CASA EXPANDS

4/28/25

Second Circuit Chief Judge Melissa Morgan announced the regionalization and merger of CASA of Franklin and Hamilton Counties with CASA of Effingham County and CASA of South Central to form the new CASA for Kids.

CASA for Kids provides court-appointed volunteer advocacy for children who have experienced abuse or neglect in the counties assigned to in the Second and Fourth Judicial Circuit Courts.

CASA for Kids Executive Director Mariah Hayes explained the merger stating, “CASA of Franklin and Hamilton began steps towards regionalization in the summer of 2024 to merge with CASA of Effingham County including their program's expansion into Clay, Fayette and Jasper counties and CASA of South Central, serving Clinton and Marion counties.  Final documentation of the full merger was completed in December 2024, and the program is now CASA for Kids.  The Second Judicial Circuit Expansion under the guidance and support of Chief Judge Melissa Morgan and expansion funding through IL CASA has allowed us to expand to three additional counties in the Second Circuit.”

The board of directors believe regionalization allows the CASA mission to be done efficiently and effectively while maximizing resources and best supporting the staff and dedicated volunteers across downstate Illinois.  Chief Judge Morgan expressed her thoughts stating, “The expansion into White County in January 2025, followed by the upcoming initiation of programming into Edwards and Wayne Counties exemplifies the program’s top priority of serving more children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect, specifically in rural Illinois. I have worked with CASA of Franklin and Hamilton for years and I am excited to work alongside them as CASA for Kids now.  This expansion moves us one step closer to ensuring that every child in our juvenile court system has a voice, no matter where they live.” 

Director of Programs Tina Casillas also added, “I am extremely excited for our expansion into additional counties.  This growth allows CASA to serve even more children and families who need our support.  Children are our future, and it truly takes a village.  We’re grateful to our partners, volunteers, and community members who make this mission possible.  Together, we’re building stronger and safer futures for the children we serve.”  For more information on how to serve as a CASA volunteer or how to support your local CASA program, please contact CASA for Kids at casa4change.org.

Pictured (L-R): Amanda Weber - Program Director Hamilton and White Counties, Marci Glover - Program Director Franklin County, Tina Casillas- Director of Programs, Second Judicial Circuit Melissa Morgan, and Mariah Hayes - Executive Director, CASA for Kids.