Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Kahsay

For four years, Heather Kahsay has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), bringing her experience, perspective, and steady presence to children navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Heather has been married for 31 years and is the proud mother of eight children—two of whom are adopted—and three grandchildren. She […]
A Lifelong Love for Advocacy: Volunteer Spotlight on Karen Calhoun

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. […]
Finding Purpose Through Mentorship: Michael Decker’s CASA Journey

Michael Decker didn’t set out looking for a volunteer opportunity—but when he learned about CASA’s Mentorship program, something immediately clicked. Introduced to CASA through a connection at his church, Michael describes the program as sounding “interesting and challenging and fun and rewarding,” enough to move him to take the next step. That step led him […]
13 Years of Advocacy: Volunteer Spotlight on Kerstin Budlong

For 13 years, Kerstin Budlong has been a steady, compassionate voice for children in the Eastern Panhandle. Sworn in as a CASA in February 2011, Kerstin first joined the program after retiring — and later found herself working for a law firm that was fully supportive of her volunteer role. “I could always say, ‘I’m […]
Honoring Our Mentor Level Sponsors: Strengthening the Foundation of CASA’s Mission

CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is proud to recognize the unwavering support of our Mentor Level Sponsors, whose generosity plays a vital role in helping us serve children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Their commitment allows us to continue expanding our outreach, enhancing our volunteer programs, and supporting youth as they work toward stability […]
Honoring Our Mentor Level Sponsors: Partners in Advocacy and Hope

At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle, our mission to provide advocacy, stability, and hope for children who have experienced abuse or neglect is made possible through the unwavering support of our community partners. This month, we are honored to recognize our Mentor Level Sponsors, whose generosity strengthens every program, volunteer effort, and child we serve. […]
Honoring Our Advocate Level Sponsors: Champions for Change

At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle, we are continually inspired by the compassion and generosity of our community partners. This month, we extend our deepest gratitude to our Advocate Level Sponsors, whose steadfast support helps us continue our mission to ensure every child in the Eastern Panhandle has a voice, a champion, and a chance […]
Honoring Our Ambassador Level Sponsors: Building Brighter Futures Together

At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle, our mission to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect is made possible by the incredible generosity of our community partners. This month, we are proud to recognize and celebrate our Ambassador Level Sponsors, whose unwavering support allows us to continue providing hope, stability, and advocacy for […]
Supporting Educators, Supporting Youth: CASA Attends New Teacher Welcome Events Across the Panhandle

As the new school year approaches, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is once again showing up in classrooms—this time, to connect directly with the teachers who play such an essential role in our children’s lives. Recently, CASA delivered more than 260 welcome packets to new teachers across Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan counties. Each packet included […]
Four New CASA-EP Volunteers Sworn in at Morgan County Courthouse

Berkeley Springs, W.Va. – On June 8, 2023, four community members swore an oath to serve children and families in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Judge Debra McLaughlin of West Virginia’s 23rd Judicial Circuit swore in the newest class of court-appointed special advocates (CASA) at the Morgan County Courthouse in Berkeley Springs. Brianna Stock, of Great […]