Our Volunteers

A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of an abused or neglected child involved in juvenile court deprivation proceedings. The CASA volunteer gathers information about the child’s situation, attends court proceedings and makes a recommendation to the judge so that the judge has the information to make a decision about the child’s future. A CASA volunteer protects a child’s right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family.

Become a Volunteer

Happy Volunteerversary! May 2026

Isabel Hester - 1yr
Shanika Crane - 1yr
Shannon Ferguson - 1yr
Natalie Marshall - 7yrs
Laurie Schlag - 2yrs
Chandra Wimbush - 7yrs

Kwaiwatta Hawk - 1yr
Khaia Smith - 1yr
Bernardean Broadous - 1yr
Jennifer Potts - 1yr
Peggy Shriver - 1yr
Onaje Dhamana - Rest in Love; 7yrs May 30th

Volunteer Spotlight - May 2026

Tristian Gassoway

From the very beginning of her service, Tristian has demonstrated an exceptional level of compassion, dedication, and initiative. Stepping into a complex case involving a medically fragile child, she approached the role with empathy, urgency, and a deep commitment to understanding the child’s unique needs. Though new to the role, Tristian has truly hit the ground running, building connections, staying attentive to critical details, and ensuring the child’s voice is represented with care and consistency. Her presence has already made a meaningful difference, offering stability and advocacy where it is needed most. Tristian exemplifies the heart of volunteer service, reminding us that impact is not measured by time, but by the depth of care and commitment shown.

Evelyn Nguyen

Although newer to the CASA volunteer role, Evelyn quickly stepped into advocacy with confidence, warmth, and a strong desire to make a difference. She has embraced every aspect of the role with thoughtfulness and care, showing a natural ability to connect with others while remaining focused on the needs of the children she serves. Evelyn consistently brings a positive and dependable presence to her advocacy. We are so appreciative of the energy, dedication, and heart she brings to CASA.

Taylor Ponder

From the very beginning of her service, Taylor has demonstrated an incredible level of dedication, compassion, and commitment to advocating for the child and family she serves. She consistently approaches each interaction with empathy, professionalism, and a genuine desire to ensure the child feels seen, heard, and supported. Whether navigating challenges, building relationships, or collaborating with professionals, she continues to show reliability, care, and a strong sense of purpose in her role. Her work serves as a powerful reminder of the difference one caring adult can make in the life of a child.

Allison Sullivan

Since becoming a CASA volunteer, Allison has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving with empathy, integrity, and compassion. She consistently shows up with a willingness to listen, learn, and advocate in ways that prioritize the best interests of the child. We are incredibly thankful for the dedication, heart, and professionalism she brings to this work. Her advocacy continues to make a lasting difference and reflects the true mission and spirit of CASA.

Delphia Young

Delphia was sworn in on August 19, 2019, and has dedicated nearly seven years of service as an Atlanta CASA volunteer. During this time, she has served on four separate cases. Delphia has been a strong educational advocate for the youth she serves. She has been instrumental in supporting the youth on her most recent case, who is preparing to graduate from high school next week, helping ensure the youth had the encouragement, guidance, and resources needed to reach this important milestone.

Lynn Thomason

Lynn was sworn in on June 17, 2020, and has contributed nearly six years of service as an Atlanta CASA volunteer, serving on five cases during this time. Lynn is recognized for her continued dedication to the children and families she serves and for her ongoing commitment to advocacy through Atlanta CASA.

Quatresa Triplett

Quatresa was sworn in on August 21, 2020, and has served nearly six years as an Atlanta CASA volunteer, faithfully advocating on the same case since being sworn in. Throughout her service, Quatresa has remained a consistent source of support and advocacy for the siblings on her case, celebrating the closure and permanency achieved for one sibling while continuing to advocate for the second sibling as they work toward permanency. Quatresa also stands out for her advocacy and support of LGBTQ youth, helping ensure that the youth she serves feel seen, affirmed, and supported.

Rena Coleman

Rena was sworn in on November 5, 2020, and has dedicated over five years of service as an Atlanta CASA volunteer, advocating on three cases during this time. Rena is recognized for her strong relationship-building skills and her advocacy in court, as well as her commitment to seeing cases through to permanency for the children she serves. On her most recent case, Rena advocated for a sibling group of four who achieved permanency through adoption on National Adoption Day, which was a meaningful milestone that reflects her dedication and impact as a volunteer advocate.

Bidemi Animashaun

Bidemi was sworn in on March 11, 2024, and has served for two years as an Atlanta CASA volunteer, working with the same child throughout her service. Bidemi is celebrated for her thoughtful and well-rounded advocacy, consistently considering the full scope of the youth’s needs and ensuring that they have a voice in court.