Meet 2026 Volunteer of the Year Nominees!

Each year, Georgia CASA’s Awards of Excellence recognize individuals whose dedication, compassion, and advocacy make a lasting difference in the lives of children experiencing foster care. We are proud to celebrate the remarkable nominees for the 2026 Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of the Year Award. 

Chrissy Denmark 

Enotah CASA 

Since joining Enotah CASA in 2023, Chrissy Denmark has made an extraordinary impact in a short period of time. Advocating on three cases, including a current case involving multiple children and complex challenges such as domestic violence, substance abuse, and difficult family dynamics, Chrissy brings steadiness, professionalism, and full presence to every situation. She maintains regular communication with placements, family members, therapists, and school personnel, attends every meeting, and ensures no detail of a case is ever overlooked. 

Chrissy’s professional background sets her advocacy apart in a remarkable way. After decades serving children as a teacher, instructional leader, and principal, primarily in Title I schools, she went on to work nationally with the National Center for Education and the Economy, supporting education systems across multiple states. That depth of experience gives her a unique ability to assess educational needs, collaborate with school systems, and advocate effectively for the services that help each child succeed. Her professional insight, combined with her genuine empathy, allows her to build trusting relationships with children that ensure they feel heard, supported, and valued. 

Within Enotah CASA, Chrissy quietly sets a high standard through her work ethic, organization, and unwavering commitment, inspiring fellow volunteers to approach their own advocacy with the same level of care and integrity. Her lifelong dedication to children, and the credibility she brings to every interaction, strengthens Enotah CASA’s presence throughout the community. Chrissy is a compassionate, experienced, and steadfast advocate, and exactly the kind of volunteer who changes children’s lives. 

Brenda Gray 

Advo-Kids CASA 

In just over a year as a CASA volunteer, Brenda Gray has already made a profound difference in the life of a teenage girl who has experienced years of abuse, neglect, and repeated placement changes. Dedicating 20 to 30 hours each month, Brenda has become a steady, trusted presence. They spend time sewing, cooking, creating art, and building the kind of relationship that helps a young person believe in herself again. 

Brenda’s advocacy goes well beyond weekly visits. She attends every meeting, researches resources, and holds stakeholders accountable to ensure her CASA child receives the support she deserves. Recognizing the toll that frequent placement changes had taken on the child’s education, Brenda wove reading and learning activities into their time together, helping her build confidence and develop hope for the future. 

Most powerfully, Brenda has engaged state representatives and the Office of the Child Advocate to bring critical attention to concerns affecting the case. In doing so, she has shown a young person who has known mostly instability what it truly means to have a caring adult who shows up every single time. 

Sally Helm 

Savannah CASA 

When children in foster care see Sally Helm, they don’t just walk toward her, they run. That moment of joy and trust captures everything Sally has built over more than five years of service. Since being sworn in as a CASA volunteer in December 2020, she has advocated for 12 children and counting, becoming a steady and beloved presence for the families she serves. 

Sally’s advocacy is as powerful as it is compassionate. She produces thoughtful, thorough court reports, ensures critical information is brought forward, and shows up for families in moments of crisis, not just to check a box, but to truly listen, encourage, and provide stability. Her ability to connect with everyone involved, children, parents, judges, and community partners alike, reflects her deep belief that every family has strengths, and every child deserves someone in their corner. 

Beyond her casework, Sally has raised more than $30,000 for CASA through community fundraising, mentors fellow volunteers, and has helped create a more welcoming environment for children in the courthouse. And when cases close, her care doesn’t end, she continues to cheer families on long after reunification, proving that advocacy built on real relationships lasts. 

Johanne Higdon 

Henry County CASA 

In just two years as a CASA volunteer, Johanne Higdon has proven herself to be an extraordinary advocate. Serving three children across two complex cases, she approaches every aspect of her role with exceptional care, staying closely connected with the children she serves, gathering the information needed to understand their experiences, and delivering thoughtful, well-informed recommendations to the court. 

What sets Johanne apart is her rare ability to combine persistence with genuine compassion. She steps forward during critical moments to seek answers, clarify concerns, and ensure that the children behind each case are never forgotten. Through grief, uncertainty, and major life changes, Johanne has remained a consistent and calming presence, reminding children that they are not alone. 

Johanne is also a leader within Henry County CASA, serving as a team captain and actively supporting fellow volunteers. Her commitment to pursuing additional training and strengthening the program reflects the same dedication she brings to every child she advocates for. Johanne listens carefully, advocates courageously, and proves through her actions that every child matters. 

Jane Johnson 

Rockdale County CASA 

In less than two years, Jane Johnson has demonstrated the courage and commitment of a truly exceptional CASA advocate. Since being sworn in, she has remained devoted to one complex family, walking alongside four children through a challenging journey toward safety, stability, and permanency. Her consistency, professionalism, and tireless preparation make her a trusted voice for the children she serves. 

What truly sets Jane apart is her fearlessness. She is willing to ask the hard questions and advocate for what she believes is right, even when her recommendations differ from others involved in the case. She gathers information from professionals, listens carefully, and brings thoughtful, well-grounded advocacy to every conversation. Her steady presence has helped children move toward permanency in meaningful ways, including supporting one child as he built a relationship with a parent he had never known. 

Jane’s impact extends far beyond her assigned case. She mentors fellow volunteers, actively recruits others to the cause, and builds community partnerships that strengthen the affiliate. Her advocacy is a powerful reminder that one person’s willingness to speak up can create lasting change in a child’s life. 

Patricia Johnson 

Coastal Plain CASA 

In her very first year as a CASA volunteer, Patricia Johnson has already made a remarkable impact. Immediately after being sworn in, she accepted a case involving three children, two with special needs, and has embraced every challenge with unwavering dedication. Despite the children being placed in different locations across the state, Patricia makes it a priority to visit each of them regularly, and the excitement they show when she arrives speaks volumes about the bonds she has built. 

Patricia’s advocacy extends in every direction. She collaborates closely with behavioral health professionals, caregivers, and service providers to ensure each child’s needs are fully understood. She has also offered encouragement and support to the children’s mother, helping her access rehabilitation services and navigate difficult circumstances. Her detailed court reports ensure that judges have the information they need to make decisions in the children’s best interests. 

Beyond her cases, Patricia is a passionate ambassador for the CASA mission. As a local business owner, she raises awareness in her community and supports fundraising efforts that strengthen services for children in foster care. Through her compassion, initiative, and commitment, Patricia exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated CASA advocate. 

Allison Lee 

Hall-Dawson CASA 

Since joining Hall-Dawson CASA in March 2024, Allison Lee has taken on six cases involving eleven children, and she approaches every single one with warmth, intention, and an unwavering focus on making each child feel seen and valued. She readily accepts complex cases, navigates difficult circumstances with confidence, and never shies away from doing what it takes to make a difference. 

Allison’s impact was evident from her very first case. During her initial visit, she identified serious concerns affecting the children’s safety and immediately worked to ensure those concerns were addressed. Her persistence and clarity helped lead to a safer outcome and the children’s reunification with their mother. Whether building trust across language barriers or advocating for a young person’s educational needs, Allison brings the same thoughtful strength to every challenge. 

Beyond her casework, Allison mentors new volunteers, shares her experiences during trainings, and helps raise awareness in the community. As her supervisor put it: “She doesn’t just volunteer her time, she gives her heart.” Allison is a shining example of what courageous, compassionate advocacy looks like. 

Susan McCullough 

Juvenile Court of Cobb County/CASA 

Since becoming a CASA volunteer in 2023, Susan McCullough has provided unwavering advocacy for two sisters with complex needs, serving as a constant source of support through years of uncertainty and change. Her dedication has been especially evident in her work with one child who has spent more than 1,000 days in foster care. When that child achieved permanency through guardianship, Susan celebrated alongside her. When tragedy struck and the child re-entered care, Susan immediately stepped back in, ensuring she once again had a trusted adult fighting for her. 

Susan’s professionalism is exceptional. She attends every court hearing, meeting, and visit; tracks services meticulously; and maintains detailed records that judges, attorneys, and child welfare professionals have come to rely on. Whether a child was placed nearby, in a hotel hours away, or across state lines to access specialized services, Susan showed up. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, she dedicated more than 65 volunteer hours and traveled over 1,100 miles on behalf of the children she serves. 

Susan actively participates in conferences, trainings, and fundraising efforts that strengthen the CASA mission. Her dedication, reliability, and willingness to go wherever she is needed exemplify the very best of CASA advocacy. 

Dawn Carter McDonald 

Gwinnett County CASA 

For more than 13 years, Dawn Carter McDonald has embodied the heart of CASA advocacy, making her the longest-serving CASA volunteer in Gwinnett County CASA’s history. Throughout her tenure, she has taken on three complex cases, often involving teenagers and sibling groups navigating significant challenges. No matter how difficult the circumstances, Dawn has never wavered. She shows up, because she believes every child deserves someone who will be there through life’s ups and downs. 

One of the most powerful testaments to Dawn’s impact came while she was advocating for a teenager who had experienced multiple placement disruptions and time in youth detention centers. When she arrived for a visit, the youth simply said, “I knew you would come.” Those four words reflect the trust Dawn had built, and the kind of stability she represents for the children she serves. 

Dawn’s commitment doesn’t end when a case closes. She has continued supporting the youth she served, mentors new CASA volunteers, shares resources, and represents Gwinnett County CASA throughout the community. Her service is a lasting reminder that a CASA volunteer’s greatest gift is often simply being the person who keeps showing up. 

Laelah McEntire 

Chattahoochee CASA 

When Laelah McEntire became a CASA volunteer in 2023, she wondered whether her age and limited experience with children might be barriers to success. She quickly discovered they were not. From her very first case, two brothers who had experienced abuse, neglect, and significant instability, Laelah brought consistent visits, school involvement, and close collaboration with service providers to ensure the boys’ voices were heard and their needs met. After more than a year of dedicated advocacy, the brothers were reunited with their father. 

On her second case, Laelah drew on everything she had learned, focusing on educational support, counseling services, and the unique emotional needs of each child. Through every placement disruption and family challenge, she remained a steady presence, always focused on ensuring each child felt seen, heard, and supported. 

Known for her reliability, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit, Laelah has contributed more than 190 volunteer hours and driven over 835 miles on behalf of the children she serves. Her transformation from uncertain newcomer to trusted, confident advocate is a powerful testament to what passion and dedication can accomplish. 

Jack McLaughlin 

Northeast Georgia CASA 

For the past four and a half years, Jack McLaughlin has exemplified the heart of CASA advocacy through his compassion, humility, and genuine belief in the potential of every child. Serving as an advocate for six children, Jack leads with patience and kindness, building relationships rooted in trust and encouraging children to recognize their own strengths, whatever their current circumstances. 

Jack is also a passionate advocate for families. He believes in keeping families together whenever possible and consistently supports parents as they work toward completing their case plans. In one recent case, he supported a child’s journey to reunification after more than two years in care, and when he stood before the court to share the child’s progress, the pride and affection he felt were impossible to miss. These are the relationships Jack builds: deep, lasting, and transformative. 

Beyond his direct advocacy, Jack is a trusted leader within Northeast Georgia CASA, sharing wisdom with new volunteers, earning the respect of judges and DFCS partners, and contributing to his community in countless ways. He reminds us that advocacy is not just about speaking for children, it’s about believing in them, standing beside families, and showing up with heart every step of the way. 

Lori Mims 

Floyd County CASA 

In just over a year of service, Lori Mims has already demonstrated what it means to be an exceptional CASA advocate. From her very first case, she stepped into a complicated situation and quickly became a consistent, reliable voice for a child who needed safety, stability, and a path toward permanency. Her advocacy is rooted in careful listening, thoughtful recommendations, and a deep commitment to putting the child’s best interests first. 

Lori balanced compassion with courage throughout her case. Even when her perspective differed from the prevailing plan, she remained respectful, engaged, and persistent, never losing sight of what the child truly needed. Her steady presence helped move the case forward and ultimately supported a path toward the loving, permanent home the child deserved. 

Beyond the courtroom, Lori is a passionate ambassador for CASA in her community, sharing the mission at local events and helping raise awareness about children in foster care. Quiet by nature, her dedication speaks volumes. Lori is a powerful reminder that one committed advocate can bring out the best for a child experiencing foster care. 

Mark Najjar 

Forsyth CASA 

Since becoming a CASA volunteer in September 2022, Mark Najjar has shown what it means to be a dedicated and compassionate advocate. He has taken on five cases, including two that remain active, demonstrating a consistent willingness to step forward and provide a caring, committed advocate for children who need it most. 

Mark’s greatest strength is the depth of the relationships he builds. He takes the time to truly know the children and families he serves, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and supported throughout their journey. In the courtroom, he advocates with confidence and purpose; outside of it, he continues to strengthen the CASA mission through community involvement and outreach efforts that help others understand the importance of advocacy. 

Mark’s service reflects the very best of what CASA stands for, showing up with dedication, speaking up with purpose, and standing beside children when they need someone most. His passion and reliability have made a lasting difference for the children and families he serves. 

Max and Cheryl Parrott 

Northwest Georgia CASA 

For fourteen years, Max and Cheryl Parrott have been a remarkable force for children and families in Gordon County, together and separately advocating for more than 30 children, logging over 100 volunteer hours in 2025 alone. Their reputation speaks for itself: judges have personally requested them for cases, DFCS case managers light up when the Parrotts are assigned, and community partners across the county know them as two of the most trusted advocates in the region. 

What sets Max and Cheryl apart is the extraordinary humanity they bring to every case. They accept difficult cases others might hesitate to take, and approach every family with dignity and respect, never losing sight of the children at the center of it all. Max has driven around searching for unhoused parents to encourage them to engage in their case plans, traveled out of state to help a father prepare his home for reunification, and been called simply to sit on a front porch with a child after a hard day at school. Cheryl has spent countless hours offering calm reassurance in waiting rooms, brought families practical tools like chore charts and routine-building resources, and received calls from providers whose clients, from cases long since closed, still name her as their support person. 

Beyond their casework, the Parrotts volunteer throughout their community, speak at CASA recruitment events, meet individually with prospective volunteers, and serve alongside neighbors at local festivals and their Voluntary Action Center. Even through significant personal challenges in recent years, they have never wavered in their commitment to their CASA families. Gordon County is stronger, kinder, and better because of Max and Cheryl, and their dedication is a profound example of what it means to truly show up for children. 

Heather Radford 

Paulding County CASA 

For four years, Heather Radford has brought compassion, persistence, and integrity to her work as a CASA advocate. Serving nine children across three cases, she approaches every assignment with thorough preparation and a commitment to finding what is truly best for each child. Through her advocacy, children have found permanency, accessed critical resources, and experienced the stability that every child deserves. 

What makes Heather’s service especially meaningful is the trust she earns. Even in moments of uncertainty and transition, children look to Heather as a steady source of support. When given the opportunity to speak for themselves, the youth she advocates for often choose Heather to represent their wishes, because they know she will listen, and they know she will fight for them. 

Heather’s commitment goes well beyond what is required. When a former case returned to care, she stepped back in without hesitation, because she knew the child needed someone familiar and trustworthy. She continues to support youth even after their formal case involvement has ended, a testament to the depth of her compassion. Heather Radford reminds us that one consistent, caring adult can truly change the trajectory of a child’s life. 

Tina Rhodes 

CASA of Polk & Haralson 

Since being sworn in as a CASA volunteer in May 2024, Tina Rhodes has made a remarkable impact in a short period of time. Serving four cases involving nine children, she approaches every assignment with care, professionalism, and a deep understanding of how much relationships matter. Tina builds trust with children, families, foster families, and case managers alike, always keeping the child’s best interests at the center of every decision. 

Tina’s advocacy has helped children and families move toward real, lasting outcomes, with three of her cases reaching closure through reunification. In one case, when reunification with parents was not possible, Tina worked diligently to secure a permanent and loving home with a grandparent, advocating every step of the way until the child had the stability they deserved. 

Beyond the courtroom, Tina actively identifies resources and community supports to help children thrive, from educational opportunities to essential services. Her willingness to go above and beyond ensures that no child falls through the cracks. Tina embodies the CASA mission: listen, advocate, and stand beside a child every step of the way. 

Liliana Rivera 

Murray/Whitfield CASA 

Since becoming a CASA volunteer in December 2021, Liliana Rivera has dedicated herself to ensuring children in foster care feel seen, heard, and supported. Serving as an advocate for six children, she takes the time to understand each child’s unique story and builds meaningful relationships with children, families, case managers, and community partners, bringing patience, positivity, and steady commitment to every situation. 

One of the most meaningful chapters of Liliana’s service came as she supported a family through a long and complex journey toward adoption. During a time marked by uncertainty and trauma, she remained a consistent source of encouragement. When the children reached permanency through adoption by their grandmother, Liliana stood beside them as they celebrated a future filled with love and belonging. 

What makes Liliana’s service so special is that her care doesn’t end when a case closes. She builds relationships that last, continuing to offer encouragement and support long after her formal role as advocate has ended. A passionate ambassador for the CASA mission, Liliana Rivera represents the heart of this work: showing up with compassion, advocating with purpose, and reminding children that they are never alone. 

Dr. Eve R. Sauer 

CASA of the Appalachian Judicial Circuit 

For nearly five years, Dr. Eve R. Sauer has been a dedicated and tireless CASA advocate, serving 14 children across eight cases and currently managing three active ones. Her advocacy has helped children achieve reunification, guardianship, and adoption, creating lasting change for the families she serves. Known for her diligence, compassion, and extraordinary attention to detail, Dr. Sauer consistently goes above and beyond, including reviewing more than 1,300 pages of medical records to ensure she could fully advocate for an infant’s best interests. 

Drawing on her background as an educator, Dr. Sauer builds meaningful relationships with children through patience, encouragement, and shared activities like reading. She fosters strong partnerships with families, foster parents, and professionals, earning the trust and respect of everyone involved. Her commitment to preserving family connections even led her to request assignment to a newborn sibling already connected to one of her cases, ensuring continuity and support for the entire family. 

Even while facing significant challenges, Dr. Sauer has remained steadfast in her advocacy, inspiring everyone around her through her resilience and grace. She actively supports Appalachian CASA through fundraising, community outreach, and volunteer engagement. Her service is a testament to the compassion and perseverance at the very heart of the CASA mission. 

Mary Starck 

DeKalb County CASA Program 

For more than a decade, Mary Starck has been a cornerstone of CASA advocacy in DeKalb County. Since being sworn-in in 2013, she has served 21 children across 14 cases, guiding children and families toward outcomes including reunification, adoption, guardianship, and permanency. Her thorough preparation, strong communication, and child-centered approach have earned her the trust and respect of everyone in the child welfare system. 

Mary’s advocacy has touched children at every stage of life. She has supported children recovering from severe abuse, championed stable guardianship placements, and served as a steadfast presence for premature twins she first met in the NICU after they were abandoned at birth, remaining by their side through every step of their journey toward adoption. Her commitment to each child is total, personal, and enduring. 

A former Volunteer of the Year and two-time Volunteer of the Month, Mary also serves as a mentor and ambassador for the CASA mission, speaking with new volunteer classes, participating in CASA events and conferences, and recruiting future advocates in her community. Through 12 years of service, she has changed the lives of countless children while inspiring a new generation of advocates.  

Gary Stevenson 

Alcovy CASA 

For nearly 20 years, Gary Stevenson has been a steadfast advocate for children experiencing foster care, bringing compassion, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to every case he serves. Sworn in as an Alcovy CASA volunteer in 2006, Gary is a U.S. Army veteran and retired emergency management professional whose thorough investigations and thoughtful recommendations have shaped critical decisions about children’s futures and earned the deep respect of judges, attorneys, and CASA staff alike. 

Gary has made a particular commitment to advocating for adolescent boys, serving not just as a CASA volunteer but as a mentor. Through his honesty, steady presence, and example of professional success, he helps young people envision new possibilities for their futures. The impact of that trust is perhaps best captured by one foster mother’s observation: simply mentioning “Mr. Gary” was enough to put two anxious brothers immediately at ease. 

Whether mentoring new volunteers, supporting holiday programs, or showing up for a child who needs him, Gary approaches every opportunity with purpose and urgency. His belief that every child deserves a consistent adult in their corner has made a lasting difference in countless lives, and continues to exemplify the very best of CASA advocacy. 

Betty Stewart 

Atlanta CASA 

Since becoming a CASA volunteer in 2019, Betty Stewart has provided steadfast advocacy, compassion, and wisdom to children and families navigating the foster care system. Over six years, she has served three children through complex cases, helping achieve outcomes including reunification and permanency while ensuring each child had a consistent, caring voice in their corner. Known for her reliability and exceptional writing, Betty produces thorough court reports and recommendations that meaningfully inform the decisions affecting children’s lives. 

Betty’s compassion extends well beyond the courtroom. She builds genuine trust with children, parents, foster families, and professionals alike, balancing empathy and professionalism in a way that creates the strong relationships that lead to positive outcomes. Her dedication to ongoing learning is reflected in years of continued training focused on advocacy, education, permanency, and child well-being. 

Perhaps the most inspiring testament to Betty’s commitment is this: despite not having a personal vehicle, she relies on public transportation to attend meetings, visit children, and personally deliver holiday gifts to children on her caseload. She is a familiar, beloved face at Atlanta CASA events and a consistent source of encouragement for staff, volunteers, and community partners. Through her consistency, generosity, and heart for service, Betty Stewart is a powerful example of the difference one dedicated volunteer can make.  

Wendy Whiddon 

Piedmont CASA 

For eight years, Wendy Whiddon has demonstrated the very best of CASA advocacy through her compassion, patience, and unwavering commitment to children. Since joining Piedmont CASA in 2017, she has served six cases involving eight children, showing up consistently, advocating thoughtfully, and reminding every child she serves that they are not alone and that someone believes in them. 

For nearly seven of those years, Wendy has walked alongside one young person as they navigated the challenges of growing into adulthood without a traditional support system. Through every transition and obstacle, Wendy has remained present, offering encouragement, practical help, and a listening ear. Because of Wendy, this young person has not just had an advocate; they have a trusted, stable presence who has become part of their chosen family. 

Beyond her direct advocacy, Wendy continues to strengthen Piedmont CASA by supporting new volunteers, sharing her experience, and encouraging others to join the mission. Her eight years of service reflect a simple but profound truth: showing up, again and again, can change everything. Wendy embodies the heart of the CASA mission, a steady voice, a compassionate advocate, and a reminder to every child that they matter. 

Congratulations to all of the 2026 Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of the Year nominees. 

The stories shared here reflect the many ways CASA volunteers make an impact. Some advocate for a single child, while others have served dozens over the years. Some drive hundreds of miles to maintain connections, while others spend countless hours helping families navigate challenges and celebrate successes. What they all share is an unwavering commitment to ensuring that children experiencing foster care have someone who will show up, speak up, and stand beside them. 

We are grateful for these outstanding volunteers and for every CASA advocate serving children across Georgia. Together, they bring hope, consistency, and purpose to children who need it most.