Blog | CASA of the Eastern Panhandle

Honoring Social Workers: Partners in Advocacy and Prevention

March is National Social Work Month: a time to recognize the professionals who stand on the front lines of child welfare, family support, and community care. At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle, we work closely with social workers every day. Their dedication, resilience, and compassion are essential to protecting children and helping families navigate some […]

Honoring Excellence in Child Advocacy: Daja Elliott Named WV CASA Attorney of the Year

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Each year, West Virginia CASA recognizes outstanding individuals whose work embodies the highest standards of child advocacy. At the FY26 WV CASA Awards Gala—held under the theme Love Our Children—those honors were given to professionals who dedicate their careers to protecting and uplifting children across the state. This year, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle was […]

CASA of the Eastern Panhandle Announces Executive Director Michelle Sudduth’s Retirement in 2026

CASA of the Eastern Panhandle (CASA-EP) has announced that Executive Director Michelle Sudduth will retire on June 30, 2026, concluding more than seven years of transformative leadership. The announcement was made by the organization’s Board of Directors as part of a board-led succession planning process designed to ensure leadership continuity and long-term stability. Since […]

January Is Mentoring Month: Be the Difference for a Young Person in 2026

An adult mentor has a one-on-one conversation with a young student in an indoor gymnasium or sports facility, demonstrating engaged teaching or mentorship.

Every January, communities across the country recognize National Mentoring Month—a time to celebrate the life-changing impact mentors have and to invite new adults to step into that role. At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle (CASA-EP), mentoring is more than guidance or companionship; it’s a powerful, preventative force that helps young people build confidence, stability, and […]

CASA-EP Announces Board of Directors Updates for 2026

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As CASA of the Eastern Panhandle looks ahead to 2026, we are grateful for the leadership, service, and commitment of our Board of Directors—past, present, and future. Our Board plays a vital role in guiding the organization, supporting our mission, and ensuring that CASA-EP remains a strong and steady advocate for children who have experienced […]

Looking Ahead: Building Stronger Futures Together

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A new year brings reflection, renewal, and renewed commitment. As we look ahead, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle enters this next chapter grounded in purpose and driven by a clear goal: ensuring that every child in the court system has a consistent, caring advocate by their side. Over the past year, our community has come […]

2025 Year in Review: Building Safety, Stability, and Stronger Futures for Children

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As 2025 comes to a close, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is reflecting on a year defined by growth, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to children and families navigating abuse and neglect cases across our region. The needs facing children in the Eastern Panhandle continue to rise—but so does our community’s response. Serving Children When […]

Building Safety, Stability, and Stronger Futures: How CASA-EP Works to Prevent Adverse Outcomes for Youth

A diverse group of five young people pose together casually against a white background in a friendly, relaxed manner.

Every child deserves safety, stability, and the opportunity to thrive. But for hundreds of children and teens across the Eastern Panhandle, the reality of abuse, neglect, instability, and trauma can put their futures at risk long before they reach adulthood. Without consistent support, many of these youth face increased likelihood of school failure, homelessness, mental […]

CASA-EP Welcomes New Advocates to Serve Children Across the Eastern Panhandle

A formal group photo of approximately fifteen people posed together in what appears to be a courtroom or judicial chamber with wooden furnishings and professional lighting.

Martinsburg, WV – CASA of the Eastern Panhandle (CASA-EP) proudly welcomed a new class of volunteer advocates during a swearing-in ceremony held at the Berkeley County Courthouse. The Honorable Judge Delligatti administered the oath, marking the beginning of each advocate’s journey to speak up for children involved in the abuse and neglect court system. Newly […]

Avoiding Burnout: Why Mental Recharges Matter

At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle, we know that the work of advocating for children who have faced abuse or neglect is both meaningful and demanding. Supporting children, families, and caregivers often requires showing up with empathy and energy, day after day. But in order to keep giving your best, it’s essential to take care […]