<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=22t5nI_0vjlysfs00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=22t5nI_0vjlysfs00" width="640" height="448" ><figcaption>Pictured at the Georgia CASA Conference Awards Ceremony are (l to r) Jen King, executive&nbsp;director of Georgia CASA; Elaine Odom, executive director at Ocmulgee CASA; and Lauren Hyatt, Georgia CASA board member. Contributed photo</figcaption></figure>Ocmulgee Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Inc., serving the largest geographic judicial circuit east of the Mississippi River that includes Baldwin, Greene, Hancock, Jasper, Jones, Morgan, Putnam and Wilkinson counties, has received the 2024 Established Program Award of Excellence from Georgia CASA. The award was officially received at the Georgia CASA Conference in Atlanta on Aug. 24.Boasting a 75% volunteer retention rate, Ocmulgee CASA creates a supportive family atmosphere through regular meet-ups and appreciation events for its CASA volunteers. The “Champions for Children” campaign has significantly increased community engagement and awareness. Financial stability is ensured through diverse funding sources, including an annual signature sponsored golf tournament. Strong partnerships with the Department of Family and Children Service (DFCS) and the court system enhance Ocmulgee CASA’s impact. With a combined 40 years of staff experience, Ocmulgee CASA exemplifies leadership and commitment within the statewide CASA network.In the 2023 fiscal year, Ocmulgee CASA engaged 65 CASA volunteers and served 178 children. In the last year, Ocmulgee CASA increased its active CASA volunteers by 14% and children served by 33%, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to community presence and outreach. Actively participating in local events Ocmulgee CASA has broadened its reach and attracted new volunteers. Active community involvement and a robust social media presence further amplify the mission and visibility in the communities served.Ocmulgee CASA’s collaboration with DFCS and the judicial system underscores its excellence.“A CASA [volunteer] is always a good idea,” said Juvenile Court Judge Kelli Rutherford.Ocmulgee CASA’s strategic initiatives, community support and strong volunteer base highlight its status as a beacon of excellence within the statewide CASA network.</div></body>

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Ocmulgee CASA receives state Excellence Award

Ocmulgee Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Inc., serving the largest geographic judicial circuit east of the Mississippi River that includes Baldwin, Greene, Hancock, Jasper, Jones, Morgan, Putnam and Wilkinson counties, has received the 2024 Established Program Award of Excellence from Georgia CASA. The award was officially received at the Georgia CASA Conference in Atlanta on Aug. 24.