CASA Delaware Live!: Recent Episodes
CASA Delaware Live!
CASA Delaware Live podcasts are designed to be short continuing education episodes that provide CASA Volunteers opportunities to expand their knowledge in child welfare and strengthen advocacy for the children we serve.
In Episode #160, we review some Dos and Don'ts of being a CASA. We review this during Pre-Service CASA Training but it never hurts to review it again. There are many things that a CASA can do but there are also many things that a CASA cannot do. So we just want to review some of them! Enjoy!
In this episode, we meet our 4 Deputy Child Advocates through the Office of the Child Advocate: Renee Duval, Jennifer Kline, Casey Pav, and Claudia DeBonte! The purpose of this podcast is to introduce these four child advocates to all the CASA Volunteers so if and when a volunteer finds themselves working with one of these fine attorneys, they'll know them better! Enjoy!
In Episode #158, we chat about the difference between common terms and ideas. We cover 6 in total. They are:
- Team vs. Triad Meeting
- Best Interest Meeting (BIM) vs. Team Decision Making Meeting (TDM)
- DFS vs. YRS vs. PBH
- Contract Agencies vs. DFS Resource Homes
- Child in Care Plan vs. Safety Plan vs. Case Plan
- Extended Jurisdiction vs. Board Extension
Enjoy! We hope the description of these topics helps make things a bit clearer when CASAs advocate for their youth.
In Episode #157, we interview Ashley Benedict who is a resource parent in Delaware. She and her husband have hosted a few youth in the past two years and Ashley shares her experience as a resource parent as well as what it has been like to work with CASA Volunteers. Enjoy!
In this episode, we chat with Trinette Redlinger-Ramsey of the Division of Family Services and JoAnn Santangelo from the Court Improvement Program to educate us on the value of Family Time. Family Time, formerly called Visitation, exists when a family is involved with the Division of Family Services either as an intact family or one where the Division has custody of the child(ren). Listen in on what these two women have to share about Family Time, why it's so important and what Family Time looks like in Delaware. Enjoy!
In Episode #155, we chat with two CASA Coordinators, Jess Hazzard and Courtney Penhollow, who share with us some thoughts and ideas on how to best prepare for upcoming court hearings, how to testify, and how to focus on appearance in order to present our essential information related to a child welfare case. Enjoy!
In this episode, Megan Hendricks from the Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families explains the FIRST Program: Family Informed Resource Support Team. This is a program within the department that helps families identify and be connected with community resources! Check them out HERE and if there are any questions, you can email them directly at DSCYF_CommunityDirectory DSCYF_CommunityDirectory@delaware.gov. Enjoy!
In Episode #153, we chat with Division Director Renee Ciconte as she explains the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services. She reviews what this Division is responsible for, how it works with it's sister agency the Division of Family Services "DFS," and how CASAs can assist with a youth who might be experiencing juvenile justice. Enjoy!
In this Episode, Mr. Mike Kopp of the Murphey School discusses their Transitional Housing program... aimed at helping teenagers successfully transition into adulthood and obtain housing. The Murphey School is a group home/congregate care facility in Dover, DE.
Learn more! https://www.murpheyschool.org/
In this Episode, we interview Dr. Maya Khalid, PhD from SOAR (Survivors of Abuse in Recovery). This is an incredible resource for our families as they provide therapeutic services to children and families who have been involved with sexual or physical abuse. Here is their website for more information: https://www.survivorsofabuse.org/
Enjoy this episode!
In Episode #150, we re-record a virtual Lunch & Learn topic on Oh My Hair! The necessity of minority hair care. We wanted to re-create it in the form of a podcast to appeal to more CASA volunteers to engage in this topic as it is essential to so many children and families we serve. Thank you to our amazing presenters who are also Office of the Child Advocate Staff: Rose Maurice, Renee Duvall, Esq., Lisa Reaves, Niki Howard, and LaTysse McKinzie-Mack. Enjoy!
In Episode #149, we chat with three CASA Coordinators: Lisa Reaves, Nakia Howard, and Jessica Hazzard. All three share their experience working with CASA volunteers and how to handle situations that might not be going the way a CASA Volunteer would prefer them to go. All three coordinators share some great nuggets of advice and experience. Enjoy!
In Episode #148, we hear from CASA Coordinator Jen Falkowski as well as two CASA Volunteers, Colleen Harbison and Bethany Menson, as they share their experience working WITH the Division of Family Services. All three share some great nuggets of information and make solid suggestions on ways to best work with DFS as we all navigate child welfare cases together. Enjoy!
In Episode #147, we chat with parent attorney Stephanie Reid, Esq. who discusses her role as a parent attorney, how she works with her clients, who she partners with to help her clients, and she makes some suggestions on how CASAs can best support parents when working reunification cases. Enjoy!
In Episode #145, we interview CASA State Director Megan Caudell as she walks us through some statistics for the first 11 months of the year. Then, Lauren Brueckner follows up with a glance at the 2026 CASA Training Calendar. Enjoy!
In Episode #144, we cover some key reminders for CASAs including some Dos and Don'ts and how best to balance what our clients tell us vs. what's actually true. So, we want to listen and absorb information but not necessarily act on it without investigating the other side as well. Enjoy!
In Episode #143, we interview CASA Leann Moore who has extensive experience around Conflict Resolution. She's at the University of Delaware and during this podcast interview, she shares some helpful information to help us as CASA volunteers when faced with conflict (which WILL happen!). Enjoy!
In this episode, we interview Meg Garey, Executive Director of A Better Chance for our Children where she shares with us some helpful information on how kids express grief and loss. She also gives some suggestions on how a CASA can best assist their youth who might be struggling expressing themselves when the heavy feelings of grief and loss settle in. Enjoy this episode!
In this episode, I chat with Bobbi Barends who is not only a CASA volunteer but also the VP/Campus Director and Chief Operating Officer at Del Tech in Georgetown! During our chat, she explains several scholarship opportunities that exist at Del Tech which is a statewide campus. Maybe some of these educational financial opportunities might benefit a youth you're working with! Enjoy!
In this episode, we chat with child attorney Jennifer Kline, Esq. and listen as she discusses the importance of sibling connections as well as ways that a CASA can help ensure these connections stay intact. Enjoy!
In this episode, Child Attorney Renee Duval, Esq. walks us through the appeal process for the Termination of Parental Rights. She also explains what a CASA's role is, how they can assist during the case, and what to expect. Enjoy!
In this episode, we speak to 3 experienced CASA volunteers and listen as they share their thoughts and strategies in communicating with youth who are experiencing cognitive or developmental delays. Enjoy!
In Episode #137, we chat with staff attorney Stefanie Ramirez who works with the Disability Rights Program. She has tremendous knowledge when it comes to working with students with disabilities and how discipline impacts their education. If anyone has additional questions for Stefanie, she can be reached by email at sramirez@declasi.org
Enjoy!
In Episode #136, we interview Kelly Hatton who is a therapist working with the TRY Program. TRY stands for Trauma Response for Youth. This service is contracted through the Division of Prevention of Behavioral Health and offers prevent, intervention, and treatment services to families who have experienced a traumatic event. Kelly also runs a counseling service called A Seed of Hope which can be found here: https://www.aseedofhopecounselingcenter.com/
In Episode #135, we explore two housing options for DFS families in New Castle County: Gaudenzia and Bayard House. Dionne Cosby chats with us about Gaudenzia House and Cheryl Sanderlin chats about Bayard House. Both housing options are supported through the state and work closely with the Division of Family Services. They use a trauma informed approach and offer transitional services to help bridge the housing gap.
If anyone has questions about these two programs, you can use the following contacts:
- Dionne Cosby @ Gaudenzia: dcosby@caudenzia.org
- Cheryl Sanderlin @ Bayard House: csanderlin@ccwilm.org
In this episode, we interview Independent Living Program Manager Tamara Myles through the Division of Family Services. Tamara educates us on the WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, and WHY of a STEPS (Stairways To Encourage Pathways to Success) Meeting. Enjoy!
In Episode #133, we review some of the most commonly used acronyms including DSCYF, DFS, PBH, YRS, IL, BIM, TDM, APPLA, TPR, ESP and more! Happy listening!
In Episode #132, we focus on the CASA Court Report which is presented to the CASA Coordinator and Child Attorney in order to prepare for upcoming court hearings. Each report is a necessary part to the court process so it needs to be turned in by the CASA two weeks prior to any upcoming court hearing. Only the Triad members will see the court report. Enjoy!
In this episode, we interview 4 team members of Wrap Around Delaware, which provides comprehensive assistance to families in need. During this interview, we chat with Jackie, Shannon, Michelle and Haydee and listen as they describe their roles within the organization that includes DFS, YRS, PBH and Foster Home Recruitment. Enjoy!
To learn more about Wrap Around Delaware, visit https://wraparoundmd.com/delaware-dfs/
In Episode #130, we chat with Executive Director Claudine Wiant of Prevent Child Abuse Delaware, affectionately known as "PCAD." April is Child Abuse Prevention Month so the purpose of this podcast is to learn about PCAD, what programs they offer and provide a general overview for things CASAs should know about how PCAD takes action to Prevent Child Abuse!
Questions? Check out their website: https://www.pcadelaware.org/
Enjoy!
In Episode #129, we interview 4 CASAs who have been with their assigned children for over five years! Some of them closer to 10 years! This means that these CASA volunteers have had the opportunity to develop deep relationships with these youth and witness their changes over time. The focus of this podcast is to explore ways in which a CASA's advocacy changes over such a long period of time. Enjoy!
In Episode #128, we host our third in a four-part series on Working with Children. For the thirteen to seventeen year-olds, we chat with four CASA Volunteers: Kathy, Hareena, Sarah and Dave and listen as they share their experience working with children in this age group. Enjoy!
This is a special edition! It's a short Public Service announcement focused on Child Abuse Prevention Month which is in April. Since we are coming up on activities, I wanted to get this information out sooner rather than later.
Every year, young children in Delaware are rushed to the emergency room after being exposed to or ingesting medications and substances. Curiosity is part of being a child, but it can turn dangerous when medications are left within reach. It’s easy to overlook how appealing those brightly colored pills or gummies might look to little ones. But they’re not candy—and just one taste can change a life forever. Keep your drugs stored in a locked container, out of sight, and out of reach. Learn more at outofreachde.com.
If you have questions about any activities, you can email Carley Davis at carley.davis@delaware.gov
Enjoy! Hope you can attend some events!
In Episode #127, we host our second in a four-part series on Working with Children. For the six to twelve-year-olds, we chat with four CASA Volunteers: Martha, Mary, Velma and Lisa and listen as they share their experience working with children in this age group. Enjoy!
In Episode #126, we start our first in a four-part series on Working with Children. For the birth to five-year-olds, we chat with four CASA Volunteers: Sheila, Paula, Elvida, and Colleen and listen as they share their experience working with children in this age group. Enjoy!
In Episode #125, we discuss Family Search and Engagement. We cover what this is, how CASAs can take action, and why it's vital to any case involving dependency and neglect. We hope you enjoy!
In this episode, we chat with CASA Coordinator Jessica Hazzard and Deputy Child Attorney Elizabeth Fillingame as they discuss the role of the Triad when working with a youth experiencing Dual Status. Please refer to Podcast #66 to learn more about Dual Status Youth, but use this podcast to understand the role of each triad member. Enjoy!
In this episode, Jillisa Johnson chats with us about the MOMobile Program, which focuses on serving incarcerated pregnant and parenting women. This program is offered at the Hazel D. Plan and Delores Baylor facilities. This program also offers parenting classes, mental health and substance abuse supports to their clients.
If you have questions about the program, feel free to contact Jillisa Johnson at Jillisa Johnson jjohnson1@maternitycarecoalition.org
In Episode #122, we chat with CASA Delaware Director Megan Caudell as she walks us through our 2024 numbers. These numbers review CASA stats, child stats, and some other interesting facts. I then follow up with our 2025 CASA Training Calendar. Enjoy!
In Episode #121, I chat with three experienced CASA Volunteers (Marin, Jen and Brittany) as they share their thoughts on serving as a CASA Volunteer. Enjoy!
In Episode #120, we chat with CASA Bebe Reines who spent her career working in the Substance Abuse Disorder field. She shares some helpful information about substance abuse disorder as well as some resources and actions CASA can take in order to aide in awareness of substance abuse.
Here are some resources:
https://www.samhsa.gov/
https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/
https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dsamh/
In Episode #119, we interview Melanie Stancell of Children and Families First. She is responsible for offering two parenting classes that many of our CASA families engage with. The two programs are Strengthening Families and Nurturing Parenting. Ms. Stancell explains these two programs in great detail so hopefully this knowledge will help CASA volunteers understand what these programs include.
https://www.cffde.org/programs
Enjoy!
In Episode #118, we chat with Child Attorney Renee Duvall, Esq. She shares her thoughts with us on ways that we can chat with our CASA youth about the implications of making school threats. These actions are sadly occurring on a more frequent basis and Renee identified a need to have these discussions with all youth, especially our CASA youth, so that they understand what might happen should they, or others, make threats. Worse yet, what happens if they carry out any threats. We hope you find this podcast helpful!
In Episdide #117, we chat with Faith Martin from Child Inc. Faith explains her role and what services Child Inc. offers to victims of Domestic Abuse. While Faith is located in Sussex County, these services exist statewide. Enjoy!
In Episode #116, we listen to Cherise Blackwell's story. She has direct experience as a mother whose children were removed from her care. She now serves as a Parent Peer Navigator to help parents reunify with their children. Enjoy!
In Episode #115, we chat with Celeste Bishop and Cindy Knapp from A Better Chance for our Children, which is an adoption agency in Delaware. Celeste and Cindy discuss post-permanency services that include a support group, "Rec-N-Respite," continued training and many other services which are offered to families who have adopted or who have legal permanent guardianship of a child.
Any CASA working with an adoptive family going through this experience, please encourage them to connect with the adoption agency and stay connected even after the adoption has been legally completed.
Any questions? Feel free to reach out to Cynthia Knapp (cknapp@abcfoc.org) or Celeste Bishop cbishop@abcfoc.org)
Also, Post-Permanency Information can be found here: https://abcfoc.org/post-adoption-support/
In Episode #114, we chat with DFS Director Trenee Parker and WrapAround Delaware Foster Parent Recruitment Director Haydee Rodriguez about foster parent recruitment and retention. Together, we discuss how a foster parent is recruited, what their training looks like and how a CASA can best work with a foster parent.
If any CASA knows someone who is interested in becoming a foster parent, please have them contact Haydee directly: hrodriguez@wraparoundde.com
Also mentioned in our chat is funding that can be offered to youth in care. If your child is in Kent or New Castle Counties, please ask your Coordinator to use Office of the Child Advocate Funds. If your child has a Sussex County Judge, please consider taking advantage of the Friends of Sussex CASA Programs:
- Enrichment Program: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbf7XYCYXTIgc-aBZf2pAnP-4ZpLPzLEpO0mhxJPK4QiOYrA/viewform
- Birthday Program: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScxzKnw06IPyv3tju-sAidHkVIlgbOY4jXI88TMRMHEQGSxqQ/viewform
Enjoy!
In Episode #113, I chat with myself about how to interview different partners from DFS social workers to biological parents, from children to therapists. Asking questions can be difficult, so this is a guide in suggested questions to ask. Remember, there is NO right way to advocate for a child. The only error is inaction. So keep those questions coming!
In Episode #112, we chat with LaTysse, Jen, Jessica, and Clark as they share their experiences as a CASA Coordinator. They share some of their techniques to support their CASA Volunteers as well as some actions they take to be supportive on difficult cases. Happy listening!
In Episode #111, we chat with Mike McHugh from Children and Families First as well as Lauren Reid from the Division of Family Services. Both discuss the Wendy's Wonderful Kids program that focuses on using a child's connections to secure adoptive or permanent resources. This is a great program that has just been brought to Delaware! Enjoy!
Any questions about the program, please contact Lauren Reid at lauren.reid@delaware.gov
In Episode #111, we chat with Mike McHugh from Children and Families First as well as Lauren Reid from the Division of Family Services. Both discuss the Wendy's Wonderful Kids program that focuses on using a child's connections to secure adoptive or permanent resources. This is a great program that has just been brought to Delaware! Enjoy!
Any questions about the program, please contact Lauren Reid at lauren.reid@delaware.gov
In Episode #110, we interview 3 CASA volunteers who have experience working with difficult partners. These partners include biological relatives and DFS workers. The purpose of this podcast is not to "bash" anyone, simply highlight the action that the CASA Volunteers took to keep the case moving forward. Enjoy!
In Episode #109, we interview Lezley Sexton and Danielle Gumbs who run the Transition Age Youth Program. This "TAY" program is a case-management program that connects youth ages 16 to 24 years old to community resources surrounding substance abuse and/or mental health. They are a resource to some of our kids and families.
Do you think you can make a referral? Email them at DSAMH_TAY@delaware.gov
In Episode #108, we chat with Nick Beard and Tisha Jackson who are both zealous advocates for Domestic Violence survivors. They chat with us specifically about the Community Health Project which connects survivors to community resources such as housing, employment, and mental health services. Enjoy!
Information on referrals can be found here: https://dcadv.org/what-we-do/advocacy-policy-work/health/community-health-worker-collaborative-project.html
In Episode #107, we chat with Kathie Herel who runs the Parent Information Center ("PIC") specifically the Educational Surrogate Parent (ESP) Program. She has a wealth of knowledge in the field of special education so we are taking the opportunity to ask her questions that CASAs have sent in about special education, the ESP Program, and all sorts of other things!
Want more info? Check out the Parent Information Center
Interested in becoming an educational advocate? Check out the Educational Surrogate Parent Program
Have any other question? Feel free to email Kathie at kherel@picofdel.org
In Episode #106, I provide some information on Independent Living Services. While we have a few podcasts on IL Services, I had a guest cancellation so I had to wing it with a last-minute plan. So, let's chat about Independent Living Services! Enjoy!
In Episode #105, we hear from Clark Huffman (CASA Coordinator), Christine Jones-Bey Brown (Independent Living Provider Case Manager) and Amander Lee (Independent Living Provider Worker). They explain the purpose of a STEPS meeting including when it's held, who attends, and the hopeful outcomes. Happy Listening!
In Episode #104, we chat with Department of Justice attorney Kristina Bensley and Chief of Legal Services at the Office of the Child Advocate Kelly Ensslin. Both ladies discuss the sex offender registry with us especially as it pertains to potential parents & caregivers in our DFS cases. Enjoy!
Here are a couple of links that Kristina provides to us:
https://www.nsopw.gov/
https://sexoffender.dsp.delaware.gov/
In Episode #103, we chat with Cheryl Crowe who spends her professional career in the animal abuse arena while also serving as a CASA Volunteer. In our chat today, Cheryl discusses the correlation between animal and child abuse. She shares some resources with us as well. Enjoy!
https://nationallinkcoalition.org/
https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/nose-tail
https://home.army.mil/lewis-mcchord/application/files/8716/7285/9577/DPFR-FAP-PetBrochure-2023-fv01042023.pdf
https://dvcc.delaware.gov/
In Episode #102, we chat with Detective Chris Phillips of the New Castle County Police Department along with Jennifer McCann of Victim's Services. Detective Phillips and Jennifer share with us how they work cases that involve child death and/or serious abuse, how they partner with other team members such as the Child Advocacy Center and the Department of Justice, and then what types of resources are available for victims. Enjoy!
Here are a few of the organizations that Jennifer mentions...
Child Inc.
DVCC
CLASI
In Episode #101, we chat with Cassandra McCay of Connecting Generations. She tells us about this program that might be an asset to our youth in care. As a CASA, we are always looking for support services for our youth, so perhaps consider utilizing this program.
If you have additional questions, feel free to contact Cassandra via email at cmckay@connecting-generations.org. If you'd like to refer your youth to their services, contact Yasmin Chavez at ychavez@connecting-generations.org, 302-656-2122 ext 0020
Learn more about Connecting Generations here: https://www.connecting-generations.org/
In Episode #100, we chat with OCA Data Director Jennifer Sieminski. She managed the Apricot portal and a small staff to run reports, compare data, and provide information and support to several child welfare agencies. Let's learn why Data is so important!
In Episode #99, we chat with State Director Melissa Palokas! Missy walks us through some stats revolving around Delaware's children as well as CASA Volunteers. Lauren also provides a brief summary of 2024 training opportunities. Enjoy!
In Episode #98, we chat with four CASA volunteers as they share their experience focusing on the positive during a case that might not be going so positively at times. These four share some of the actions they took to seek permanency for their CASA child including dedicated communication even when it wasn't reciprocated. Maybe some of their suggestions might be helpful to you as you advocate for a youth. Enjoy!
In Episode #97, we chat with Bob Blouin from Clothing Our Kids. Clothing Our Kids is a non-profit organization serving Sussex County that clothe children in need. Bob explains to us how children can access their services and what a CASA Volunteer should know about Clothing Our Kids to help direct their child to access this service. Enjoy
Here is their website: https://www.clothingourkids.org/
In Episode #96, we chat with....well, myself! CASA Training Director Lauren Brueckner takes time to explain the elements of a CASA Court Report, How to Calculate Monthly Hours, How to Use Apricot, and What Are The Non-Negotiables of Being a CASA. Enjoy!
In Episode #95, we chat with Deputy Child Attorney Molly Shaw as she walks us through the legislative process and highlights what bills were passed (and are pending) relating to child welfare. Some of these bills include updates to mandatory reporting as well as the pilot creation of the Driver's License and Insurance program. Enjoy!
How a Bill Becomes a Law
In Episode #94, we chat with CASA Coordinators LaTysse McKinzie-Mack and Tahira Ayyaz to focus on Self-Care... why is self care necessary, what are some ways to practice self-care and what resources exist for CASA volunteers experiencing an emotional challenge with a case. Enjoy!
In Episode #93, we interview Mandy Timmons who works directly with families during the reunification process. She becomes appointed to a parent along side of a parent attorney, allow the two of them to advocate and support the parent during reunification. Mandy is specifically serving Sussex County but she does have a counterpart in New Castle County. Kent County will hopefully receive this service as well. Enjoy!
In Episode #92, we speak with Kathie Herel from the Parent Information Center. She administers the Educational Surrogate Parent program. A Surrogate Parent is a volunteer who assumes the parental rights of a child in foster care to advocate on their behalf for Early Intervention or Special Education services. In this episode, we learn about special education as well as what goes into an IEP (Individualized Education Program) and how a CASA can best advocate for a youth who may be eligible to receive, or be receiving, special education services.
Parent Information Center: https://picofdel.org/
Kathie can be reached directly at kherel@picofdel.org
In Episode #91, we chat with current CASA Coordinators Jess Hazzard and Lisa Reaves. They bring a unique perspective to the CASA Program since they came to us from the New Behavioral Network as Family Interventionists themselves! They share their experience working with CASAs and provide some best practices on how to work with "FIs" during a reunification case. Enjoy!
In Episode #90, we focus on how a CASA volunteer can successfully take over a case from another CASA volunteer. Every now and then, a CASA must leave the program or the case for a reason beyond their control. It happens, so when it does, we want to efficiently be able to appoint a new CASA to take their place. These three CASA Volunteers (Karen, Jessica and Gary) share their experiences and some tips & tricks of when they took over a case. Enjoy!
In Episode #89, we chat with Adrienne Owen from the Office of the Child Advocate. She discusses how our office, especially the Multi Disciplinary Team (MDT) operates to identify and support victims. Enjoy!
In Episode #88, we discuss the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, called "NCMEC" with Melissa Snow. Melissa shares with us why children go missing, what the Center does to find these children and what happens upon re-entry. She mentions two great online resources during her chat, so here they are!
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: https://www.missingkids.org/
Netsmartz: https://www.missingkids.org/netsmartz/home
Enjoy!
In episode #87, we speak with Stacey Simon of CORAS, which used to be Connections, CSP. CORAS focuses on providing substance abuse and mental health treatment to the community. As CASA Volunteers, you may encounter families who are seeking, or in need of seeking, substance abuse or mental health treatment. CORAS has been able to provide both services to clients across Delaware. Stacey shares some information on these services as well as ideas on how CASA volunteers can best work with CORAS to obtain records and learn about progress of clients we might be working with.
You can learn more about CORAS at their website: https://coraswellness.org/
In Episode #86, we chat with Deputy Treasurer Jordan Seemans who educates us on the Aspire 529 program, a program specifically designed for youth experiencing foster care to take advantage of in order to financially plan for their educational future. This is a great program that our youth can take advantage of and Jordan teaches us what CASAs can do to support furthering youth's education.
Information on the Aspire 529 program can be found here: https://treasurer.delaware.gov/aspire529/
If anyone has questions, they can email: Treasury_Aspire529@delaware.gov for further information.
In Episode #85, we chat with Judge Natalie Haskins of New Castle County Family Court. She walks us through Burdens of Proof, two major federal laws that affect our dependency/neglect cases and include legal lingo, and finally she shares some advice about advocating for Best Interest.
You can learn about the Best Interest factors here:
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://courts.delaware.gov/forms/download.aspx?id=61378
Enjoy this discussion!
In Episode #84, CASA Carmine Alessandro shares his knowledge and experience with us about financial management. Carmine shares some tips that a CASA can use when speaking to a youth about financial management including determining what are WANTS versus NEEDS and the idea of saving for a goal. He also shares that CASA Volunteers can work with youth to outline their current income and expenses to ensure that their income can cover their expenses. Enjoy!
In Episode #83, we hear from 3 CASA Volunteers and one CASA Coordinator as they share their experience working with youth who have turned 18 and are now in Extended Jurisdiction. We speak with CASAs Kathie Koster, Shelli Smith and Sarah Fulton as well as CASA Coordinator Nakia Howard who all share their thoughts on some barriers that their youth experienced. They also share how their advocacy changed once their youth entered into adulthood. They share some struggles but also some triumphs that they experienced. Finally, these 4 ladies share some great words of wisdom on how best to advocate for any young adult who is in Extended Jurisdiction. Enjoy!
In Episode #82, we interview child attorney Bonnie Gladu. She mostly serves Kent County cases working her corner of the CASA Triad. Bonnie sheds some light on how she uses her previous career as a therapist to best advocate for children experiencing foster care. Bonnie also provides some insight into how she feels CASA volunteers can best support the Child Attorney in their case as well as some tip for preparing for court hearings. Enjoy!
In Episode #81, we speak with retired Family Court Judge Aida Waserstein. She has spent roughly 45 years in family law, first as a practioner and her final 21 years were spent on the bench. She has an incredible life story involving experience in foster care herself. Judge Waserstein is also an author of My Name is Aida and several other children's books. She shares her insight with us on how the Family Court has changed over the years as well as gives advice to CASA Volunteers on getting to know their CASA child's culture in order to relate to them. Enjoy!
In Episode #80, we chat with Dr. Lynn Moyer who discusses child specific recruitment, known as CSR. As a child-specific recruiter, Lynn works with prospective adoptive families for children who are unable to reunite with their parents. In this podcast, she discusses how she works with families through a commitment lens to ensure the identified family is a good fit for the child. She discusses why specific language is important to use and how such words affect child going through this process. She also explains what is entailed in the joining of a child with a family and what CASA volunteers should know about this process. Enjoy!
In Episode #79, Claudine Wiant of the Beau Biden Foundation describes what Human Trafficking is, who are the potential victims, and how to prevent human trafficking. She explains the history of how it became illegal as well as what CASA volunteers should be aware of when working with a youth experiencing foster care, as they are a target population. Here are some resources she shared with us:
1-888-373-7888 is the National Human Trafficking Hotline. You can also text 233733.
Domestic Violence: National Domestic Violence Hotline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Sexual Abuse: Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Suicide: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Dating Violence: National Dating Abuse Helpline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-866-331-9474
Runaway and Homeless Youth: National Runaway Safeline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929)
Missing Children and Child Pornography: National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678)
Wilmington University Human Trafficking Symposium: https://www.wilmu.edu/humantraffickingsymposium/
Domestic Violence: National Domestic Violence Hotline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Sexual Abuse: Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Suicide: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Dating Violence: National Dating Abuse Helpline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-866-331-9474
Runaway and Homeless Youth: National Runaway Safeline, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929)
Missing Children and Child Pornography: National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, 24 hour Hotline: 1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678)
Wilmington University Human Trafficking Symposium: https://www.wilmu.edu/humantraffickingsymposium/
In Episode #78, we chat with Nick Beard who works in the field of Domestic Violence. Nick is also a CASA volunteer so she is able to weave her experience as both a CASA and a DV advocate. She shares some information on how domestic violence effects children and their families. She tells about some key terms we should use and some that we should avoid. She also discusses some resources that can be found here in Delaware. One such resource is the Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
This is a helpful website: https://dcadv.org/
Enjoy!
In Episode #77, we chat with social worker and CASA Amina Saunders who shares with us some insight on best advocacy strategies for representing minority youth. In Delaware, we have an unequal demographic when it comes to CASAs racial background and the children we represent. Amina shares some nationwide statistics about minority youth in care but also shares some actions that CASAs can take to best advocate for these youth. She also mentions that understanding the Adverse Childhood Experiences ("ACE" Study) may be very helpful.
Dr. Nadine Burke-Harris describes the ACE Study in this very helpful video.
In Episode #76, we split it into two sections. The first section is an interview with CASA State Director Melissa Palokas. Missy shares with us some stats about 2022 in regards to child representation as well as CASA statistics. She also shares some priorities for 2023 which includes the need for more CASAs! If you know of anyone interested, please send them our way!
The second part of the podcast is CASA Training Director Lauren Brueckner discussing the 2023 Training Plan. Enjoy!
In Episode #75, we chat with Stacy Shamburger of the Life Lines Program, which is part of the West End Neighborhood house. Stacy explains the Life Lines program and what services are provided to the child we advocate for. Stacy describes who qualifies and what information about the program might be helpful for CASAs to know. Enjoy!
In Episode #74, we chat with three CASA Volunteers about how the Get Started! Mike Deloy and Sarah Fulton have both been CASA Volunteers for about 1.5 years, while Lynne Nickel has been a CASA for about 5 years. All three share their thoughts on how they get started on a case, who they interview first, and what actions they take to identify potential permanency options. This is a great podcast for any CASA taking their first case or who wants to get an idea of how others begin their CASA case journey. Enjoy!
In Episode #73, we chat with New Castle County Family Court Judge Michael Arrington, Kent County Family Court Judge Mardi Pyott, and Sussex County Family Court Judge Paula Ryan. All three judges share their thoughts on the importance of involving youth in court. They also discuss ways that youth can participate, what barriers exist to their participation, and ways to overcome those barriers. The three judges also discuss ways that a CASA Volunteer can support a youth while participating in court as well as work out some logistics with the Triad team on how the youth will participate. Enjoy!
In Episode #72, we interview Tracy Whitehouse and Moira Dillon of the Division of Family Services to explore Levels of Care, known as LOC. Both Tracy and Moira discuss what Levels of Care are used for and how they impact a child experiencing foster care. This podcast is super helpful for any CASA to listen to as it explains how a child's needs are determined and how that affects payments for child care. Enjoy!
In Episode #71, we chat with CASA Rob Teti and his CASA youth, Tymir. Tymir came into care and received Rob as his CASA. Rob worked with Tymir for several weeks and immediately identified some of Tymir's needs and interests. Turns out, Tymir loves animals and guess who is a Veterinarian? You guessed it....Rob! They immediately clicked over animals and Rob supported Tymir as he was reunified with ihis mother. However, their relationship continued long past Rob's appointment as Tymir's CASA. Today, Tymir is a successfully reunified 16-year-old who visits with Rob at his farm weekly. Rob is engaged in supporting Tymir graduate high school, seek employment, and eventually go on to veterinarian school. Good luck Tymir!
In Episode #70, we interview Jocelyn Langrehr from the Prevention of Behavioral Health department. She explains what a CAS evaluation is, who makes referrals, what a psychologist considers when conducting a CAS evaluation, and what is the purpose of a CAS evaluation. Often times, a CASA volunteer finds themselves with a youth who is being referred for a CAS evaluation. It might be for a variety of reasons including a competency reason or perhaps a mental health diagnosis reason. Either way, a CAS Evaluation can be very helpful when identify and addressing a need of a youth. Enjoy!
In Episode #69, we interview three CASA Volunteers who share their strategies in how they broke down the barriers with their assigned youth. Rob shared that he created Ground Rules:
- Be honest
- Stay open-minded
- No judgement
He feels that it is very helpful to lay out some ground rules with his assigned youth so that they each know there the other is coming from. Mary shared her experience with Committing to the Follow Through in that she does what she tells her kids she's going to do and if she tells them she's coming to visit, she ensures that she keeps that appointment. Kim shared that she let's her youth Establish Their Mode of Contact in that it helps the youth to lead the method and mode of conversation. So take a listen and see if any of these suggestions will work in your case!
In Episode #68, CASA Volunteers play a Jeopardy-Style game show to learn more about specific Delaware acronyms! In child welfare, there are all too many acronyms and it helps to understand what most of them are as well as what they actually do. Enjoy!
In Episode #67, we speak with Matt Coyle of the American Lung Association. He describes two teen programs with us and how the American Lung Association collaborates with schools to promote education centered around smoking. He describes the difference between cigarettes and e-cigarettes and provides us with some information on how to support our teen clients who might find themselves interested in starting to smoke, currently smoking, or wanting to quit.
Feel free to reach out to Matt directly at Matt.Coyle@lung.org. Enjoy!
In Episode #66, we interview Aiyana Lucas from Wrap Around Delaware. She is a facilitator of Dual Status Youth Meetings, known as DSYMs. These meetings are focused on bringing the team together for youth who are involved in both DFS (child welfare) and YRS (juvenile justice) in helping to streamline efforts provided by both agencies. Aiyana chats with us about how those meetings are held, who attends, and what the purposes is. She emphasizes that youth should be involved if possible. As a CASA, you are invited to attend as well. If your youth is a Dual Status Youth, please ensure to reach out to DFS and YRS to ensure you are invited to a DSYM! Enjoy this episode!
Learn about Wrap Around Delaware: https://wraparoundmd.com/delaware-dfs/
In Episode #65, we interview Family Court Judge Theresa Hayes! She was appointed to the bench in November, 2021 and has spent decades working in family law in private practice. During our chat, she discusses what inspired her to get into family law and how her transition has been from private practice to joining the bench. She has worked with CASA Volunteers for decades and describes what she feels is most valuable from CASA Volunteers. Enjoy our chat with Judge Hayes!
In Episode #64, we chat with Aaron Prince of the Bayard House, a transitional housing option for pregnant and parenting teens. The Bayard House is part of Catholic Charities and provides residents with support in attaining child care, education, and employment. Residence receive their own room and resources to care for newborns and toddlers. The clients work with a case manager to connect with the community and receive specific resources. If a CASA has a youth or young adult who might benefit from their services, reach out to the Triad, the DFS worker, and/or the Bayard House case manager for a possible meeting.
You can learn more about the Bayard House by visiting https://www.ccwilm.org/bayard-house/
Enjoy!
In Episode #63 we chat with Dr. Angie Hattery about Domestic Violence. Angela J. Hattery is Professor of Women & Gender Studies and Co-Director of the Center for the Study & Prevention of Gender-Based Violence at the University of Delaware. She is the author of 11 books, including her most recent book, Gender, Power and Violence: Responding to Intimate Partner Violence in Society Today (2019), which followed on the heels of Policing Black Bodies: How Black Lives are Surveilled and How to Work for Change (2018) as well as dozens of book chapters and peer-reviewed articles. Her forthcoming book, Way Down in the Hole: Race, Intimacy and the Reproduction of Racial Ideologies in Solitary Confinement, explores the ways in which racial antagonisms are exacerbated by the particular structures of solitary confinement. Dr. Hattery serves as a consultant to agencies that seek to combat violence against women, and she regularly appears as an expert on these issues with major U.S. TV and radio news media. She teaches courses on race and gender inequality, families, and methods.
During our chat, Dr. Hattery focuses on gender-based violence, intimate partner violence and how this violence effects children. Enjoy!
In Episode #62, we chat with Chief of Legal Services, attorney Kelly Ensslin to discuss the different permanency options available to children experiencing foster care. In Delaware, we have four (4) main permanency options:
- Reunification
- Guardianship
- Permanent Guardianship
- TPR/Adoption
Kelly discusses these in detail and includes who can apply for each, what legal criteria exists, what benefits might be present, and also gives an example of when each permanency option is optimal. We also briefly discuss APPLA (Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement) which is basically long-term foster care, but we have another Podcast based on that topic so we only briefly touch on APPLA in this episode.
We do have two other videos that might be helpful when understanding Termination of Parental Rights for Purposes of Adoption:
- Adoption A-Z: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MtV7qILg8M&t=3s
- Honoring the Birth Family: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77FhAuOYcIw&t=6s
Please enjoy!
In this episode Office of the Child Advocate staff member Megan Bittinger discusses ways CASA volunteers can support the LGBTQ+ Community. She discusses the use of pronouns, ways in which we can be sensitive and supportive as well as describes some terms that might be helpful.
Before starting this podcast, please consult two resources that might helpful as Megan consults both during her discussion.
- Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/
- Flying Gender Unicorn: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/viewer.html?pdfurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.transhealthsa.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F05%2FThe-Gender-Unicorn.pdf&clen=581818&chunk=true
Also, here are some other resources that you might find helpful:
- The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
- PRIDE Delaware: http://www.delawarepride.org/
- PFLAG Delaware: https://www.pflagwilmde.org/
- Helping Kids: https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/all-children-all-families-caring-for-lgbtq-children-youth
Enjoy!!
In Episode #60, we chat with Adrienne Owen, the Multidisciplinary Discipline Team Trainer. She has decades experience in law enforcement and brings with her a unique perspective to child abuse and child welfare. Adrienne chats with us about what is Mandatory Reporting, who is a Mandatory Reporter, and what to do when YOU make a DFS Child Abuse Hotline Report. Please take a moment and put the Report line in your phone: 1-800-292-9582 and visit https://kids.delaware.gov/family-services/child-abuse-and-neglect-reporting/ to make an online report (non-emergency)
In Episode #59, we interview three CASAs with experience in advocating for babies. We have Sarah Vernon from New Castle County, Brenda Berry from Kent County and Terry Shuchart from Sussex County. All three of these ladies have advocated for a baby, meaning they are less than 3 months old. In this episode, Sarah, Brenda, and Terry focus on how their advocacy differs from that of an older child especially a teenager. They share some helpful tips and tricks as well. These include:
- Making a Family Tree from the beginning of the case to identify potential resources and placements
- Attending a Medical Well Check to learn how the baby is developing from the doctor's perspective
- Creating a Text Chain between foster parents, DFS Worker and CASA to stay in touch and up-to-date on how things are progressing with the case
These suggestions are great! They are nearly applicable to all cases, not just babies. But today, we're focusing on the tiny ones. Enjoy!
In Episode #58, we speak to Claudine Wiant and Reggie Laster both from the Beau Biden Foundation. They explain to us what exactly "Sexting" is, how it can emotionally, socially, and legally affect children and what CASA Volunteers should know about it. They also share great insight on how a CASA, or any adult, can speak to a child about sexting and staying safe while using the internet and/or a smart phone. They provide us with lots of great resources, including:
- The Beau Biden Foundation: https://www.beaubidenfoundation.org/
- The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: https://www.missingkids.org/HOME as well as the phone number 1-800-THE-LOST
- AMAZE for suggestions on how to speak to kids about this topic: https://amaze.org/
All of these resources are incredibly helpful. We hope you enjoy!
In Episode #57, we chat with Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH about vicarious trauma and self-care. Jessica has spent 20 years in the mental health field specifically focusing on the brain, brain development, and how trauma affects the brain. This topic can be applicable to all CASAs in all situations, so please enjoy!
Here are some links to what Jessica referred to during our conversation:
- https://www.stsconsortium.com/what-is-sts
- https://www.stsconsortium.com/_files/ugd/72c6ae_44ccbd3eaff84301ba454b8cc9ed5214.pdf
- https://www.tendacademy.ca/articles/
- www.bravebrains.com
In Episode #56, we chat with Meg Garey, the Executive Director of A Better Chance for Our Children "ABC." ABC is an adoption agency in Delaware that holds a contract with the Division of Family Services in order to offer foster care and adoptive resources. ABC conducts home studies, or family assessments, for families interested in adoption. Meg chats with us about what goes into a family assessment, the time frame, and why family assessments are needed. Enjoy!
Learn more about ABC here: https://abcfoc.org/
In Episode #55, we interview Tara Oliver from Healthy Families Delaware. She describes her program, how it offers support to families with infants, and how they connected families in need with community resources. As a CASA, think about how your family might benefit from their services, though be aware that the services must start before the baby is 2 months old. This services is wonderful and connects several organizations throughout the state to support families in our area. Here is their website as well: https://www.cffde.org/hfa
Brochure: https://060de018-255e-40c2-acce-fed897b2ffb0.filesusr.com/ugd/46adda_ebf76da4c65649cb8d4fe3a0b9a8a0a2.pdf
Enjoy my chat with Tara Oliver!
In Episode #54, I discuss our upcoming 2022 training calendar. Here are some highlights:
- In-Services will be back in-person! They will include a hybrid option via Zoom so anyone who cannot physically attend can still receive the information.
- New Castle County will meet the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 2-4pm. We will start in January at the Courtyard Marriott by the University (400 David Hollowell Drive in Newark). Then, we will move over to the Brandywine Library when they open for public meetings.
- Kent County will meet the 1st Thursday of each month from 10am 12pm at the Department of Correction Administrative Building (245 McKee Road in Dover) until the Department of Transportation opens for public meetings.
- Sussex County will meet the 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Lewes Library (111 Adams Street, Lewes) from 10am to 12pm.
- Lunch & Learn will be held virtually every month during the lunch hour from 12-1pm via Zoom. Anyone can attend these!
- January 21st
- February 10th
- March 7th
- April 26th
- May 26th
- June 23rd
- July 22nd
- August 3rd
- September 8th
- October 10th
- November 2nd
- Virtual CASA Cafe
- January 13th from 11am to 12pm
- February 25th from 11am to 12pm
- March 24th from 12pm to1pm
- April 28th from 10am to 11am
- May 13th from 11am to 12pm
- June 20th from 12 to1pm
- July 14th from 10am to 11am
- August 9th from 3pm to 4pm
- September 22nd from 10am to 11am
- October 28th from 12 to 1pm
- November 14th from 3pm to 4pm
- . New Castle CASA Cafe at the Long Play Cafe (280 E. Main Street, Newark). These will be held in-person only with NO hybrid option. They will be from 10am to 11am and will occur on the 1st Tuesday of each month:
- January 4th
- February 1st
- March 1st
- April 5th
- May 3rd
- June 5th
- July 7th
- August 2nd
- September 6th
- October 4th
- November 1st
- Kent CASA Cafe will be held the 1st Thursday of each month at the CASA Office in Family Court (400 Court Street, Dover) from 10am to 11am. These will be held in-person only with NO hybrid option.
- January 20th
- February 17th
- March 17th
- April 21st
- May 19th
- June 16th
- July 21st
- August 18th
- September 15th
- October 20th
- November 17th
- Sussex CASA Cafe will be held on the 4th Wednesday of every month from 10am to 11am in person ONLY (no hybrid option) at the Lewes Library Medium Room.
- January 26th
- February 23rd
- March 23rd
- April 27th
- May 25th
- June 22nd
- July 27th
- August 24th
- September 28th
- October 26th
- November 16th (note it's the 3rd Wednesday due to Thanksgiving)
- Podcasts will continue to be released on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month.
I will continue to send out a weekly training email on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, updating everyone on the upcoming training as well as providing any applicable Zoom link.
If you have any questions on the 2022 CASA Training Calendar, please email lauren.brueckner@delaware.gov. Thanks!
In Episode #53, we chat with Meredith Seitz, Chief Policy Advisor to the Division of Services for Children, Youth, and their Families as well as Antonisha Busby, the Youth In Transition Coordinator at the Office of the Child Advocate. These amazing ladies discuss the recently signed House Bill 123 which grants higher education tuition waivers to youth who have experienced foster care. This bill has been in the making for a few years and finally came to fruition in 2021. It has been supported by many including former-foster-youth-turned-CASA-volunteer Mayda Berrios and was chiefly sponsored by Representative Krista Griffith among many others. Meredith and Antonisha discuss how this tuition waiver is applicable to the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Delaware Technical Community College. Youth must be eligible to apply. To check eligibility requirements, CLICK HERE.
Enjoy!
In Episode #52, CASA Coordinator Camille Kesheshian discusses how CASA Volunteers can work positively within their teams. These teams focus around the same goal: Permanency for the Child. During the treatment phase of a DFS case, CASAs will work with a variety of different partners from biological parents to foster parents, from DFS social workers to family interventionists. There are a lot of players involved in reunification cases and CASAs should speak to everyone. However, they do not have to rely solely on the DFS Treatment worker for information...the CASA Volunteer should be speaking directly with the biological parents, foster parents, therapists, teachers, children, and many more. When working as a team, all team members should remain patient and positive, even in situations where not all team members agree on something. It's ok if not everyone agrees...it's not our job to agree. Our job is to represent the best interest of a child experiencing foster care. Enjoy listening to Camille share some strategies that CASAs can utilize to be a positive impact of the child's team.
In Episode #51, we chat with 4 amazing CASA Volunteers who have been with their youth for over two years! That's right, 2 years of consistent advocacy for the same youth. The purpose of this interview was to highlight how relationships change over time and to provide the audience with some ideas on how to keep the live alive if they find themselves with a youth for a lengthy period of time. This is especially true if the permanency plan changes during this period of time. These CASA volunteers discuss how they started with their cases and what their relationship with their youth looks like today. Thank you to CASAs Velma Richardson, Tonya Thorpe, Amina Saunders, and Gary Banks for sharing your experiences with us, enjoy!
In Episode #50, we chat with two CASA Coordinators, Emella Kamara and Jennifer Falkowski. Both coordinators share insight on the benefits of youth engagement during their court hearings. They discuss some barriers as well but also discuss how the virtual court appearance option has allowed more youth to attend court and feel comfortable doing so! By virtually participating in court, youth have missed less school, have been able to have some physical distance between themselves and other parties to the case, and have been able to speak more directly with their judge through the use of the breakout room function. Both Emella and Jen discuss how their CASAs identify if a youth wants to participate, then works with the triad to determine how they will participate. Youth may participate in part of the court hearing (then determine which part), all of the court hearing, or make an appointment to meet with the judge at a seperate time. Enjoy this chat with two awesome coordinators!
In Episode #49, we conduct a follow up discussion with Family Court Judge Jones, Alaina Chamberlain -Child Attorney, and Michelle Skoranski-DFS Attorney discuss with us reasons why DFS would be excused from providing reasonable efforts. Through their discussion, we focus on specific incidences where DFS may be excused from working towards reunification through providing these reasonable efforts. Judge Jones specifically discusses the grounds for a petition from DFS to request excusal from providing reasonable efforts. Enjoy this discussion!
In Episode #48, we chat with Mrs. Melissa Briddell of the Elizabeth W. Murphey School located in Dover. The Murphey school is a group home that serves children ages 6-18 then offers a transitional housing option for those over 18 years old. Ms. Briddell outlines life as a house parent, explains the residential breakdown of cottages, and then explains the transitional housing options for youth who have aged out of state custody. Mrs. Briddell tells us that the Elizabeth Cottage houses boys ages 13-18, the Sanford Cottage houses girls ages 13-18, the Florence Cottage houses boys ages 6-12 and the Bradford Cottage houses girls 6-12 years of age. She explains her staff members and provides some insight as to life at the Murphey School. She outlines activities that residents are involved in and encourages CASA volunteers to keep in touch with the house parent and workers at Murphey School to continue strong advocacy for children experiencing foster care.
If you'd like to read more about the Murphey School, here is their website: https://www.murpheyschool.org/services/
In Episode #47, we celebrate 50 years of the Delaware Family Court System! To honor this momentous occasion, we interview Chief Judge Michael Newell, Sussex County Family Court Judge Kenneth M. Millman and Child Advocate Tania Culley, Esq. of the Office of the Child Advocate. These three guests discuss their involvement in the Family Court History Book project as well as how they have witnessed the Family Court evolve over the past half century. Judge Millman explains what the court looked like nearly 25 years ago before the Court Improvement Project was started. He also highlights what actions came about as a result of that effort and how they continue on today. Both Chief Judge Newell and Tania Culley discuss where they see the Family Court going in the next 50 years and how they hope to contribute.
Please enjoy this edition of our podcast!
Episode #46 focuses on the development of children! Pediatrician Judy Gorra speaks to CASA volunteers about what they should know about child development. We go through the early infancy years through the teenage years. Dr. Gorra shares some very insightful information on the prenatal process as well as the necessity of early bonding between children and caregivers. All CASAs can benefit from listening to this podcast to gain an idea of what typical child development looks like and how their CASA child should generally develop. Dr. Gorra is a wealth of knowledge and shares her thoughts on how CASAs can assist the children they work with during the involvement of the Division of Family Services. Enjoy!
In Episode #45, we chat with Moira Dillon of the Division of Family Services as she walks us through the Permanency Planning Committee process. This process is known to many as the "PPC" and it is what determines a child's permanency plan while in the custody of DFS. During most cases, a CASA volunteer will attend at least one PPC meeting on their child(ren). In this episode, Moira discusses who attends, what's the purpose, permanency options, and what is expected of a CASA volunteer while attending. Enjoy!
In Episode #44, we chat about a dependency/neglect case flow from an Ex Parte Order to the Permanency Hearing. We discuss when court reports are due by CASA volunteers, what the purpose is of each court hearing and how to should always focus on permanency....we must seek an Urgency for Permanency! We do not want children to grow up in foster care, so CASA should always work with team members in attempts to find appropriate supportive adults in case reunification does not work out. The purpose of this podcast episode is to reinforce the purpose of each court hearing, the flow of the court process and remind CASAs of the permanency plan options. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, we interview CASA Caroline Jones who also happens to be the founder and CEO of a Delaware Non-Profit called Kind to Kids. Caroline became a CASA in 2007 and during her first few years, she experienced several hardships for kids in foster care who she realized she could help! So, Kind to Kids was founded in 2010 with the mission of "a future for every child." In our chat, she discusses the various programs within the organization including the UGrad Program, the Blue Duffle Program, the Life Skills Educational Program and the Help-A-Kid Services. If any CASA has a child they think might benefit from any of the Kind to Kid services, please reach out to Caroline directly. Her email address is caroline.jones@kindtokids.org. Patrick Adzadu is the program manager for the UGrad program and can be reached via email at patrick@kindtokids.org. Learn more about Kind to Kids by checking out their website: https://kindtokids.org/
Plus check out their really cool video interviewing some clients: https://youtu.be/KzmBFXCYx7I
Jessica Hazzard is the newest member of the CASA Staff! We are so excited to have her join us as a CASA Coordinator serving Kent and Sussex Counties. Jess joined the CASA Program on April 13, 2021 and is now assigned several new CASA volunteers as well as a few veteran volunteers. She brings with her child welfare experience having worked in a homeless shelter, as a child welfare investigator and finally as a family interventionist. Welcome to our team Jess!
Have you heard the term "Reasonable Efforts" in a dependency/neglect proceeding yet? Have you ever wondered what that actually means? In this episode, we interview Family Court Judge Peter B. Jones along with child attorney Alaina Chamberlain and DFS attorney Michelle Skoranksi. Our three panels describe Reasonable Efforts and how they pertain to child welfare, specifically what findings need to be judicially made, how they affect children, and the impact in reunification services offered by the Division of Family Services. This episode applies to nearly every CASA Volunteer with a dependency/neglect case so hopefully you'll listen and learn something that you can apply to your case. Enjoy!
In this episode, we interview Jennifer Tozer from the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, known as DDDS. Jen chats with us about how clients are referred to their programs, what community partners and connections DDDS works with as well as how clients can take advantage of their services. We also chat about housing options, case manager and worker support, and philosophies. Jennifer also offered that if anyone has questions, they can reach her directly at jennifer.tozer@delaware.gov. Enjoy!
Mayda Berrios entered foster care in her mid-teens as a result of a challenging relationship with her biological mother. From day one, Mayda was a strong self-advocate. She stayed in foster care until the age of 18 when she graduated high school and headed off to Delaware State University where she is currently a Junior. She took advantage of Independent Living Services and was able to seek several resources to aid her in housing, education, and employment. She turned 21 years old in Fall of 2020 and became a CASA Volunteer! In our conversation with Mayda, she is very open about her experience in foster care and provides great kudos to those who assisted her in her journey. This is a great "Feel Good" episode where CASA volunteers can pick up several tid-bits of ideas on how to best advocate for youth experiencing foster care.
In Episode #38, we take a moment to chat with State Director Melissa Palokas. Missy chats with us about the current state of the CASA Program including our current recruitment efforts and the need for more CASA volunteers. Currently, only about half of children in foster care have a CASA volunteer. All children experiencing foster care have an attorney, but only half have the additional support of a CASA. In all of our recruitment efforts, we have found that the best recruitment tool at our disposal is our current CASA Volunteers! So, if you know anyone interesting in joining our amazing CASA Program, please direct them to apply directly on our website: https://courts.delaware.gov/childadvocate/CASA/application.aspx
In addition to recruitment, Missy further explains our strategic plan for the CASA Program as well as National CASA Standards. We aim to remain in good standing with the National CASA Program and in order to do that, there are certain standards we must maintain including having all CASA Volunteer achieve 12 hours of in-service credit per year, visit their child(ren) at least monthly, and actively participate in cases. Enjoy our chat with Missy Palokas!
In Episode #37, we interview 6 amazing advocates in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month. We start off with Prevent Child Abuse Delaware's Director Kellie Turner along with her colleague Tricia Ewing, the Director of Advancement. Tricia also recently became a CASA Volunteer!
We have Sharon Fallen - Family Crisis Therapist, who works in the Little Kid Treatment unit, her role is case planning with families, for kids in foster care she plans with parents to get them reunified with their families and for intact families she links families with services to help support them and prevent future involvement with our agency. Then, we speak to Amanda Gorr - Family Crisis Therapist, who works in the Urgent Investigation unit (P1/P2 unit requires a 24 or 3 day response time), and she is a specialized SEI worker, Substance Exposed Infants, she responds to cases with newborns that have been exposed and plans with the family to ensure safety upon discharge from the hospital through our Plans of Safe Care.
Amanda "Mandy" McFarland - Family Crisis Therapist supervisor, who is a supervisor in one of the DFS FAIR units (Family Assessment & Intervention Response), a differential response to the investigation units. She joined our team after having worked in Florida's child welfare system. We are planning to expand our FAIR units in the near future, which is very exciting for us. Her staff take a family centered FAIR approach when working with families, they respond to cases deemed by our hotline as lower risk (P3 units require a 10 day response time), and the staff coordinate family team meetings to discuss the worries that exist and then link the family with services in the community, as opposed to traditional investigation workers where a family would be substantiated for child abuse/neglect.
Christy Diffendall is the Assistant Regional Administrator for Region II in New Castle County. She has enjoyed a 15 year career with DFS, and she currently manages and supervises 10 Family Crisis Therapist Supervisors; in various functions of Treatment, FAIR, and Investigation. She works closely with DFS senior leadership team and with our Regional Administrator to support our staff, ensure policies are being followed and often complete administrative reviews of cases that may need additional direction & oversight.
In Episode #36, we interview Michelle Darling of the Youth Rehabilitative Services ("YRS") which is a sister agency to the Division of Family Services ("DFS"). In our chat with Michelle, we learn how YRS operates, how they offer services to the children they serve, and how they partner with other state agency. Michelle helps understand the purpose of YRS and how clients are referred to them and how they support clients in their care. Enjoy!
In Episode #35, we chat with attorney Alex Corbin. Alex walks us through some of the early processes the Department of Education took in order to respond to the pandemic in Spring 2020. He discusses what some of these adjustments were as well as how they affected students, especially those who use special education services as well as children in the custody of Division of Family Services. Alex discusses how Delaware's Department of Education and various school districts planned for the school year of 2020-2021 and make adjustments to "normal" school life. He also discusses some of the resources and technologies that were employed to assist students, staff, and administrators. Finally, in our chat we discuss some lessons moving forward and what positives have come out of the pandemic, especially ways that we've learned to use technology that might be beneficial moving forward. Enjoy our chat with Alex Corbin, Esq.!
In Episode #34, we honor retiring CASA Coordinator Jacqueline Kemp. Jacqui is retiring after 18 years in the child welfare arena having spent the last few years with the CASA Program. In our chat with Jacqui, she discusses how the child welfare sector has changed over the past two decades and what life was like growing up with a father as a traveling doctor. She discusses how these experiences helped shape her life, her empathy, her compassion, and ultimately, her career. She highlights some of things she will miss as well as some of the things she is looking forward to. Here's to you, Jacqui....happy retirement!
In Episode #33, we have the privilege of interviewing Chief Judge Michael Newell. During our chat, the Chief Judge discusses fascinating history within Family Court as well as his own personal path to the bench. The Chief Judge also discusses some of his initiatives leading the Family Court as well as what he hopes to undertake in 2021 including celebrating 50 years of Delaware's Family Court! Finally, he discusses his experience working with CASA Volunteers and provides some very helpful guidance and advice for CASA volunteers. Enjoy!
In Episode #32, we chat with Division of Family Services Treatment Worker Shanna Ruello. She speaks to us about what brought into child welfare in the late 1990s and what has kept her here. She discusses how she aquaints herself with a new case, how she introduces and works with a family to reunify, and how she prefers to interact with a CASA Volunteer. She shares some great insight on how CASA volunteers can partner with DFS workers to achieve permanency. Hopefully in listening to this episode, you may examine your own case and determine some ways you can best work along side of your case's DFS worker. Enjoy!
In Episode #31, we interview Kelly Ensslin, Esq. and Megan Caudell of the Office of the Child Advocate. Together, they discuss the steps that go into assigning a dependency/neglect petition. They chat about doing a conflict check, clarifying any historical involvement and finally how a decision is made about who should take a case: an attorney only or an attorney plus a CASA. Currently, only half the children currently in DFS custody have a CASA volunteer. Our goal over the next few years is to push it to 100% where every child has both an attorney and a CASA volunteer. Enjoy this episode!
In Episode #30, we recap 2020 training statistics for kids in care as well as CASAs and training. In 2020, we trained and swore in 60 new CASA volunteers statewide! We had a total of 6 groups come through. The first group was able to train in person while the second through the sixth group were trained virtually. We also launched the Peer Mentor program where experienced CASA Volunteers are matched up with new volunteers to help them work their case. We also discuss our 2021 training plan including new initiatives such as a once-a-month virtual statewide CASA cafe and assistance once-a-month with the Apricot Portal to input monthly hours. The 2021 training plan will be released in the first week of December so keep an eye out for an email from Lauren!
In Episode #29, we chat with Sue Murray, Deputy Director of the Division of Family Services. Sue has been with DFS for 25 years and now mostly manages the operational side of the division. She has a wealth of knowledge on child welfare and we focus our chat on specific initiatives the DFS has been working on over the past few years. From 2013-2016, DFS underwent a process called "Outcomes Matter" which highlighted efforts to focus on Family First and provide prevention services rather than reactive treatment measures. In our chat, Sue discusses three of these main initiatives and how they are going. She also chats about how the pandemic has affected DFS efforts and where she sees DFS going in the next few years. Enjoy!
In Episode #28, we interview Diane Klecan, Director of Client Services for the Children's Advocacy Center in Delaware, known as the CAC. Diane has been in child welfare for over 20 years, most of which has been spent at the CAC. Diane describes the interview protocol that forensic interviewers use when working with a child to determine if physical or sexual abuse occurred. She explains the Multidisciplinary team that works together to address these types of abuses and what happens if a disclosure is made. She explains what CASA volunteers should know about the CAC process as well as what services are offered to child clients. Enjoy!
In Episode #27, we chat with Kent County Family Court Judge Louann Vari. She comes to the bench with a wealth of knowledge in child welfare including her work at the Attorney Generals office and time spent as a Commissioner. She has been on the bench for 4 years now. She walks us through her early legal career and then dives deeper into her joys on the bench as well as some of the challenges. She speaks so highly of CASA volunteers that it's easy to feel her admiration for the work that all CASA Volunteers do for our kids. She speaks to us about her wishes for kids in DFS custody as well as how CASAs can best assist her and their child clients. Enjoy Judge Vari!
In Episode #26, we interview Theresa Broome and Kim Sabanayagam from Children and Families First. Theresa is the Program Manager of several programs at Children and Families First while Kim is a Case Manger, working directly with families to provide services. For the purpose of today's podcast, we really focused on Family Search and Engagement, a program supported by Children and Families First with the purpose of finding supportive adults for youth in foster care. While permanency is the ultimate goal, Kim and her colleagues work with biological relatives, children, and other agency workers to identify possible supportive adults to remain in a child's life and help them transition into adulthood.
During this episode, Kim and Theresa reference MY LIFE Services. These are services offered to youth in foster care and stands for My Young Life In Foster care Explained. We have a great recorded video training on this topic, which can be found here.
Please enjoy your chat with Theresa and Kim!
In Episode #25, we chat with Sussex CASA Carole Cotman who details her DFS case while highlighting not only her own advocacy skills, but also the manner in which to agree to disagree. Carole chats about her case which involved 4 generations of one family. She visited various foster homes numerous times as well as the homes of family members. Carole used her professional background as an educator to encourage team members to speak openly yet kindly to one another. She was able to navigate one member's anger issues and work with him to realize the ultimate goal. In the end, DFS and CASA disagreed on permanency for two of the children and Carole details how she was able to still work with DFS in a very positive way even though they disagreed on permanency. Have a listen and enjoy!
In Episode #24, we interview attorney Jae Eberly who is the attorney for the Division of Family Services. As an attorney for DFS, he is known as a DAG (Deputy Attorney General). He shares his experience with us as an attorney for the state for nearly 20 years. He is now based in Kent County and he shares some great insights on how CASA volunteers can best assist the child welfare process. The number one theme that reoccurred during our chat with Jae was how crucial CASAs can be when it comes to communication. Often times CASA volunteers are the one person who has been on the case from the beginning and knows all the players. CASAs can encourage communication between all the parties, they can update DFS when they learn something of importance, and they can collaborate with the child attorney and CASA Coordinator to identify any gaps in services. Enjoy this episode!
In Episode #23, we chat with Christine Jones-Bey Brown, Independent Living Provider Director at People's Place. Christina has been working with youth in foster care for over 16 years! She has a wealth of knowledge in the subject and has worked with countless youth as they age out of the child welfare system and enter into adulthood. Now, Christina oversees case managers who provide direct Independent Living Services to these youth such as housing, education, employment, mental health and financial management. Listen in to hear how People's Place operates to offer these services and what Christina has to share about her experience working with older youth. Enjoy!
In Episode #22, we chat with Rosie Morales who works within the Office of the Child Advocate to oversee the CAN Panel and CPAC. The CAN Panel is the Child Abuse & Neglect Panel. They are a group of child welfare professionals that meet monthly to review cases involving child death or near death situations. They help form policy and make system changes to better protect Delaware's children. The CPAC is known as the Child Protection Accountability Commission which is overseen by Office of the Child Advocate Director Tania Culley, esq. This Commission works to propose legislation to aid in the protection of children and implements system wide changes as well. You can learn more about the CPAC Here: https://courts.delaware.gov/childadvocate/cpac/
In Episode #21, we interview Lois Glenn-Carter, a CASA volunteer with her own experience as a youth in foster care. At the age of 9, Lois entered foster care with her siblings due to her mother's suffering from substance abuse. The following day, her mother was murdered and for the next decade, Lois and her younger brother spent their remaining childhood years in foster care. Lois speaks about the challenges but also highlights some of the benefits she received while in foster care, including the relationships she built with her foster parents and workers. She has children of her own now and two decades after aging out, she is now the CEO of a company she started herself to help families through mediation efforts. She brings an incredible view point of the foster care system to her role as a CASA volunteer and we look forward to her advocating for children who are experiencing something similar to what she experienced, Thanks Lois!
If you prefer to watch Lois give her presentation, you can watch her on our YouTube channel HERE.
In Episode #20, we interview Kristin Collison, a parent attorney in Kent County. Kristen discusses how she approaches a new case with a parent client, how she communicates with him/her and how she advocates for her clients. She provides a different perspective and point of view as we work through the reunification process. She speak to the mode of communication, the process of preparing for a court hearing, and what she feels a CASA volunteer should know about supporting a parent during the reunification process.
In Episode #19, we interview CASA Susana Betancourt who became a CASA in early 2020. English is not her native language; Spanish is. She was able to use her skills to facilitate discussions with the CASA case she first received. The case involved a Spanish-speaking family and Susana was able to use her language skills to help translate and support the service providers in offering services to the family. She also used her knowledge of international calling to utilize WhatsApp, a free app that can be used to make international calls and send messages. Susana was a vital part of her child's team in working towards reunification. Take a listen and see if you can use some of your specific skills and knowledge to support your CASA family!
In Episode #18, we chat with Jonathan Harting, a DFS Attorney, otherwise known as a Deputy Attorney General. Jonathan is based in New Castle County and represents the Division in Family Court proceedings. He has been with DFS for a few years as a DAG and during our chat with him, he explains what he feels are the high points and low points of his job. Every DFS division in each county is represented in court by a DAG. Just like each parent is given an attorney (if they are indigent) and the child has an attorney through OCA/CASA, so does DFS. Jonathan shares with us his experience as the Division's attorney and what he feels CASA volunteers should know about his role, DFS, and other helpful tidbits of info for volunteers. Please enjoy our chat with Jonathan Harting!
In this episode, we sit down to speak with Executive Director of the Community Inspired Actions non-profit organization located in Sussex County, Mrs. Ketanya Moore. She joins us to tell us about her non-profit organization that emphasizes community partnerships to assist those in need. She is a mother of four and is currently serving as a foster mother to a young 2-year old as well. Mrs. Moore started Community Inspired Action, known as CIA, in 2019 and now is turning her focus in 2020 to create the RISE Program. This program directly benefits youth transitioning out of foster care and who are ages 18-21 years old. In this episode, she explains the program as well as how the program might benefit some of our clients. So have a listen and if you feel that this program might help your youth, please reach out to Mrs. Moore. Her email address is kmoore@cia-de.org, her website is www.cia-delaware.org and her phone number is (302) 448-5702. Enjoy!
In Episode #16, we sit down with CASA Coordinator and Director of Volunteer Recruitment LaTysse McKinzie-Mack. She has a wealth of knowledge in the child welfare and shares her experiences now as the CASA Director of Volunteer Recruitment. Prior to COVID-19, LaTysse had a robust plan to recruit CASA volunteers, including the 3 Ms: Males, Minorities, and Millennials. But....COVID had another plan so LaTysse is remaining flexible and still working hard to recruit Delaware volunteers. She is very active on social media, using current CASAs to help spread the word about our need for more volunteers, and partnering with community volunteers to add more CASA volunteers to our amazing Delaware Program.
In Episode #15, we interview Jennifer Glanden, the Permanency Unit Supervisor for the Division of Family Services in Kent County. Jennifer outlines what the Permanency Unit does, how a case gets to them and how they work achieving permanency for the youth in the custody of DFS. Jennifer brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience and shares from the heart about what it's like to be a DFS worker turned supervisor. While she is from Kent County, she shares about Sussex County and New Castle County as well. She describes what occurs at a Permanency Planning Committee meeting, how to prepare, and what happens once the committee votes to change a permanency plan.
In Episode #14, we interview Eliza Hirst, esq. who is a former Deputy Child Advocate with the Office of the Child Advocate. Ms. Hirst spent nearly a decade legally advocating for children in DFS custody. During her time at OCA, she represented hundreds of children involved in dependency and neglect proceedings and used her knowledge and experience to pursue a deeper understanding of trauma. Ms. Hirst talks to us in this episode about using Trauma Informed Language and just how much our words matter to the people we are working with. This is a great episode that encourages us to reflect on our own words and actions in how we've worked with families as part of the CASA Program. Take a listen and think about how you can consciously utilize Trauma Informed Language on your own CASA case.
In Episode #13, we interview Antonisha Busby who joined the Office of the Child Advocate recently as the Youth in Transition Coordinator. Her job focuses on assisting youth aging out of foster care. Antonisha capitalizes on her experience as an Independent Living Provider to assist the young adults on her case load and assists them with housing, employment, education, and financial support. In this episode, she discusses the Ivyanne Davis Scholarship supported by the Office of the Child Advocate. She also encourages anyone and everyone to donate to this great cause. In 2020, she has received 54 scholarship applicants and knows that the funds cannot support everyone, but she's doing her best to assist as many as possible. If you or anyone you may know is willing to donate, please visit: https://courts.delaware.gov/childadvocate/about-us/support.aspx. Then, click on "donate" and in the comment box, write "Scholarship" so the funds are appropriately designated. Enjoy this great episode!
In Episode #12, we sit down to chat with 5 of our 11 CASA Coordinators: Jen Falkowski of New Castle, Megan Caudell of New Castle, James "Clark" Huffman of Sussex, Tahira Ayyaz of New Castle, and Nakia Howard of Kent. These five folks share about their early beginnings, how they joined the CASA Program, why they joined, and what they've done in their tenure with the program. They also share some successes and challenges they've experienced along the way. This episode is packed full of information about nearly half of our CASA Coordinators, so you might learn a little something about your coordinator that you didn't know before....or at least something about someone else's coordinator! Enjoy another episode of the CASA Delaware LIVE! Podcast :).
In Episode #11, we have a full hour speaking with the founding attorney at the Office of the Child Advocate! Ms. Tania Culley, esq. is an incredible force of nature and absolutely fights for all kids involved in dependency/neglect proceedings. From the humble beginning, Tania was given the task of not only creating the Office of the Child Advocate, but supervising it on a daily basis and growing it year after year to become the power house it is today. She has spent over two decades advocating for children and looking out for their best interests. She brings passion, empathy, and dedication to the entire office and challenges all those involved in child welfare to think outside the box, be creative, and keep permanency at the forefront of all of our minds. Tania has been a strong leader in child welfare for more than half of her professional career and her knowledge and expertise says it all. Enjoy this hour-long chat with Tania as she leads us through the founding and early history of the Office of the Child Advocate as well as where she sees the organization in the next two decades!
In Episode #10, we get the opportunity to speak to a client! Yep, that's right, she's a young adult under extended jurisdiction. Rose came into foster care at the age of 17 after having lived with her grandfather who could no longer take care of her and her younger siblings. She came into DFS custody and in our interview with her, she details what life has been like the last few years including how she maintains contact with her grandfather, siblings, and other family members. She has an incredible outlook on life and has taken full advantage of all services offered to her. You'll absolutely enjoy this conversation with client Rose as she reminds us who we're all working for!
So what is IC? It's the Office of the Investigation Coordinator. This office was created in 2013 as a result of the Earl Bradley case in Sussex County. Jennifer Donahue, former Deputy Child Attorney for the Office of the Child Advocate, founded the Office of the Investigation Coordinator when it was created. She has lead the office since it's inception and has partnered with several state agencies to work together to identify, report, investigate and prosecute child sexual abuse cases. In this episode, we interview Jen Donahue, esq. and learn why and how the office was created as well as how the office responds to alleged reports. Did you know that the Office of the Child Advocate is more than just the CASA Program? Take a listen to learn about one of the other offices within the Office of the Child Advocate.
In 2014, the Federal Government passed a law that states that children in foster care who are under the age of 16 cannot have APPLA (Another Permanent Planned Living Arrangement) as a permanency plan. Let's face it...APPLA is not a plan, it's a status. The purpose of permanency is to provide youths with just that....permanency. That means a place to call home, people to depend on, folks to come to their aid and support when life goes well or not so well. When the federal government took this action, the purpose was to force the child welfare system to think outside the box to identify permanency resources for kids in foster care. That meant foster parents taking guardianship, finding adoptive resources for kids, and reaching out to adults who the youth sees as a supportive person to explore their willingness to make a permanent commitment to this young person.
The Office of the Child Advocate acknowledges that sometimes APPLA is the most appropriate plan for a youth. When that happens, that's ok, we just want to ensure that we have done everything possible to identify another option. In this interview, we speak to Chief of Legal Services attorney Kelly Ensslin as she shares her thoughts on APPLA and how CASAs can best advocate for permanency plans other than APPLA.
In Episode #7 we interview Friends of CASA President Dennis Hallock and Friends of Sussex CASA President Susan O'Doherty. Both presidents explain their auxiliary boards and how they aim to assist the children in Delaware's foster care system as well as offer support to CASA Volunteers. The mission of both organizations is to provide support and grant client funding requests to help bridge any gap between what the children receive from the state and what they still may need. Both organizations have provided funding for requests such as summer camps, sporting activities, and graduation accessories (yearbooks, pictures, etc.). The CASA Delaware Program is so grateful for both organizations and the support they offer to our program. Friends of CASA services Kent and New Castle Counties and Friends of Sussex CASA serves Sussex County. If you'd like more information on either program, send them an email!
Friends of CASA: focdelaware@gmail.com
Friends of Sussex CASA: friendsofsussexcasa@gmail.com
Episode #6 focuses on a great conversation with experienced CASA Bruce Wyngaard. Bruce shares about his experience as a CASA volunteer as well as some tips and tricks that he's learned along the way especially when working with teenagers. Bruce has a kind way about him and he's very analytical, so he uses those great skills to advocate for the children he's appointed to represent. Bruce has some great ideas of actions that he's taken when working with different youth, so maybe you can put some of these actions items to practice as well. The CASA Delaware Program currently has 240 CASA volunteers; 203 of them are women and 37 are men. We are so grateful to all of our CASA volunteers but we absolutely recognize the need for more men, so if you know of anyone interested in becoming a CASA, send them our way! They can apply directly here: https://courts.delaware.gov/childadvocate/casa/application.aspx
Episode #5 includes an interview with child attorney David Holloway, who joined the Office of the Child Advocate to further his work in the child welfare system. Dave shares some wonderful insights into his work in child welfare. He also shares some great tips and tricks on how CASA volunteers can best partner with child attorneys, CASA coordinators, and other various partners including Division of Family Services social workers, families, and service providers. Have a listen! We suggest that you keep a pen and paper close by to jot down some action items that you may think about using when working a case of your own. Enjoy!
Episode #4 provides a panel discussion as three CASA volunteers share their experience working with teenagers in DFS custody. We have one volunteer from each county to share their specific experience. We have Sarah Wootten of Sussex County, Barbara Roos of Kent County, and Linda Busacca from New Castle County. The best part is that each CASA shares some tangible actions steps that they took to connect with and advocate for the teenager in care. We suggest listening to this podcast with a pen and paper and get ready to take some notes on actions you can take to best advocate and work with the teenagers on your own case load!
In Episode #3, we interview Sussex County Family Court Judge Peter B. Jones. He shares with us his early employment history as a practicing attorney then guides us through his transition to becoming a judge. He has been on the bench for over two decades and he shares his experience working with private cases as well as dependency/neglect DFS cases. He offers some thoughts on how CASAs influence and support him in the court room as well as gives some great examples of actions taken by CASA volunteers. Listen to this episode and complete your In-Service Credit Training Form, then send to Lauren Brueckner (lauren.brueckner@delaware.gov) to receive your training credit!
Episode #2 interviews three attorneys in our CASA program: Melissa Hutchison from Kent County, Al Cave from New Castle County, and Elizabeth Soucek from Sussex County. Each attorney walks CASA volunteers through prepping for virtual testimony and covers topics such as dress code, background set up, and technology logistics. Then, they each dive into how to interact during court as well as how to prepare for court. Each attorney shares great insight into how best to prepare to virtually testify, especially as some courtrooms transition from Skype to Zoom. So take a listen and see how their guidance can help you prepare and participate in court hearings virtually. This episode is 60 minutes long so when you're finished, complete the In-Service Training Credit Form and send to lauren.brueckner@delaware.gov to receive your hour of in-service credit!
Melissa Palokas is the CASA Delaware State Director. She joined the CASA Program in 2015 after a decade in various child welfare capacities. She has been the state director since October 2018 and continues to lead the CASA Program through the current health pandemic. She has two teenage boys, a golf-course superintendent husband, and two furry friends at home! She brings great experience, knowledge, and vision to the CASA Program. In this interview, she shares with us her background, her gratitude to CASA Volunteers and her vision for the future of the CASA Program.