CASA of NH Graduates 16 New Advocates

Our in-person summer training session concluded in late July, and CASA of New Hampshire is excited to welcome 16 new volunteer advocates from across the state. Please join us in congratulating Dawn, Cristina, Mike, Bev, Jennifer, Debra, Audra, Paula, Nan, Beth R., John, Paul, Linda, Mary, Patrick and Beth W.

CASA of NH offers a variety of different training options, including virtual, in-person and a hybrid model with guided independent study. Currently we’re accepting applications for two virtual trainings beginning in September and October. If the upcoming sessions don’t work for you, check back soon – our Training Calendar is updated as new classes are scheduled.

Those interested in applying can do so here, or please join us for a virtual information session to learn more about what it means to become an advocate. Information sessions are held twice a month and offer a chance to ask questions of both CASA of NH staff members and advocates.

CASA of NH Board Member Completes Bike Ride Across America

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Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire board member Kathleen Thomas of Hampton completed her cross-country bike ride in support of CASA of NH on July 25 at Sanders Poynt in Rye, New Hampshire. To mark the occasion, she dipped her wheel in the Atlantic Ocean, bringing an official end to her 3,800-mile trip.

After dipping her bike wheel in the Pacific, Thomas departed Astoria, Oregon, on June 10. To date (July 29 – donations will remain open for another month), she has raised $31,000 of her $38,000 goal. As she rode from coast to coast, she documented her progress at www.ktacrossamerica.com and via social media.

Thomas undertook the “Portland-to-Portland route, slightly modified,” she says, totaling about 3,800 miles. She averaged about 100 miles per day, with just a handful of days off.

Thomas climbed mountains, rode through flatlands, and endured the many challenges, big and small, that come with such a long two-wheeled adventure – bad weather, flat tires, unexpected snow, hunger, a swarm of grasshoppers, tiredness and long stretches of time alone with her thoughts (she rode solo with van support). It was her commitment to CASA of NH, she says, that helped her with the mental aspects of the trip.

“CASA’s mission resonates with me on every level,” says Thomas. “Children in unstable homes, those who suffer abuse and neglect, need a voice – they are so isolated. I believe in CASA and the amazing volunteer advocates who represent these children – their work is critical.” Raising money for CASA along her difficult journey was an important motivator, she adds. “I wanted something to keep my head focused while I’m riding across the country – for when I’m tired and questioning what I’m doing. It’s important for me to realize that I may be suffering today on the bike, but that’s nothing like what these kids suffer. I have a choice, but they don’t get a choice, and I’ll take their inspiration with me.”

A Bike Ride Across the Country to Benefit CASA of New Hampshire

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire board member Kathleen Thomas will bicycle across the country in support of CASA of NH. After dipping her bike wheel in the Pacific, Thomas will depart from Astoria, Oregon, on June 10 and plans to end by dipping her wheel in the Atlantic in Portsmouth, NH, on approximately July 22. As she rides from coast to coast, she will document her progress at www.ktacrossamerica.com.

Thomas is taking the “Portland-to-Portland route, slightly modified,” she says, which means she’ll bike a total of 3,800 miles averaging about 100 miles per day, with just four days of planned rest. Well, three days of rest, anyway – she “absolutely intends” to hike in Montana on her first day off from biking. Although considering her other hobbies include long-distance triathlons, hiking may well her version of R&R.

Thomas will climb mountains, ride through flatlands, and endure the many challenges, big and small, that come with such a long two-wheeled adventure – bad weather, flat tires, hunger, tiredness and long stretches of time alone with her thoughts (she’s riding solo with van support). Helping her with the mental aspects of the trip is her commitment to CASA of NH.

“CASA’s mission resonates with me on every level,” says Thomas. “Children in unstable homes, those who suffer abuse and neglect, need a voice – they are so isolated. I believe in CASA and the amazing volunteer advocates who represent these children – their work is critical.” Raising money for CASA along her difficult journey will also be an important motivator, she adds. “I wanted something to keep my head focused while I’m riding across the country – for when I’m tired and questioning what I’m doing. It’s important for me to realize that I may be suffering today on the bike, but that’s nothing like what these kids suffer. I have a choice, but they don’t get a choice, and I’ll take their inspiration with me.”

A celebration to welcome Thomas as she rides into Portsmouth is planned for July 22, although the date may change depending on her progress. Updates can be found at www.ktacrossamerica.com, and via CASA of NH on Facebook and Instagram.

About CASA of New Hampshire

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire provides trauma-informed, best-interests advocacy for New Hampshire children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect by empowering a statewide network of trained volunteer advocates to speak on their behalf so they can thrive in safe, permanent homes. Since its founding in 1989, CASA of NH has advocated for nearly 12,000 children in court, giving them a chance at a better future.

In fiscal year 2023, CASA of NH guardians ad litem served 1,549 children throughout the state, collectively donating 87,585 hours and making more than 13,000 visits to children. Appointed by the court, these volunteers are everyday people who come from all backgrounds – experience in law or social work is not required. If you have the heart to help, we can teach you the rest. For anyone interested in learning more about volunteering, CASA of NH offers virtual information sessions twice a month. These are a wonderful opportunity to listen to or talk with both staff and current volunteers. Visit www.casanh.org to register for an information session or to learn more about CASA of NH.

CASA Cares Raises a Record-breaking Amount for New Hampshire’s Children Experiencing Abuse and Neglect

CASA of New Hampshire, a nonprofit that trains volunteers to advocate for children experiencing abuse and neglect, raised more than $570,000 at its annual fundraising gala, CASA Cares: An Evening of Giving for New Hampshire’s Children, held on Friday, May 3. This exceeds CASA of New Hampshire previous CASA Cares fundraising record of $550,000 raised in 2023.

Presented by Novocure, the event was held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Downtown. This year, CASA Cares featured a live auction, wine-and-spirits grab, and jewelry raffle courtesy of Day’s Jewelers.

“The incredible support and generosity that were on display at CASA Cares demonstrates that so many folks from all over the state truly understand and value CASA’s life-changing work,” said CASA of New Hampshire President and CEO Marcia (Marty) Sink.

The evening’s speakers included Sink, former CASA of NH Board Co-chair and current Advisory Council member Amy Coveno, and Devin Oot, manager of community and government relations at Novocure. Guests also heard from U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas, who shared powerful remarks about the valuable impact CASA has on children and youth throughout the Granite State.

Auctioneer John Terrio entertained the crowd as they bid on live auction items, including luxury vacations, tickets to “Late Night With Seth Meyers” plus a meet-and-greet with Seth Meyers, a gorgeous necklace donated by renowned jeweler Marla Aaron, glamping and ATV packages courtesy of Bear Rock Adventures and Alpine Garden, camping equipment from NEMO, and more.

Audience members also heard from former CASA youth and now current CASA advocate Justice Ohanasian, who shared her personal story in a deeply moving portion of the event.

The money raised during the event helps CASA work toward its goal of having an advocate available for every child New Hampshire who is involved in the child protection system.

Since 1989, CASA of New Hampshire has provided a voice for children who have experienced abuse and neglect in New Hampshire by empowering a statewide network of volunteers to advocate on their behalf so they can thrive in safe, permanent homes. These advocates are trained in trauma-informed best-interests advocacy, and get to know the children and the important people in those children’s lives. CASA of NH advocates are in a unique position to make detailed recommendations in court so judges are able to make informed decisions on what’s in a child’s best interests.

CASA of NH Welcomes 22 New Volunteer Advocates

The second training session of 2024 was completed in early April, and CASA of New Hampshire is excited to welcome 22 new volunteer advocates from across the state. The training, which took place in March and April, was held virtually. Please join us in congratulating Marsha, Julie, Kathleen, John G., Brian, Suzie, Ellen, Sheree, Marianne, Bonnie, Bob, John M., Cathy, Al, Justice, Chera, Cory, Megan, Buffi, Colleen, Tom and Julianne!

CASA of NH has achieved great success with our interactive and comprehensive virtual training format. However, recognizing the desire for in-person options, two live trainings are scheduled in Concord for this spring and summer. We are currently accepting applications for those sessions beginning on April 30 and July 10.

Those interested in applying can do so here, or please join us for a virtual information session to learn more about what it means to become an advocate. Information sessions are held twice a month and offer a chance to ask questions of both CASA of NH staff members and advocates.

 

CASA of New Hampshire Raises More Than $51,000 at the 5th On Tap for CASA Event

 

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire is happy to announce another successful On Tap for CASA event held at New England’s Tap House Grille in Hooksett. Begun in 2017, On Tap for CASA is a 10-hour barstool marathon where teams of 5-10 compete in games and friendly competition to be crowned either the top point-getter and/or top fundraising team. Prizes were given out to this year’s winners – first-time event sponsor Gosselin Insurance (most points) and Boardroom Brews (top fundraiser).

Additional sponsors include New England’s Tap House Grille, which has supported and hosted this event each year, New Hampshire Magazine, Gosselin Insurance, Amoskeag Beverages and New Hampshire Distributors.

This is the fifth On Tap for CASA event – the event did not occur in 2020-2022 due to the pandemic.

CASA of NH Graduates 26 New Advocates

The first training of the new year is complete, and CASA of New Hampshire is thrilled to welcome 26 new volunteer advocates from across the state. The training, which took place in January and February, was held virtually. Please join us in congratulating Nadine, Dale, Mila, Kayla, Amy, Andrea, Kari, Sarah, Janet, Rob, Debbie, Jill, Jay, Debbie (there are two Debbies in this class), Porsche, Shannon, Sue, Ken, Jane, Danielle, Heidi, Frumie, Brenda, Annette, Maggie and Tara.

CASA of NH has achieved great success with our interactive and comprehensive virtual training format. However, recognizing the desire for in-person options, two live trainings are scheduled in Concord for this spring and summer. We are currently accepting applications for those sessions beginning on April 30 and July 10.

Those interested in applying can do so here, or please join us for a virtual information session to learn more about what it means to become an advocate. Information sessions are held twice a month and offer a chance to ask questions of both CASA of NH staff members and advocates.

Bank of New Hampshire Selects CASA of NH to Receive $12,500 from Elan Charitable Giving Program

The Elan Charitable Giving program recently announced the distribution of $375,000 in donations, benefiting 30 communities nationwide. Each $12,500 gift was given to a charity selected by an Elan Credit Card partner. Bank of New Hampshire, recognized for its unwavering commitment to community support, was selected as an Elan partner for the program. This contribution was designated to support Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire, aligning with BNH’s mission to build brighter futures.

CASA provides a voice for children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect by empowering a statewide network of trained volunteers to advocate on their behalf so they can thrive in safe, permanent homes.

“We’re excited that a financial institution in New Hampshire was selected to facilitate awarding these funds to a worthy organization like CASA”, said Eric Carter, Senior Vice President – Digital Solutions & Innovation Officer. “BNH aligns itself with partners who have the same philanthropic values as we do and as a result, this contribution will help provide for a brighter future for New Hampshire’s youth.”

Since the launch of the Elan Charitable Giving program in 2022, $1.7 million has been distributed to 122 charities. Elan employees have also volunteered 225 hours of their time to further the impact of these gifts. Additional volunteer events with the selected partners and charities will take place in 2024.

“We’re delighted to expand our reach this year to the communities of 15 credit union and 15 community bank partners,” said John Owens, Elan Credit Card General Manager. “From food insecurity and housing to animal shelters and youth arts programming, the Elan Charitable Giving program continues to support the needs of our partner’s communities.”

To learn more about each organization and the impact Elan is making in communities through its charitable giving initiative, visit www.elancharitablegiving.com.

Bank of New Hampshire, founded in 1831 provides deposit, lending and wealth management products and services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire and southern Maine. With 21 banking offices and assets exceeding $2 billion, Bank of New Hampshire is the oldest and one of the largest independent banks in the state. Bank of New Hampshire is a mutual organization, focused on the success of the bank’s customers, communities and employees, rather than stockholders. For more information, call 1.800.832.0912 or visit BNH.Bank.

About Elan Credit Card

Elan Credit Card partners with financial institutions to grow their business through our outsourced credit card program, mortgage solutions, and all-in-one merchant processing platform, talech®. Our dedication to our partners, growth philosophy, and investment in technology has made us a leader in the industry since 1968. Learn more about our innovative solutions for consumer and business accounts of all sizes. For more information, visit www.elanfinancialservices.com/credit-card.

CASA of New Hampshire Graduated 144 New Advocates in 2023

CASA of New Hampshire, a nonprofit that trains volunteer guardians ad litem to advocate for children experiencing abuse and neglect, graduated 144 new advocates in calendar year 2023.

Last year, CASA of NH held virtual, in-person and debuted a new format of training that combined a virtual class with guided study on participants’ own time.

Recruitment remains strong entering 2024, with a full virtual training class of 40 running from January 17 through February 21. Future trainings include a virtual class beginning March 6, and two live, in-person classes in Concord beginning on April 30 and July 10 respectively.

Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to attend a virtual information session, but are welcome to apply at any time. Information sessions are a great way for people to learn more about CASA of NH and what it means to be an advocate, with the chance to ask both staff and a current advocate their questions. Sign up for an information session at https://casanh.org/virtual-info-sessions or apply at https://casanh.org/apply.

Seth Meyers Performs a Special Fundraiser for CASA of NH and the Granite State Children’s Alliance

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New Hampshire’s own Seth Meyers returned home on November 4 for a special stand-up performance at the SNHU Arena in support of our state’s children. Seth’s first appearance in 2018 for CASA of NH and the Granite State Children’s Alliance was a huge success, and this recent show was just as impactful. More than 100 VIP guests were treated to a special pre-show reception and meet-and-greet with Seth, and a total of 2,120 people attended the show, all of whom who enjoyed a night of laughter and fun in support of vulnerable children throughout the state. Proceeds from the event will aid both organizations in their missions to help more children heal and thrive.

About CASA of New Hampshire

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire provides a voice for New Hampshire children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect by empowering a statewide network of trained volunteers to advocate on their behalf so they can thrive in safe, permanent homes. Since its founding in 1989, CASA of NH has advocated for nearly 12,000 children in court, giving them a chance at a better future.

In fiscal year 2023, CASA of NH volunteers served 1,549 children throughout the state, collectively donating 87,585 hours and making more than 13,000 visits to children. These volunteers are everyday people who come from all backgrounds – experience in law or social work is not required. If you have the heart to help, we can teach you the rest. For anyone interested in learning more about volunteering, CASA of NH offers virtual information sessions twice a month. These are a wonderful opportunity to listen to or talk with both staff and current volunteers. Visit www.casanh.org to register for an information session or to learn more about CASA of NH.

About the Granite State Children’s Alliance

The Granite State Children’s Alliance and The Network of New Hampshire’s Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) served 1,999 child abuse survivors last year. For many of those children and their families, their forensic interview at the CAC is the incredibly challenging but crucial first step in healing. The CAC model, is a data-driven, evidence-supported approach, defensible in court and deemed best practice for child abuse investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice and New Hampshire’s Attorney General’s Office. CACs have been at the forefront in intervening and preventing child abuse and child exploitation for over 20 years in New Hampshire.

New Hampshire CACs also lay the groundwork for next steps in the healing process, making referrals for specialized behavioral health and medical services, and following up with families to offer support and ensure child victims are receiving the care they need. The network is working collaboratively to develop and expand its service model to include trauma-informed mental health and specialized medical services onsite, reducing barriers to treatment that many families experience. Children who report abuse in New Hampshire have more access to support services than ever, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Visit www.cac-nh.org to learn more.