Photo courtesy of SAMANTHA DOWELL, Harney County Circuit Court Trial Court Administrator

Harney County CASA volunteers and Judge Rob Raschio following the swearing in of Jamie Perry as the newest advocate. From L-R: Sandy Volle, Virginia Smith, Brian Bowman, Maranda Calkins, Judge Raschio, Diane Ashton-Rollins, Jamie Perry, Ramona Revak, Marcie Colahan, and Tim Colahan.

On Nov. 7, Judge Rob Raschio swore in Jamie Perry as the newest Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for the CASA of Eastern Oregon program.

“The CASA program is essential to ensuring children are safe. Ms. Perry’s life experience will serve our children well and make sure the Department of Human Services is providing essential services to children and their families,” Raschio said. “We had a great meeting of all our current Harney County CASAs, and I am so proud that Harney County has produced so many exceptional volunteers. In our meeting, we discussed improving outcomes for children and achieving quicker resolutions to cases providing permanency.”

He added, “Pictured are some of our volunteers. If you see them, thank them for serving our community.”

Perry said, “Through my life experiences, I have found a passion to help children and families stay connected. I believe they deserve a positive and healthy future. CASA has an important role in this, and it’s important to me to be a part of this need for children and their families.”

Raschio concluded, “I am beyond impressed by the support that has been shown for CASA in our little community. Many people have heard the need to support children in the foster system and have stepped up to volunteer their time and energy. I get overly excited each time we have a new volunteer swear in, as I know that one more voice will be heard, and more children will be supported throughout the process. I have a really great team of CASA volunteers and appreciate each and every one of them.”

More advocates are needed from all walks of life. If you wish to ensure children are safe — and families are receiving the necessary services — consider becoming a CASA volunteer. All you need is a commitment to families and children. CASA will provide all the training and continued support necessary for you to see your commitment through.

Please contact Maranda Calkins at harney@casaeo.org or (541) 620-8824. The next training begins Jan. 10, 2023.