The idea of forming a CASA program in Milam County was the dream of Mike and Shanna of Rockdale. (They are current foster parents and don’t want their last name in the newspaper.) They knew that foster kids could be greatly benefited by having a dedicated volunteer to be their eyes and ears for the court. Mike reached out on social media over the summer to gather people together that might be interested in Bringing CASA to Milam County.
The initial meeting had eight people present. A Facebook Group, “Bring CASA to Milam County” was started and more people joined and learned more about CASA.
“Our first organizational meeting took place at the Kay Theater in Rockdale in September 2022. From that meeting, we have accomplished many things,” said Outreach Chair Nancy Zenner. “CASA of Milam County will host a community information event from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Family Life Center located behind First Baptist Church in Rockdale.”
“Speakers from the DA’s office, CPS personnel and CASA volunteers will share the importance of CASA and how trained volunteers will benefit the foster children of Milam County,” she said. “We hope that you can join us. It will be a come and go event and will give people the opportunity to ask questions and find out how they can become involved.”
The group has progressed to the point where CASA of Milam County is now seeking candidates for the board of directors. In order to serve on the board of directors, the applicant will go through an interview process including criminal and CPS background checks as well as fingerprinting. If you would like to serve on the board or know of someone who would, email Mike Wilson at mwilson4479@yahoo. com.
“We cannot move forward until we have the board of directors set in place. We will have copies of the policies and procedures for the board of directors, along with applications at our event on Jan. 10,” Zenner added.
The organization is still looking for office space in Milam County. If you own or know someone who has an office space available, that they can offer to CASA of Milam County free of charge for at least the first year, let one of the chairpersons listed below know. The donation may be used as a tax write off as CASA of Milam County will be a 501(c)3 organization.
CASA applied for 501(c)(3) status and will be a tax-deductible entity. They have been approved by National CASA as a program in formation.
If you cannot attend the meeting and have questions or would like to recommend someone for our board, please reach out to one of the steering committee chairpersons Nancy Zenner, Outreach Chair, teamzenner@gmail.com, 512-635-7080; Rachel Owens, Administrative Chair, captainneo1@ yahoo.com, 512-429-1336; Toni Martinez, Finance Chair, toni.laces.up@gmail.com; or Mike Wilson, Board Development Chair, mwilson4479@yahoo.com.
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