Giving Back: Spotlight On Josh Auger, CASA Committee Member and Volunteer

There are many ways to support CASA’s mission, and each is equally important and worthy. For Josh Auger, this has meant reaching out to friends, colleagues and businesses to make connections and introductions. Josh, a business marketing consultant for New Hampshire Magazine, was first introduced to CASA through his wife, a first grade teacher who worked in Manchester and often interacted with both DCYF and volunteer advocates on behalf of her students.

Having been a junior high English teacher for years, Josh had always “been involved with kids” and knew it was important to volunteer for a cause that was critical to the well-being of children. “I knew there was a great need for people to help out at CASA,” he said.

While he intended to become a volunteer advocate, he realized that his current profession would take him all over the state and he would have limited availability. He subsequently decided to join the resource development committee to “build relationships” and bring in other key players. Josh’s decision has been tremendously beneficial to CASA, launching long-term partnerships with businesses and individuals.  “It takes little to make connections. Small influences add up quickly. We all have friends and colleagues who can help this organization.”

Josh’s reaching out to others has been instrumental in garnering financial and in-kind support. His connections have helped launched the first “On Tap for CASA,” a 12-hour barstool challenge at New England’s Tap House Grille in Hooksett, which last year generated approximately $28,000. As a member of CASA’s Snowfest Committee, Josh has spearheaded partnerships with businesses throughout the Mount Washington Valley. This year, thanks to introductions to business friends Mark LaClair of Seven Birches Winery and Renee Blood of RiverWalk Resort, CASA will be the recipient of funds raised from the first “Wine and Ice” event sponsored by Riverwalk, Seven Birches Winery and LaVista restaurant in Lincoln immediately following Snowfest on February 2nd.  Given CASA’s mission to help victimized children, many individuals and businesses see the importance and are quick to ask “what can we do for CASA?” Josh said adding “it behooves businesses to get involved. It’s good for the business, and good for CASA.”

Josh also believes that there are many opportunities for businesses and organizations throughout the state to host third party events that benefit CASA. As the director of the annual Celtic Festival in Manchester, Josh recommended that CASA receive a portion of the funds raised. His community outreach has extended far and wide; he is currently a volunteer coach and serves on the board of directors for Manchester North Soccer League, NHSCOT – The New Hampshire Highland Games, and Manchester Crime Line. A strong proponent of giving back, he believes that “these are the kind of things we want our kids to see as they are growing up.”

We are deeply grateful to Josh and all our volunteers for their commitment and support of our mission.