Karen Calhoun has been part of the CASA of the Eastern Panhandle family since March 2023, serving both as a volunteer advocate and as a staff member at the CASA Visitation Center.
Karen’s path to CASA began years before she officially joined. Her desire to serve children stayed with her, waiting for the right moment.
“Years ago I heard about CASA in St. Louis and I always wanted to do it because I love kids. I got here, I retired, I got bored, so I said ‘Ah, CASA.’ So I applied and here I am.”
Since becoming a CASA volunteer, Karen has worked directly with youth who needed someone in their corner during critical moments. One experience stands out as a powerful reminder of the difference advocacy can make.
“I had a teenager who was looking pretty bleak, like maybe military school. He just didn’t want to do what he needed to do and in talking to him, he got his stuff together and he’s back with his mom and dad.”
For Karen, the impact of being a CASA isn’t about recognition or rewards—it’s about connection and presence.
“Please do it. There’s so many rewards. They’re not monetary and they’re not physical or material, but in your heart, you’re going to be so happy to be a CASA volunteer because you see the joy on the kids’ faces.”
At its core, Karen believes the simplest moments often mean the most.
“They smile when you show up.”
Karen’s dedication—as both a volunteer and a staff member—reflects the heart of CASA’s mission: showing up consistently, advocating fiercely, and making sure children feel seen, heard, and supported. We are deeply grateful for Karen and for every moment she brings compassion, stability, and care into the lives of the children and families we serve.
