who was a ham and loved to create performances for my parents and their friends. Let's just say that almost every possible embarrassing thing that could happen to me in front of an audience (or generally in public) has already happened. I've provided training for companies as diverse as Microsoft, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, Massachusetts Association of Realtors®, Louisiana Travel Association, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), USA Hockey, UC Santa Barbara, and AgWest Commodities. (I have a bit of a soft spot for nonprofit organizations, as this is my background!). Swan pants... I'll help you break out of your shell and emerge as a fully expressed version of the real you—(which is already who you are all the time when you're NOT in front of an audience). SHOW DESCRIPTION: Hosted by Sean K. Michael of www.velocity-videos.com IF you would like to be a guest on the show, contact me at sean@velocityvideosonline.com or for more information on my services please contact me. Make sure to subscribe to get all the episodes each week. Thank you! Get the AMP up your Voice on YouTube Book! Now on Amazon Get your Kindle or Paperback here=>https://bit.ly/ampupYT Cutting edge strategies to build your Communication Power on YouTube and Beyond!!!. Each week we will discover a certain "Amplifier" or Way to Expand your Voice. Topic Examples include: Improve your Humor, Comedy, Vocal Variety, Dialog, Storytelling... all the Special EFX you can add to your Voice whenever you speak in-person or on YouTube and Video!

Craig has family connections with Asia which stretch back over five generations. His great grandmother was involved with the famous Chefoo School in northern China. Craig earned his BA degree in Intercultural Studies at Biola University, California, in 1984. He completed his M.Div. in Theology from the same university in 1986. He has a Ph.D. in Sociology from Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines. His doctoral dissertation focused on the introduction of women's basketball to the Philippines by American educators, entitled The Social Construction of Bodies through Basketball during the American Occupation: 1906-1922, and was awarded the John F. Doherty, S.J. Award for Social Justice. Craig's research interests lie at the intersection of sociology of the body, gender, and sport. He currently serves as President of the International Sociological Association's Research Committee on Sociology of the Body. He started his teaching career as a High School Teacher in La Habra, California. From 1988-1992 he worked in community development in a Muslim majority area of the southern Philippines, where he learned both Tagalog and the local language, Maguindanao. From 1992 until 2004 he worked at Faith Academy, Manila, Philippines, first teaching Humanities in the High School, then as High School Principal and, for five years, as Superintendent of the entire school, guiding a team of 130 faculty staff and 700 students in K-12, one third of whom were boarding students. From 2004 until 2012 he was Chair of the Social Sciences and Humanities Departments at Crown College, St. Bonifacius, Minnesota. He returned to Asia 2012-2016 to work as Deputy Dean and High School Principal at UPH University and High School, a flagship Christian institution in Jakarta, Indonesia with some 15,000 students at High School and University. From 2016-June 2019, Dr Cook was Dean of the School of Education at Simpson University, Redding, California, where he successfully led the school through complex accreditation procedures. Dr Cook is married to Jamie Williams, J.D. They met in Indonesia, where she was teaching International Law in the Faculty of Law at Universitas Pelita Harapan. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Literature and Letters from the University of Oklahoma and her Juris Doctorate from Vermont Law School. A licensed attorney in the states of New York and Texas, she has practiced family, criminal, and commercial law. Prior to joining Woodstock, Jamie was a professor in the History and Political Science Department at Simpson University in Redding, California, where she taught Political Science and Criminology. She was also an adjunct professor teaching Restorative Justice and International Law at Le Tourneau University in Longview, Texas. In addition, she served as Program Coordinator for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a nonprofit organization that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the foster care system. In Craig's own words: “I have been an athlete and participant in vigorous physical exercise for the whole of my adult life, being a regular basketball and tennis player and a tennis coach for many years. We live at present in a mountainous area of Northern California, where we enjoy hiking on the many beautiful trails… The heart of Christian leadership is being a servant to others, as evidenced by Jesus' washing the disciples' feet and commanding us to do the same.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/future-school-leaders/message

We cover: * The magic that is made when gathering people * Most important lessons learned from death * The opportunity to celebrate Hero's And much more David is a Santa Barbara native and UCSB alum, and has been active in the non-profit community since 1991. He filled multiple roles with Pacific Pride Foundation (PPF), the Central Coast's LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS organization. At PPF, after starting a county-wide food pantry for people living with HIV/AIDS, he went on to serve as program director, communications director, and finally as the executive director for eight years. David also was the program director at Transition House for a number of years. In addition to his professional work, David volunteered for 12 years with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) working with high needs children in the foster care system. He was elected to the statewide HIV Working Group in addition to serving as a board member for a number of local non-profits. David has a personal connection to the work of Hospice of Santa Barbara through his good friend Gail Rink, who nurtured HSB into the full-fledged organization it is today while she served as its executive director. David has served as HSB's chief executive officer since 2015. During this time, he has helped facilitate HSB's higher profile, expansion of programs, and various community partnerships. In his spare time, David enjoys time in the desert, traveling, and spending time with friends. Register for the Hero's of Hospice Event: https://bit.ly/2YqTUha (https://bit.ly/2YqTUha) Catch up on past conversations as well as see the entire lineup of contributors at the "A Handful of Hope" website: https://jessebrisendine.lpages.co/a-handful-of-hope (https://jessebrisendine.lpages.co/a-handful-of-hope)

Pauline came on the podcast to talk about a hidden toll of the COVID-19 pandemic; victims of domestic abuse. During the pandemic, domestic abuse reporting has actually gone down. Sadly, this simply means that incidents are going unreported as children and women are stuck at home with their abusers. Pauline recently began volunteer work with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, advocating and working cases for foster children who have been victims of domestic abuse. She shares with us the incredible value of helping these children, as well as her personal story of escaping an abusive marriage and the journey to overcome the trauma that remains after such a relationship. You can sign up to volunteer with a local CASA/GAL program, or donate at their website https://nationalcasagal.org/.

This week’s special guest is Michelle E. Dickinson. Michelle is a passionate mental health advocate, a TED speaker, and a published author of a memoir entitled Breaking Into My Life. After years of playing the role of child caregiver, Michelle embarked on her own healing journey of self-discovery and has since gone on to spend years working to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace. She does this by elevating compassion, initiating more open conversations, and fostering impactful change regarding how mental illness is understood in the workplace. Here to explore all that and more, join me in welcoming our guest Michelle E. DickinsonMichelle E. DickinsonMental health advocate, speaker, and authorhttps://www.michelleedickinson.comhttps://breakingintomylife.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-e-dickinson-7882013Twitter: @mdickinson13About MichelleMichelle E. Dickinson is a passionate mental health advocate, a TED speaker, and a published author of a memoir entitled Breaking Into My Life. After years of playing the role of child caregiver, Michelle embarked on her own healing journey of self-discovery. Her memoir offers a rare glimpse into a young girl’s experience living with—and loving—her bipolar mother.Michelle spent years working to eradicate the mental health stigma within her own workplace by elevating compassion, causing more open conversations, and leading real change in how mental illness is understood in the workplace and within the first responder community.She also knows first-hand what it feels like to struggle with a mental illness after experiencing her own depression due to challenging life events of her own. Michelle recently concluded her 19-year pharmaceutical career and she has emerged with a strong desire to positively impact the mental health landscape.Michelle is also committed to improving the lives of youth. As a past volunteer with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), The Make A Wish Foundation, and serving as big sister with the Big Brothers / Big Sisters, elevating the wellbeing of our youth matters to her. Michelle’s volunteer work led her to create her own children’s program called Perfect, Just the Way You Are. This program was designed to help youth better understand how to Nourish the Body and the Mind and has reached over 2,000 children and their families in NJ, NY and PA over the past 5 years. The program recently evolved into a school-wide and student led mental health wellness fair. Her intentions are to touch as many children’s lives with this program so that children proactively develop a healthy relationship to brain health.===

Rachel Maurice is a Mass Shooting Survivor and a Gun Violence Prevention Advocate for several non-profit organizations such as; Moms Demand Action, Everytown Survivor Network, the Rebels Project and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). She enjoys working in peer support networks helping other survivors of gun violence, most of all those affected by high school shootings. Let's welcome her.

Today on After the Crisis, mental health advocate, author, and speaker Michelle E. Dickinson shares how she has been impacted by mental health issues in three different ways, which she refers to as the “trifecta.” Listen in as Victoria and Michelle discuss growing up as the caretaker of a parent with mental illness, living with depression, and the importance of acknowledging invisible disabilities in the workplace. Michelle E. Dickinson is a passionate mental health advocate, a TED speaker, and a published author of a memoir entitled Breaking Into My Life. After years of playing the role of child caregiver, Michelle embarked on her own healing journey of self-discovery. Her memoir offers a rare glimpse into a young girl’s experience living with—and loving—her bipolar mother. Michelle spent years working to eradicate the mental health stigma within her own workplace by elevating compassion, causing more open conversations, and leading real change in how mental illness is understood in the corporate setting. She also knows first-hand what it feels like to struggle with a mental illness after experiencing her own depression due to challenging life events of her own. Michelle recently concluded her 19-year pharmaceutical career and she has emerged with a strong desire to positively impact the mental health landscape. Michelle is also committed to improving the lives of youth. As a past volunteer with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), The Make A Wish Foundation, and serving as big sister with the Big Brothers / Big Sisters, elevating the wellbeing of our youth matters to her. Michelle’s volunteer work led her to create her own children’s program called Perfect, Just the Way You Are. This program was designed to help youth better understand how to Nourish the Body and the Mind and has reached over 2,000 children and their families in NJ, NY and PA over the past 5 years. The program recently evolved into a school-wide and student led mental health wellness fair. Her intentions are to touch as many children’s lives with this program so that children proactively develop a healthy relationship to brain health. You can connect with Michelle in the following ways: https://www.michelleedickinson.com/ https://breakingintomylife.com/ If you have experienced a crisis and are looking for a place to share your story and gain support, join the After the Crisis with Victoria community here. You can also subscribe to the podcast for future episodes.

Hometown Radio 01/21/20 4:30p: Learn about Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

Ryan hates nut butters. Paramore is breaking up (maybe.) Heathers is a musical and probably shouldn't be. Quest Bars are Play-Doh. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) allows volunteers to advocate for abused/neglected children in order to provide children with a safe & healthy environment in permanent homes.  Learn more: http://www.casaforchildren.org 

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is a national mentoring program with legal status, perfect for empty nesters who want to give back and add more meaning to their midlife experience. CASA provides a different kind of volunteer opportunity that makes a profound, positive impact for children in the foster care system. Regan Phillips, CEO of CASA Orange County, shares her expertise.

Megan Chambers is the former Production Assistant for A Healthy Curiosity Podcast, and the Office Manager at my acupuncture clinic, Life in Balance Acupuncture.   Professionally, Megan has dabbled in sound editing, video editing, print/digital editing, graphic design, website/content management, social media management, event management, development, IT support, and general administrative support, primarily in health-related environments. She's an intersectional feminist, an activist, an outdoor enthusiast, and a dog-lover. Megan also volunteers with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) as an advocate for a child in the foster care system.   Megan joins me to talk about the ways we sometimes outsource our stress and responsibility to other people, causing not only more strife in our relationships, but also more stress in the lives of people we love. It's important to stay mindful and reclaim our brains, drawing boundaries with ourselves and with others to ensure that we're only taking on what is ours.    On Today's Episode of A Healthy Curiosity: Outsourcing responsibility Using the tools available to us Drawing boundaries Raising good partners/housemates and competent humans Productive vs. unproductive energy expenditure   Want to contact Megan? She's currently job searching in the greater Portland area. You can e-mail her at meganachambers@gmail.com.    Level Up Your Life Are you ready to upgrade to the next version of you? If you are ready to receive the guidance, accountability, and support you need to up level your health, feel more energized, and truly love your body, then join me for the Eleven Weeks to Level Up Your Life program!   Visit BrodieWelch.com/Level-Up to learn more and schedule your FREE Discovery Call Today!   The next round of Level Up Your Life begins in October 2017. Spots are limited so reserve your spot today!     Share Your Healthy Curiosity Thank you for joining me on today's episode of A Healthy Curiosity, the podcast that explores what it takes to be well in today's busy world with healthcare strategies through Chinese medicine. If you enjoyed today's episode, please head over to iTunes and subscribe to the show. Share your favorite episodes with your friends on social media to help us spread the word and help more people achieve optimal health throughout their busy lives. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to tell us what you'd like to learn more about!  

Aired Sunday, 20 March 2016, 2:00 PM ETAllayah speaks with her close friend Zane Grant about his work with the children who fall between the cracks of society and are so quickly forgotten.About the Guest Zane GrantZane Grant is the Executive Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Pueblo, Colorado – a position that he has held since 2002. Zane is originally from New Mexico and moved to Colorado in 1993 to pursue his education. Zane is a graduate from the University of Southern Colorado with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a graduate from New Mexico Highlands University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Zane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado.Zane has been actively involved and working with Pueblo’s youth for over twenty years in several different capacities. Before coming to CASA, Zane worked as a child welfare caseworker for the Pueblo County Department of Social Services for several years. Zane served as an Adjunct Faculty Instructor at Pueblo Community College from 2002 to 2012. Zane also served as the Board President for Mental Health America of Pueblo from 2011 to 2012 and again in 2015.In addition to his duties with CASA, Zane is an adjunct faculty instructor for New Mexico Highlands University and is a newly appointed Board Member for the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies Social Work Examiners Board.http://goo.gl/yQQLxv

Angel was born in Anchorage in 1988. Her 11-year journey in and out of foster care led her to becoming adopted at 16, and an active member of River in the Desert Community Church(RDCC) and Facing Foster Care in Alaska (FFCA). She is now married, with 6 step-children, and works for the Fostering Futures Initiative, training volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA’s) to be mentors for foster youth aging out of the system.

Kids, and their parents, have constitutional rights, but the government has the power to protect its most vulnerable citizens. Sometimes those rights collide with that power, especially in cases of child abuse and neglect. This week, we'll examine one aspect of this important topic, the Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. We'll also talk about a great educational program called We the People, through which kids learn about their constitutional rights and responsibilities. Join us!

Tonight's special guest is Sharyn Anderson-Campbell, a survivor, activist and author "The Cry No One Heard," Campbell's story of overcoming physical and sexual abuse. In her book Sharyn reflects on the difficult growing years of her life where fear of rejection was paramount and her cry for help fell on deaf ears, especially within her family. She explains how prayer, forgiveness, and studying the Word of God delivered her from the bondage of anger, shame, and depression. A big believer in advocating for children of abuse, Sharyn supports Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). She's a Minister at Salt & Light Church of God in Fowler, Kansas. Sharyn is currently seeking a Bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry and Leadership at Liberty University Online. Sharyn has 20 years in the Loss Prevention field, 2 years as a Correctional Officer, and a year as a Police Officer, which taught her the importance of working well with others. In prior years, she worked for the Army Air Force Exchange as a Exchange Detective. With more two decades of combined experience in Security and Law Enforcement, Sharyn has contributed to the reduction of shrink for various retailers, including Wal-Mart, Kmart, and H-E-B. Her recently published book, "The Cry No One Heard," has been inspirational to survivors of abuse, as she shares her personal story of childhood abuse and how she has overcome the pain thereof. Sharyn loves people and has a passion for those who are hurting. To contact her please email: thecrynooneheard@yahoo.com

Tonight's special guest is Brittney Bray, a returning NAASCA family member from New Jersey. A survivor of child abuse who was removed from her family as a teen, she was eventually able to take advantage of the CASA SHaW facility in Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, and is now enjoying life in recovery. At the age of 15 she was taken away from her family due to her parents' drug abuse and her father's physical abuse towards her. She experienced about 8 different placements from the age of 15 till the age of 16. She was involved with many organizations, including the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). At the age of 17 she had her first child. At 18 she married the baby's father and became independent. After her son was born, she was faced with opposition from the child welfare system which did not believe she could succeed as a mother. CASA SHaW was there to support and defend her, helping her to retain custody of her baby. Brittney says, "I have tried to make the best from my difficult past. I am thankful to CASA for continuing to be supportive to me. Today I am 23, I live in my own home, I have 2 healthy and happy children, and I have been happily married for 5 years. I work, and I am planning to go back to school. My parents are in my life, and the relationship I have with them is stronger than ever now. We've all made it to the other side of a bad time."

Tonight's special guest is Patsy (Patti) Giddings from Tennessee, a survivor of severe child abuse who went through foster care after she was adopted at the age of six. She's now a die-hard child abuse advocate and author of the book "Sandy's Miracle." Due to the severe child abuse Patsy suffered as a child, she and her husband became foster parents themselves, doing this for two years before becoming volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Their passion runs deep and personal in a determination to help abused children. Patsy went on to become a voice of advocacy, giving public lectures to bring awareness of the desperate need existing in modern day America, to protect our children. This is how she spends her time when she is not writing. From California, to Michigan, and Mississippi, Ms Giddings' book, ‘Sandy's Miracle', delves into some of mankind's darkest depravities – regarding physical, mental, and sexual child abuse. She personally experienced extraordinary incidents of cruelty and rape from those in her own family, in social entities, and eventually in the clutches of her adopted family. The secrets behind the scenes of these social iniquities are revealed. But Patsy's ‘miracle' (Sandy's Miracle) came at the least expected time as God intervened into her life with salvation and rescue.

Host Kevin Willett is joined by Diane Valladares - CASA of NH. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire recruits, trains and supervises volunteers to serve as advocates for abused and neglected children in the New Hampshire court system. As part of the national nonprofit organizationNational CASA (NCASAA), we envision a world in which all children are safe, nurtured and living in permanent homes. Audio file:  casaofnh.mp3